Pekingese

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Pekingese originated in China and were bred to be companions as they used to be highly respected in Chinese culture. Bred in Beijing, this little dog was known for its incredible sentimentality to the Chinese. They were thought of as dogs that would rid the world of evil spirits and were considered almighty to the Chinese, so much so that when royalty died, their dogs were killed in a sacrificial ceremony in hopes to protect their master in the next life.

This breed has a pushed in face like that of a pugs, small floppy ears and a body longer than they are tall. Their tail is a loose curl that touches their back and their legs are short but sturdy. The coat is long and thick making the Pekingese resembles a tiny lion, which is prominent in large amounts of Chinese artwork done on these dogs.

This breed is known well for their courage and strong bond with their master. They are stubborn and can be aggressive towards other dogs but have a bold independent attitude that gives them their notoriously popular personality.

Color

The Pekingese can come in any color, but most common colors are red, tan, and black.

Coat

The Pekinese has a long, thick coat that is needed for cold climates. The fur on their tail is silky and cascades into the tight curl that touches their back. This breeds fur is straight and is fringed on the legs, ears, tail and underbelly giving them a rugged 'lion' look.

Personality

The Pekingese is a stubborn little dog that will only have his way. They have been known to stop eating to prove to their owner who the boss is! Despite this trait they are the most affectionate and loving dogs anyone will meet. They have a rare undying love for their owners that only gets stronger with time. They are a small breed but act as if they weigh 100 lbs rather than 10 lbs. The Pekingese love people once they get to know them. They are reserved around strangers but this is only until they create a bond. This dog will make a great family pet if the children are much older because this breed don't like to be roughhoused with. For the most part, the Pekingese will get along okay with other dogs but can become aggressive which is due to their stubbornness as a breed. They will do well with other family pets as long as the owner shows equal attention to everyone.

Care

This breed has a long coat that will need daily brushing and monthly trimming. Bathes should be given every couple of months or when the owner finds this necessary. When brushing this dog, special attention should go to the fur on their hind legs as this can tangle very easily. The Pekingese is prone to breathing problems which is due to their pushed in faces, eye ulcers, dislocated kneecaps, and difficult labor. These dogs are small but they have large heads which can pose as a disadvantage when giving birth.

Training

This breed will need to start training the day they are brought home. Their stubborn attitude will pose as a difficulty to completely obedience train them as they will always have a 'my way or the highway' attitude. Firm training with small sessions and constant repetitive commands will keep this dog on track.

Activity

This breed will need a brisk walk once per day. They tire themselves out on a daily basis just playing and exploring their space so not to much exercise will be needed. This dog will do well in an apartment as they don't take up much space due to their tiny size. A backyard is not needed just as long as their owner can commit to about half an hour per day of walking or time spent in an off-leash park.