PEKINGESE

Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Regal in Manner
Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: up to 14 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Group: Toy Group 

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

Pekingese dogs were bred for centuries to be the cherished companions of the imperial family of China. Today they’re still cherished family companions and show dogs who greet everyone they meet with dignity and grace.

The Peke is an adaptable dog who can live with just about anybody, including apartment dwellers and novice pet parents. However, they have a tendency to bark, which neighbors might not be too thrilled about. They also tend to stick to one human caretaker most of all. Children may injure them during rough play, so they’re best suited to homes with teens and adults.

The dignified Pekingese is endearing but sometimes exasperating. As befits a dog of his imperial stature, he can be stubborn about getting his own way. And who can blame him? If you can’t have the palace and the servants waiting on you hand and foot, you should at least get what you want in the way of treats and the best spot on the sofa.

Pekes don’t always get along with other dogs. They prefer the company of other Pekingese, and it can take them a long time to get used to other animals in the household. With proper socialization early exposure to many different people, other animals, sights, sounds, and experiences. However, they can become best friends with other dogs and cats and include them in their royal group. Until you’re sure everyone gets along, though, supervise any active play. The Peke’s round, protuberant eyes are easily injured with the swipe of a paw or claw.

The profuse coat of the Pekingese needs daily to weekly care. The long, flowing coat of the show dog needs daily maintenance, but people who have companion Pekingese can choose to keep their pets’ coats trimmed short to ease the burden of grooming.

If you are looking for a devoted, loving friend who will treat you with respect and dignity and expect the same treatment from you, then the Pekingese may be a breed to consider. They need someone who understands their unique needs and who is willing to make room for a truly individual personality in their lives. The Pekingese will return your care with all the love and affection that a truly large heart in a small package can offer.

PERSONALITY

The Peke may be a toy breed in size, but he’s far from being pretty, dainty, or delicate. This is an independent dog with a regal nature, but he deigns to be affectionate and fun-loving within his family. Strangers, depending on how the Peke feels about them, will receive a welcome that ranges from aloof to affable. With cats, Pekes are polite, recognizing them as fellow royals. They are likely to get along with other dogs, as long as their supremacy is acknowledged.

FEEDING

Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. 

HEALTH

As with all short-faced breeds, it is important to choose a Pekingese with wide-open nostrils on a moderate-sized nose. Because Pekingese don’t have a long muzzle to act as a natural barrier of protection for the eyes, it is important to ensure that your environment is safe for your Peke and that nothing can jab or irritate his eyes. Pekingese appreciate cold temperatures, and therefore some owners travel with their Pekes on frozen ice packs, or an ice pillow, even for rides in the car, which provides a level of comfort that Pekingese thoroughly enjoy. Working with a responsible breeder, those wishing to own a Peke can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. Good breeders utilize health testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies.

CARE

Pekingese make good apartment dogs, and of course they’ll be equally happy in a mansion. They love to run and romp but need a fenced area because they will explore and may wander off. Pekingese appreciate going for walks and will be excellent company jaunting through the neighborhood with you. They will run around the house, especially with another Peke or other dog. Despite their heavy coat, Pekingese are housedogs and should not live outdoors. Their short noses make them sensitive to heat, so they need to live in an air-conditioned environment.

Pekes are stubborn and can be difficult to train. They won’t respond at all to harsh corrections or training methods. Reward them any time they do something you like, and be creative in persuading them that what you want them to do is their idea and worth their while.

GROOMING

The thick double coat of the Pekingese requires a good bit of maintenance. Pekingese shed seasonally. Brushing him at least one hour per week will help to remove loose hairs and prevent matting, and an occasional bath will help to keep him looking his best. Mats or tangles can be gently worked out with a slicker brush or metal comb. As with all breeds, the nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort.

SOME PICTURE ABOUT THIS BREED

Source: dogtime, akc, vetstreet.