Introducing the Pekingese
Find out everything you need to know about the Pekingese: its characteristics, its behavior, its education, its price.
The Pekingese
The Pekingese, a regal and dignified companion
The Pekingese, with its lion-like mane and dignified expression, has a rich history dating back to ancient China. Once considered sacred and reserved for royalty, the Pekingese is now a beloved companion dog worldwide. Known for their bravery and strong will, these small dogs have a personality much larger than their size. Whether it's providing companionship or showing off in the show ring, the Pekingese excels in many areas. Loyal and affectionate, Pekingese dogs are known for forming strong bonds with their families and displaying a charming sociability.
PEKINGESE FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Pekingese breed.
Group
The Pekingese belongs to the toy group, known for small, friendly companion dogs. These dogs are bred for companionship and exhibit a loyal and affectionate temperament.
Size
The Pekingese is a small dog, typically measuring 6 to 9 inches at the withers and weighing 8 to 14 pounds.
Coat length
Pekingese have a long, double-layered coat. The outer coat is coarse and straight, while the undercoat is soft and dense.
Coat color
Pekingese coats can vary from gold to red, sable, and black, with various shades within these colors.
Living environment
Pekingese adapt well to apartment living and thrive on close companionship with their owners.
Sociability
Pekingese are friendly and affectionate with their families. They can get along well with children and other pets, though they may be reserved with strangers.
Health
Pekingese are generally healthy but can have respiratory issues due to their flat faces, as well as eye conditions and joint problems.
Training
The Pekingese is independent and proud, making training challenging. Patience and positive reinforcement are essential, with kindness and consistency being key.
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Physical characteristics
The Pekingese, the regal lapdog
The Pekingese is a small, well-balanced dog with a distinctive lion-like mane and a dignified expression. Its coat is long and flowing, often seen in shades of gold, red, sable, and black, with a prominent flat face that gives it a unique appearance.
Size and weight of the Pekingese
Pekingese are petite dogs. Females typically stand between 6 to 9 inches, while males also range from 6 to 9 inches in height. Females usually weigh between 8 to 12 pounds, and males weigh between 10 to 14 pounds. Pekingese puppies grow steadily, reaching their full size and weight by about one year of age.
The coat of the Pekingese
Coat length
Pekingese have a luxurious, long coat with a coarse, straight outer layer and a soft, dense undercoat. The fur forms a lion-like mane around the neck and has longer fringes on the ears, tail, and the back of the legs, giving it a majestic appearance.
Coat color
The Pekingese's coat comes in a wide range of colors, including gold, red, sable, black, and sometimes white. These colors can have various shades, making each Pekingese unique in its coloration.
Coat care
The Pekingese's double-layered coat requires regular maintenance. They shed year-round, with more significant shedding in spring and autumn. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every few months.
Other characteristics of the Pekingese
Physical features
The Pekingese is a balanced, well-proportioned dog with a regal appearance. The head is broad and flat with a short, wrinkled muzzle. They have large, round, dark eyes and heart-shaped, high-set, feathered ears. The compact, sturdy body has a level topline and well-developed muscles, with a high-set tail carried over the back and covered in flowing hair.
Temperament & behavior
What is the temperament of the Pekingese?
Pekingese are known for their loyalty, independence, and affectionate nature. They are brave, dignified, and form strong bonds with their families.
Pekingese category
With over 400 dog breeds divided into 10 groups, the Pekingese belongs to the toy group. This group includes small companion dogs like Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Chihuahuas, known for their affectionate nature. Pekingese stand out for their regal bearing, intelligence, and loyalty, making them excellent companion dogs.
Behavior of the Pekingese
Loyal and independent companion
Pekingese are delightful and dignified dogs. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners, often forming strong bonds. These small dogs thrive with a present and attentive owner who can provide the love and attention they need to flourish. Despite their affectionate nature, Pekingese also have an independent streak that must be respected.
Sociable and friendly
Pekingese are sociable and generous dogs. They enjoy human companionship and generally get along well with people, including strangers. Pekingese can be great companions for children, thanks to their affectionate and gentle demeanor. However, it is essential to work on their social skills from a young age to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults.
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The Pekingese's living environment
Adaptable apartment dog
Pekingese can adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, houses, urban, and rural environments. Their small size makes them particularly suited for apartment living, but they thrive on the attention and presence of their owners. Pekingese need at least two walks a day, each lasting around 20 minutes, to keep them healthy and happy.
Exploring and satisfying curiosity
While adaptable, Pekingese benefit from having access to an outdoor space where they can satisfy their curiosity and expend energy. An environment that allows them to explore safely is ideal for their well-being.
Training the Pekingese
Intelligent but independent
The Pekingese is an intelligent breed that can learn commands quickly. However, their independent nature means training requires patience and consistency. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise works best. Given their small size and curiosity, equipping them with a GPS collar is advisable to prevent any accidental escapes or losses.
Attentive learners
Pekingese dogs can be attentive and responsive during training sessions, but their stubborn streak may require extra persistence. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop good behavior and social skills. With proper training, Pekingese can be well-behaved and delightful companions.
Health & nutrition
How to take care of the Pekingese
The Pekingese is generally a healthy breed but requires daily care to maintain its well-being. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and preventive veterinary care are essential to prevent diseases and infections.
The health of the Pekingese
Illnesses
Pekingese dogs generally enjoy good health, but they are prone to specific health issues due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure. Common problems include respiratory issues, eye conditions, and joint problems such as patellar luxation. Symptoms of these conditions can include difficulty breathing, excessive tearing, and limping. The typical lifespan of a Pekingese is between 12 and 14 years.
Routine care
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your Pekingese’s health. Ensure vaccinations, deworming, and parasite treatments are up-to-date. Daily care includes brushing the coat to prevent matting, cleaning the ears, dental care to prevent tartar buildup, and regular nail trimming. Be mindful of potential allergies and consult a vet for appropriate recommendations. The Pekingese is not a hypoallergenic breed.
Feeding the Pekingese
Daily requirements
Like all dogs, Pekingese have specific nutritional needs that must be met to maintain their vitality and strength. A balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins is essential for their overall health. Premium kibble specifically formulated for small breeds is recommended as it provides a balanced dietary foundation. If additional protein is needed, you can supplement their diet with lean white and red meat, but it's important to limit fats to avoid weight gain and other health issues.
Breeding or adoption & cost
What does a Pekingese cost?
The Pekingese is a well-regarded breed with several breeders available. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.
How to choose your Pekingese
Finding the right breeder
When choosing a Pekingese, select a reputable breeder. Visit the breeder's premises to check the living conditions and health of the dogs. Ensure transparency about the puppy's and parents' health.
Lastly, you must have your dog microchipped by the age of 8 weeks old and have their details registered on a relevant database like Petlog or Animal Tracker. This is a legal requirement in Great Britain and you could face a
fine if you don't comply. Your vet can microchip your dog for a small fee; alternatively, any Blue Cross center will do it for free.
The price of a Pekingese
The acquisition cost of a Pekingese can vary based on several factors. These factors include lineage, pedigree, the reputation of the breeder, and the age of the dog. Pekingese puppies generally cost between
and
Additionally, maintaining a Pekingese involves costs such as veterinary fees and food, estimated at around
to
annually.
Which dog breed is right for you?
Which dog breed is right for you?
Take the test to find out!
Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!
