Pekingese Overview

The Chinese fluffball known as the Pekingese is a breed that screams royalty. Immensely stubborn but equally high in personality, this dog certainly is not for everyone. 

A foreshortened nose opens the door for health difficulties, especially breathing problems, and it goes without saying that its coat is high maintenance. Owners should expect to wield a large grooming brush daily to prevent the dog’s long coat from picking up dirt and causing skin problems. 

Finally, their overall build and purpose does not allow for an active lifestyle, so exercise enthusiasts will be less than impressed with this breed. The Pekingese is a strong-willed little lapdog that is built well for an affectionate family with little room and enough time to groom.

Pekingese History

It is accurate to say the Pekingese is one of the oldest breeds of dog. Highly favored for reasons of royalty and spirituality, this breed is represented in sculptures and idols that date back to the infancy of Imperial China. Theft of a “Lion Dog” from a royal court was punishable by death. 

These dogs arrived in Europe due to the looting of temples by British soldiers in the mid-1800s. Stories speak of the bodies of these dogs strewn about the temples, for they were too highly regarded to allow theft. In less than 40 years time, the Pekingese traveled out of China into Europe, then to the Americas, where they were accepted into the AKC in 1906.  

Pekingese Character

The Pekingese is definitely not a dog that will embarrass its owner. As regal as it looks, this dog enjoys posturing and showing off its elegance and intelligence more than most other breeds. 

Ironically, they are very difficult to train because of this. While some have performed in obedience competitions, most Pekingeses need a really good reason to listen to their owner. Harsh training will get the handler nowhere, for the key to this dog’s obedience is appealing to its pride. If it feels like it should show off what it has learned, it will be eager to learn more. 

Pekes are ideal for both families and singles, for they usually single out people for attachment. Small children may not be the best however, for they typically lack the finesse and care needed to handle such a small dog. 

Pekes get along famously with other dogs, but their small bodies make them prone to crushing. The trick to being happy with a Pekingese is to acknowledge its dignity and sometimes humor its high self-esteem. If successful, this little dog will treat its owner like royalty.

Pekingese Care

The Pekingese requires diligent daily brushing to prevent tangles, knots, and mats. They need to be dry shampooed regularly. Their faces and eyes must be cleaned daily with a damp, soft cloth. They do not tolerate warm or damp climates, and become over-heated or chilled quite quickly. The Peke is prone to breathing problems, eye problems, herniated disc, and dislocated kneecaps. Special care must be given to not overfeed as they gain weight easily.

Pekingese Training

The Pekingese may be difficult to train due to their stoic nature. The crate method is recommended for housebreaking. They will not respond to a harsh, loud, or overly bossy master. They respond best to gentle, consistent, and patient guidance. The Peke requires short sessions of basic obedience and socialization.

Pekingese Health

Common Health Issues for the Pekingese:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Pekingese:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Pekingese Resources