The Complete Pekingese Guide: History, Temperament, Care and More
The Pekingese, an ancient toy breed with a distinctly regal bearing, has captivated dog lovers for over two thousand years. Originally bred as companion dogs for Chinese imperial family members, these small but mighty dogs continue to charm their way into hearts worldwide with their distinctive appearance and confident personalities.
Known affectionately as “Pekes,” these compact canines combine a dignified demeanor with a loving disposition, making them sought-after companion animals for those seeking a dog with character and historical significance. This comprehensive guide will explore everything prospective and current Pekingese owners need to know about this fascinating breed.
History and Origins of the Pekingese
The Pekingese’s history is deeply intertwined with Chinese imperial history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). These dogs were considered sacred in ancient China and were exclusively owned by members of the Chinese Imperial Palace, where they were treated as royal companions and given their own servants.
Legend has it that the Pekingese was created by the Buddha, who shrunk a lion down to dog size. While this is mythology, it speaks to the breed’s importance in Chinese culture. The dogs were so valued that anyone caught stealing a Pekingese could face death. They remained exclusively in Chinese possession until 1860, when British forces entered Peking (now Beijing) during the Second Opium War.
The breed’s introduction to the Western world occurred when British soldiers found five Pekingese dogs in the Imperial Palace. These dogs were brought back to England, where one was presented to Queen Victoria, who named it “Looty.” This marked the beginning of the breed’s popularity in Europe and, subsequently, throughout the world.
Physical Characteristics and Breed Standards
The Pekingese is immediately recognizable by its distinctive flat face, large round eyes, and abundant coat. According to breed standards, adult Pekes typically weigh between 7 and 14 pounds, with an ideal weight of 10 pounds. Despite their small size, they possess a surprisingly sturdy and well-built frame beneath their luxurious coat.
Their most striking feature is their flat face (brachycephalic), which is complemented by a broad head and wrinkled muzzle. The breed standard calls for a coat that includes a long, coarse outer layer and a thick, soft undercoat. This combination creates their distinctive lion-like mane around the neck and shoulders. Colors can range from golden to red, black, white, cream, sable, and various combinations thereof.
The Pekingese’s body is characterized by a compact, low-to-ground structure with a broad chest and slightly bowed front legs. Their unique “rolling” gait is considered a breed characteristic and results from their distinctive body structure. Despite their small stature, they carry themselves with remarkable dignity and presence.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Pekingese dogs are known for their independent, dignified, and sometimes stubborn nature. They retain much of their royal heritage in their personality, often displaying a self-important attitude that can be both amusing and challenging for their owners. Despite their small size, they are fearless and often unaware of their diminutive stature when confronting larger dogs.
While deeply affectionate with their chosen family members, Pekes tend to be reserved with strangers. This makes them excellent watchdogs, as they will alert their owners to any unusual activity. However, they are not typically aggressive unless provoked, preferring to maintain a dignified distance from those they don’t know.
Intelligence is a notable trait in the breed, though their independent nature can sometimes be mistaken for stubbornness. They form strong bonds with their owners but maintain a sense of self-sufficiency that sets them apart from more dependent dog breeds. This combination of intelligence and independence requires owners to approach training with patience and consistency.
Exercise Requirements and Physical Activity
Despite their small size and regal bearing, Pekingese dogs do require regular exercise to maintain good health. However, their exercise needs are moderate compared to more athletic breeds. A daily walk of 20-30 minutes, combined with short play sessions throughout the day, is typically sufficient to keep them healthy and content.
It’s crucial to note that Pekingese are brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs, which can make them prone to breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather. Exercise should be monitored carefully during warm weather, and activities should be scheduled during cooler parts of the day. Owners should watch for signs of overexertion, such as excessive panting or struggling to breathe.
Indoor play can be an excellent form of exercise for Pekingese. They enjoy gentle games and toys that stimulate their minds as well as their bodies. However, avoid high-impact activities or exercises that might strain their backs or joints, as their unique body structure makes them susceptible to certain physical stresses.
Training and Socialization
Training a Pekingese requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their unique personality. Their independent nature means they may not be as eager to please as some other breeds. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. This should include exposure to different people, environments, and situations during their formative weeks and months.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed. Harsh corrections or negative training methods can damage their confident spirit and lead to stubbornness or defensive behaviors. Short, engaging training sessions that incorporate rewards and praise will yield the best results. Remember that Pekingese have a strong sense of dignity, and training should respect this aspect of their character.
House training can be challenging with Pekingese, and owners should be prepared for a potentially lengthy process. Consistency and patience are key, as is establishing a regular routine. Crate training can be particularly effective, as these dogs naturally prefer clean living spaces.
Grooming and Maintenance
The Pekingese’s luxurious double coat requires significant grooming attention to maintain its health and appearance. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangling, with special attention needed for the longer fur around the neck and chest. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks can help maintain the coat’s condition and manage its length.
Regular attention must be paid to the facial folds characteristic of the breed. These areas should be cleaned and dried thoroughly to prevent skin infections. The eyes also require daily checking and gentle cleaning to remove any discharge and prevent irritation. Nail trimming should be performed regularly, typically every 2-3 weeks, as their relatively inactive lifestyle may not naturally wear down their nails.
Dental hygiene is particularly important for this breed, as small dogs are prone to dental issues. Regular tooth brushing (ideally daily) and professional dental cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian are essential for maintaining good oral health.
Health Considerations and Veterinary Care
As a brachycephalic breed, Pekingese are prone to several health issues related to their facial structure. Breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or during exercise, are common concerns. They may also experience problems with their eyes due to their prominent position, including corneal ulcers and dry eye syndrome.
Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) is another significant health concern due to their long back and short legs. Owners should prevent their Pekingese from jumping from heights and use ramps for accessing furniture or cars. Heart problems, including mitral valve disease, can also affect the breed, making regular cardiac check-ups important.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring these potential health issues. A good relationship with a veterinarian who is experienced with brachycephalic breeds can help ensure proper care and early detection of any problems. The average lifespan of a Pekingese is 12-14 years with proper care.
Nutrition and Feeding Guidelines
Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining a healthy Pekingese. Due to their small size and relatively low activity level, they require carefully measured portions to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate breathing problems and put additional stress on their joints. High-quality dog food appropriate for small breeds and the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) should form the basis of their diet.
Feeding should be divided into two or three meals per day rather than free-feeding, which can lead to overeating. Fresh water should always be available, but owners should monitor drinking habits as excessive thirst can indicate health issues. Some Pekingese may benefit from specialized diets, particularly if they show signs of food sensitivities or allergies.
Family Life and Compatibility
Pekingese can make wonderful family companions in the right environment. They typically bond strongly with their primary caregiver but can be affectionate with all family members. However, they may not be the best choice for families with very young children, as they can be intolerant of rough handling and may snap if startled or annoyed.
These dogs adapt well to apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. They can coexist with other pets when properly socialized, though they may try to assert themselves despite their small stature. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, but they should be trained early to prevent excessive barking.
Ideal for singles, seniors, or families with older children, Pekingese offer devoted companionship while maintaining their independent spirit. They do well in quiet households where they can receive the attention and care they need without being overwhelmed by too much activity.
Conclusion
The Pekingese is a unique and fascinating breed that combines royal heritage with devoted companionship. While they require significant grooming attention and careful health monitoring, their loyalty, dignity, and charm make them wonderful pets for the right owners.
Potential owners should carefully consider the breed’s specific needs and characteristics before making a commitment. With proper care, training, and attention, a Pekingese can be a loving and rewarding companion for many years, bringing their distinctive personality and regal presence into their owner’s life.
Sources and References
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – Breed Standard and Information
- The Kennel Club UK – Breed Information Centre
- Veterinary Partner – Clinical Resources and Health Information
- VCA Hospitals – Pet Health Library