The Pekingese, with its distinctive lion-like mane and confident strut, is a breed that captures hearts and turns heads wherever it goes.
These compact canines may be small in stature, but they’re huge in personality and historical significance.
If you’ve ever wondered about the charm behind these pint-sized nobles, you’re in for a treat!
Let’s dive into the captivating world of the Pekingese and uncover why they’ve been treasured companions for centuries.
The Imperial Origins: From Chinese Palaces to Global Homes
The Pekingese boasts a lineage as impressive as its regal bearing.
These dogs were originally bred for Chinese royalty, earning them the nickname “Lion Dogs” due to their resemblance to Chinese guardian lions.
In fact, legend has it that Buddha himself shrunk a lion down to dog size, creating the Pekingese!
A Breed Fit for Emperors
- Exclusively owned by members of the Chinese Imperial court
- Stealing a Pekingese was once punishable by death
- First introduced to the Western world in 1860
As someone who’s had the privilege of interacting with these majestic little creatures, I can attest to their air of superiority.
My neighbor’s Pekingese, Emperor Puyi (named after the last Emperor of China), struts around the neighborhood as if he owns the place.
It’s hard not to smile at his confident waddle!
The Distinctive Pekingese Look: More Than Just a Pretty Face
When you think of a Pekingese, the first thing that probably comes to mind is their adorable, squished face.
But there’s so much more to their appearance that makes them unique.
Physical Characteristics:
- Compact, low-to-the-ground body
- Large, expressive eyes
- Distinctive “rolling” gait
- Long, flowing double coat
- Variety of colors including gold, red, sable, and black
Did you know that the Pekingese’s unique walk, often described as a “roll,” is due to their slightly bowed front legs?
This gives them a charming, almost regal swagger that’s impossible to resist.
Personality: The Heart of a Lion in a Toy-Sized Package
Don’t let their small size fool you – Pekingese have big personalities!
These dogs are known for their:
- Unwavering loyalty to their owners
- Independent and sometimes stubborn nature
- Dignified and self-important demeanor
- Affectionate and loving disposition with family
In my experience, Pekingese are the perfect example of the saying “it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”
My friend’s Pekingese, Lotus, once scared off a much larger dog who dared to approach her favorite toy.
The look of sheer determination on her tiny face was both hilarious and admirable!
Grooming: Maintaining that Royal Coat
One of the most striking features of the Pekingese is undoubtedly their luxurious coat.
However, with great beauty comes great responsibility.
Keeping a Pekingese looking its best requires dedication and regular grooming.
Grooming Tips:
- Brush daily to prevent matting and tangles
- Regular baths (every 3-4 weeks) to keep the coat clean and healthy
- Clean facial folds to prevent skin irritation
- Trim nails regularly
- Clean ears weekly to prevent infections
Pro tip: Invest in a good quality slicker brush and metal comb. Your Pekingese (and your furniture) will thank you!
Health Considerations: Caring for Your Royal Companion
Like all breeds, Pekingese have some specific health concerns that potential owners should be aware of:
- Brachycephalic syndrome (due to their flat faces)
- Eye problems
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin fold dermatitis
Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing or managing these issues.
Remember, a healthy Pekingese is a happy Pekingese!
Training: Patience is Key
Training a Pekingese can be… let’s say, an interesting experience.
These dogs are intelligent but also have a stubborn streak a mile wide.
The key is to start early, be consistent, and always use positive reinforcement.
Training Tips:
- Keep sessions short and fun
- Use treats and praise liberally
- Be patient and persistent
- Socialize early to prevent overprotectiveness
I once watched a friend try to teach her Pekingese, Dumpling, to “sit.”
After 15 minutes of coaxing, treats, and gentle encouragement, Dumpling finally deigned to lower his royal bottom to the ground.
The look on his face clearly said, “I’m doing this because I want to, not because you told me to.”
Living with a Pekingese: A Royal Adventure
Living with a Pekingese is never dull.
These dogs may be small, but they have a big impact on any household.
They’re perfect for apartment living due to their size, but don’t let that fool you – they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Ideal Home for a Pekingese:
- Patient and understanding owners
- Homes without very young children (they can be nippy if handled roughly)
- Air-conditioned environments (they’re sensitive to heat)
- Households where someone is home most of the time
Remember, Pekingese were bred to be companions, and that’s what they do best.
They thrive on attention and love nothing more than being with their people.
In conclusion, the Pekingese is a breed unlike any other. With their regal bearing, loyal nature, and undeniable charm, they’re sure to win over even the most hesitant dog lover.
Yes, they require some extra care and patience, but the love and companionship they offer in return is truly priceless.
So, are you ready to welcome a little piece of imperial China into your home?
Just be prepared – once you’ve experienced life with a Pekingese, you may find yourself bowing to royalty on a daily basis!
Have you ever lived with a Pekingese? We’d love to hear about your experiences!
Share your stories in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other articles on unique dog breeds.
Breed information
| Characteristic | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Pekingese |
| Origin | China |
| Group | Toy Group |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) |
| Weight | 7-14 lbs (3-6 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat | Long, flowing, and dense |
| Color | Various colors including black, white, red, sable, and more |
| Temperament | Independent, affectionate, alert, and dignified |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Low; daily short walks and indoor play |
| Intelligence | Average; can be somewhat stubborn and independent |
| Trainability | Moderate; benefits from early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training |
| Grooming Needs | High; regular brushing needed to manage the long coat and prevent matting |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Health Issues | Eye problems (e.g., dry eye, corneal ulcers), respiratory issues, dental problems, and patellar luxation |
| Diet | High-quality dog food; typically 1-2 cups per day depending on activity level and size |
| Good with Children | Generally good with older children; may be less tolerant of rough handling |
| Good with Other Pets | Can be good with other pets if properly socialized; may have a strong personality |
| Barking | Moderate; known for being alert and vocal |
| Adaptability | Adaptable to apartment living due to small size but requires regular grooming due to coat type |
| Trainability | Can be a bit challenging; responds best to gentle, positive reinforcement |
| AKC Classification | Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) |
Sources:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – Pekingese Breed Information
- The Kennel Club (UK) – Pekingese Breed Standard
- Vetstreet – Pekingese Overview
