Pekingese
Summary
The Pekingese is one of the oldest and most revered dogs of imperial China, where it was considered sacred and exclusive to the imperial family of the Tang Dynasty. Legend says that the Pekingese descends from a lion that was reduced in size by a Buddha, preserving the lion's courage in a small dog's body. It was introduced to the West in 1860, when British and French troops sacked the Summer Palace in Beijing and brought specimens back to Europe as war trophies.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 15–25 cm
- Height (female)
- 15–23 cm
- Weight (male)
- 6.4 kg
- Weight (female)
- 6.4 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Double — thick undercoat and long, straight, hard outer coat; very pronounced "mane" around the neck and shoulders
- Common Colors
- All colors are accepted — fawn, red, cream, white, black, black and tan, sable, brindle, and parti-color
Temperament & Personality
The Pekingese is a dog with a very independent and dignified personality — never subservient, always proud. It is loyal and affectionate with those it knows well, but highly reserved with strangers. It has a remarkable determination and a self-confidence rarely seen in such small dogs. It is not a dog for those who want an obedient and malleable companion — the Pekingese has its own agenda. With consistent training and patience, it can be an extraordinarily loyal companion.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Low
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 20 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Moderate to heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (mild)
- Eye problems
- Heart problems (murmurs)
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Skin fold dermatitis
- Recommended Health Tests
- Airway evaluation
- Eye examination
- Orthopedic exam (spine)
Compatibility
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
