Pekingese: A Comprehensive Guide
The Pekingese, a small yet noble dog breed, is renowned for its royal heritage and distinctive appearance. Originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty, Pekingese dogs have long been cherished for their regal demeanor and luxurious coats. Despite their small size, these toy dogs possess a lion-like bravery and a deep devotion to their owners. The Pekingese combines elegance with a charming personality, making them a beloved companion for those who appreciate their unique qualities.
History of the Pekingese
The history of the Pekingese dog breed is deeply intertwined with Chinese culture and royalty. Dating back over 2,000 years, the Pekingese was bred to be a companion to Chinese emperors and their families. Legend has it that these small, lion-like dogs were believed to ward off evil spirits and were considered sacred animals in the imperial courts.
Pekingese dogs were so highly valued that they were often pampered and carried in the sleeves of royal garments, leading to their nickname, «Sleeve Dogs.» The breed’s association with royalty was so strong that for centuries, only members of the Chinese imperial family were allowed to own Pekingese dogs.
In 1860, during the Second Opium War, British soldiers discovered Pekingese dogs in the Imperial Palace and brought a few back to England as gifts for Queen Victoria. This marked the beginning of the breed’s introduction to the Western world, where it quickly gained popularity for its exotic appearance and royal lineage. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Pekingese in 1906, further establishing its status as a beloved toy breed.
Physical Characteristics of the Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are small and compact, with a sturdy build that belies their diminutive size. Males typically stand between 6 to 9 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 8 to 14 pounds, while females are slightly smaller and lighter. Despite their size, Pekingese dogs have a presence that commands attention.
One of the most distinctive Pekingese characteristics is their luxurious double coat, which is long, flowing, and often described as «lion-like.» The coat comes in various colors, including gold, red, sable, black, and cream, often with a black mask. Their coat requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty and prevent matting.
Pekingese have a broad, flat face with a short muzzle, large, dark, round eyes, and a distinctive «smushed» appearance. Their ears are heart-shaped and set high on the head, often blending into the long mane of fur that frames their face. The breed’s tail is also covered in long hair and is typically carried high, arching over the back.
The Pekingese’s overall appearance is one of dignity and grace, with an expression that reflects both their intelligence and noble heritage.
Temperament and Personality
The Pekingese temperament is marked by its bravery, loyalty, and independent spirit. These small dogs have a big personality, often described as «lion-hearted» despite their size. They are deeply devoted to their owners and form strong bonds, making them excellent companions for those who appreciate their affectionate yet somewhat aloof nature.
Pekingese dogs are known for their regal demeanor and can sometimes appear aloof or reserved, especially with strangers. However, once they trust someone, they are incredibly loving and loyal, often following their favorite person around the house like a shadow. Their devotion to their owners is unparalleled, and they thrive on close, personal connections.
Despite their affectionate nature, Pekingese dogs also have an independent streak. They are not overly demanding but do enjoy their space and can be quite content to spend time alone or lounging in a quiet spot. This independence can sometimes translate into stubbornness, making training a bit of a challenge. However, with patience and positive reinforcement, Pekingese dogs can be trained to follow commands and exhibit good manners.
One of the most endearing aspects of the Pekingese personality is their love of comfort. They enjoy the finer things in life, often preferring to nap on a plush cushion or snuggle up in a warm lap. This breed is well-suited for a quiet, peaceful household where they can be the center of attention and enjoy a life of pampering.
Health and Common Issues
Like all dog breeds, Pekingese dogs are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common Pekingese health issues include:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome: Due to their flat faces, Pekingese dogs are prone to breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid conditions. This condition, known as brachycephalic syndrome, can lead to snoring, noisy breathing, and, in severe cases, respiratory distress.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Pekingese dogs have a long spine relative to their body size, which can make them prone to spinal issues such as IVDD. This condition can cause pain, difficulty walking, and, in severe cases, paralysis.
- Eye Problems: The Pekingese’s large, prominent eyes are susceptible to a range of issues, including corneal ulcers, dry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular eye check-ups and proper care are essential to prevent these problems.
- Patellar Luxation: This condition occurs when the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and mobility issues. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem.
- Heart Issues: Pekingese dogs are prone to certain cardiac conditions, including mitral valve disease, which can lead to heart failure if not managed properly.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are essential to keep Pekingese dogs healthy and to manage potential health issues early on. Responsible breeders also perform genetic testing on their breeding dogs to reduce the risk of passing on hereditary conditions.
Care and Maintenance
Pekingese care involves regular grooming, exercise, and mental stimulation. Their long, flowing coats require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles, especially around the ears, chest, and tail. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every few weeks, to keep their coat clean and healthy. After bathing, it’s important to thoroughly dry their coat to prevent skin issues.
Dental care is particularly important for Pekingese dogs due to their small mouths and crowded teeth, which can make them prone to dental disease. Brushing their teeth several times a week is recommended to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also essential aspects of Pekingese care to prevent infections and maintain overall hygiene.
Given their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, Pekingese dogs can be sensitive to heat and should be kept cool in hot weather. They are best suited to a calm indoor environment where they can relax in comfort.
Providing mental stimulation is crucial for Pekingese dogs, as they are intelligent and can become bored easily. Engaging them in activities such as puzzle toys, short training sessions, and interactive play can help keep their minds sharp and prevent behavioral issues.
Training Your Pekingese
Training a Pekingese requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques. Due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature, Pekingese dogs may take longer to train compared to other breeds. However, they are intelligent and can learn quickly when motivated by praise, treats, and gentle encouragement.
Early socialization is crucial to ensure that your Pekingese develops into a well-mannered and confident adult. Exposing them to different people, environments, and other animals from a young age can help them become more adaptable and less wary of new experiences.
It’s important to keep training sessions short and engaging, as Pekingese dogs can lose interest if sessions are too long or repetitive. Using a calm and patient approach, combined with positive reinforcement, will help you build a strong bond with your Pekingese and make training a more enjoyable experience for both of you.
Exercise Needs
Pekingese dogs have moderate exercise needs and require regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. While they are not as active as some larger breeds, they still enjoy daily walks, playtime, and interactive games. Short, gentle walks around the neighborhood or in a garden are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs.
Given their brachycephalic structure, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise, especially in hot or humid weather, as they can easily overheat. Instead, focus on providing low-impact activities that allow them to move at their own pace.
Indoor playtime is also beneficial for Pekingese dogs, as they enjoy playing with toys and engaging in interactive games with their owners. Despite their small size, they have a playful and curious nature that can be satisfied with a variety of mentally stimulating activities.
Pekingese Puppies: What to Expect
Bringing home a Pekingese puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience. Pekingese puppies are known for their playful and affectionate nature, and they quickly become the center of attention in any household. It’s important to provide them with a safe and stimulating environment to explore and learn.
Early socialization is key to helping your Pekingese puppy develop into a well-adjusted and confident adult. Introducing them to different people, environments, and other animals from a young age will help them become more adaptable and less shy around new experiences.
Pekingese puppies require a lot of attention and guidance. Establishing a consistent routine for feeding, training, and playtime can help them feel secure and understand what is expected of them. Puppy-proofing your home and providing plenty of chew toys can also prevent destructive behavior during the teething phase.
Feeding Pekingese: Puppy, Adult, and Senior Diets
Proper nutrition is vital for the health and development of Pekingese dogs at every stage of life.
- Puppies: Pekingese puppies require a diet rich in protein and fat to support their rapid growth and energy needs. High-quality puppy food that meets their nutritional requirements is essential. Look for formulas with real meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers like corn and soy.
- Adults: Adult Pekingese dogs benefit from a balanced diet that provides the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It’s important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake based on their activity level to prevent obesity. High-quality dry kibble, supplemented with lean meats, vegetables, and grains, can ensure they get the nutrients they need.
- Seniors: Senior Pekingese dogs may require a diet lower in calories but still rich in nutrients to support their aging bodies. Foods formulated for senior dogs often contain joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain mobility. Additionally, easily digestible proteins and fibers can promote healthy digestion.
Providing fresh water at all times and feeding them at consistent times each day can help maintain their overall health and well-being.
Behavior with Children and Other Dog Breeds
Pekingese dogs can be wonderful companions for children and other pets when properly socialized. Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them well-suited for families with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with small dogs. However, due to their small size, Pekingese dogs should be handled with care, and interactions with very young children should be supervised to prevent accidental injury.
With other dogs, Pekingese dogs are generally sociable and enjoy companionship, especially if they are raised together. They can get along well with other pets in the household, including cats, as long as they are properly introduced and socialized from a young age.
However, Pekingese dogs can sometimes display a strong sense of independence and may prefer to be the center of attention. It’s important to monitor their interactions with other pets to ensure that everyone coexists peacefully and that the Pekingese doesn’t feel overwhelmed or left out.
Ideal Environment for Their Development
Pekingese dogs thrive in environments where they can receive plenty of attention, affection, and mental stimulation. They are well-suited for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs, but they also enjoy having access to a secure, fenced yard where they can explore and play.
These dogs are happiest in a calm, peaceful household where they can be the center of attention. They are not well-suited for homes with a lot of chaos or loud noise, as they prefer a more serene environment. Pekingese dogs enjoy lounging in comfortable spots around the house, whether it’s on a plush cushion or in their owner’s lap.
Given their sensitivity to heat and humidity, Pekingese dogs should be kept in a cool, air-conditioned environment during hot weather. They are prone to overheating due to their brachycephalic structure, so it’s important to monitor their activity levels and provide plenty of water to keep them hydrated.
Breed Standards According to the AKC
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the breed standard for Pekingese emphasizes a small, compact, and well-balanced dog with a dignified and regal demeanor. Key characteristics of the Pekingese include:
- Head: Large and broad, with a flat face and a well-defined stop. The muzzle is short, wide, and slightly upturned, giving the breed its distinctive «smushed» appearance.
- Eyes: Large, dark, round, and set wide apart, giving the breed an alert and expressive expression.
- Ears: Heart-shaped, set high on the head, and covered with long, flowing hair that blends into the mane.
- Body: Compact and sturdy, with a broad chest, short legs, and a level topline. The body is slightly longer than it is tall.
- Coat: Long, flowing double coat with a thick undercoat and a straight, coarse outer coat. The coat is typically longer around the neck and shoulders, forming a «mane» that gives the breed its lion-like appearance.
- Tail: Set high and carried over the back, covered with long, flowing hair.
- Color: The coat can come in various colors, including gold, red, sable, black, cream, and combinations thereof.
The Pekingese should exhibit a proud and dignified carriage, reflecting its heritage as a companion to Chinese royalty. Despite its small size, the Pekingese should have a sturdy and substantial build, with an overall appearance that exudes both elegance and strength.
The Best Role for the Pekingese
The Pekingese is best suited for roles that leverage its affectionate, loyal, and dignified nature. Historically, Pekingese dogs were bred to be companions to Chinese royalty, and they continue to excel in this role as devoted and loving companions for modern families.
Pekingese dogs thrive as indoor pets, where they can enjoy the comfort and security of their home environment. Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them ideal for apartment living, while their love of companionship makes them excellent lap dogs.
Due to their strong bond with their owners and their protective instincts, Pekingese dogs can also serve as effective watchdogs, alerting their owners to any unusual activity. However, they are not aggressive by nature and are more likely to bark to signal a potential threat than to confront it.
For families or individuals looking for a loving, loyal, and low-maintenance companion, the Pekingese is an ideal choice. Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them well-suited for households where they can be the center of attention and enjoy a life of comfort and pampering.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is a Pekingese a good family dog?
- Yes, Pekingese can make excellent family dogs for households with older children and adults who can provide them with attention, affection, and gentle handling. They are loyal, affectionate, and protective companions.
Are Pekingese high maintenance dogs?
- Yes, Pekingese are considered high maintenance dogs due to their profuse double coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. They also need regular veterinary care, dental care, exercise, and attention to their health and well-being.
Can Pekingese stay home alone?
- Pekingese may be able to stay home alone for short periods, but they thrive on companionship and may become anxious or bored if left alone for extended periods. They prefer to be close to their families and may benefit from having a companion or a pet sitter when left alone.
Are Pekingese hard to train?
- Pekingese are intelligent dogs but may have a stubborn streak, which can make training challenging at times. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques are key to successful training with this breed.
How big does a Pekingese get?
- Pekingese typically weigh between 7 to 14 pounds and stand around 6 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.
How often do you bathe a Pekingese?
- Pekingese do not require frequent baths unless they get dirty or smelly. Generally, bathing them every 4 to 6 weeks is sufficient to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Do Pekingese need haircuts?
- While Pekingese do not need haircuts in the same way that some other breeds do, their profuse double coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Trimming the hair around their eyes, ears, and feet may be necessary to maintain their appearance and hygiene. Professional grooming may also be required periodically to keep their coat in top condition.