There's nothing sadder than a tiny dog in a purse. That really has to be the lowest possible point in evolution. After all, if these yipping purse dogs were meant for anything else, we'd see wild packs of them taking down antelope during Discovery Channel's menacing "Chihuahua Week." Right? Well, there's more to the story. It turns out a lot of these ridiculous breeds were once designed for all manners of badassery. Advertisement

5 Pekingese Continue Reading Below Advertisement What They're Known For The Pekingese are recognizable by a snub-nosed muzzle that highlights their mopey stare. They are considered a willful breed, difficult to housebreak and train, but all of that is forgiven since they have inspired so many fine works of needlepoint: Their long coat and confident gait make them common dog show fodder. Running in that tiny ellipse is about all the exercise they need since their foreshortened muzzle makes them susceptible to heat exhaustion. The health problems don't stop there courtesy of suspect spines and infection-prone eyes. However, if you like bug-eyed dustbunnies that are prone to flatulence, this is the breed for you. Continue Reading Below Advertisement What They Should Be Known For That aforementioned stubborn streak and confidence was part of the breed standard for a good reason. On top of being a companion for emperors in Imperial China, the Pekingese served as personal guard dogs. The smallest, most ferocious ones were actually called "sleeves" because they could be carried inside large-sleeved garments to be unleashed for short-range attacks. Imagine it as a hairy canister of mace that didn't stop chewing on the eyes until commanded to do so. They were employed by kings and courtiers alike. They were known as Fu Lin, or the Lion Dog of China. Unfortunately for them, their size and cuteness factor were just too undeniable, even back then. They became known as an extravagant fashion accessory, matching their coats to specific wardrobes. At least that time around they were purses with a taste for blood. Continue Reading Below Advertisement