Pekingese

Pekingese
Energy: 3/5 Shedding: 3/5 Good with kids Apartment-friendly

The Pekingese is known for being opinionated, good-natured, stubborn, affectionate, aggressive, intelligent.

Lifespan: 14 - 18 years

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Breed History

The Pekingese, often affectionately referred to as "Peks," is a charming toy breed with a rich history that traces back to the heart of China. This regal little dog was once a cherished companion of Chinese royalty, particularly within the opulent walls of the Imperial court. Named after the city of Beijingโ€”historically known as Pekingโ€”these dogs symbolize a connection to the grandeur of the Forbidden City. With their distinctive flat faces and large, expressive eyes, Pekingese have captivated hearts for centuries, embodying a unique blend of elegance and charm thatโ€™s hard to resist. What truly sets the Pekingese apart is not just its striking appearance but also its fascinating evolution. The breedโ€™s compact, muscular build and the unusual rolling gait are thought to be the result of selective breeding aimed at keeping these little treasures from wandering too far in ancient times. Their luxurious long fur, which many modern breeders and dog show judges prefer, adds to their allure, making them a favorite in the world of designer crossbreeds, such as the Peekapoo and Peke-a-tese. With their playful yet dignified demeanor, Pekingese are more than just adorable companions; they are a living link to a storied past, making them a delightful addition to any family looking for a pet with personality and a touch of history.

Temperament

Opinionated Good-natured Stubborn Affectionate Aggressive

Grooming Needs

Grooming difficulty: moderate. 2-3 times per week

Exercise Needs

Exercise needs: 30-60 minutes daily.

๐Ÿฅ Health Information

Common Health Issues:

  • Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
  • Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • Patellar Luxation

Pekingese are prone to several health issues due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, which can lead to breathing difficulties and overheating. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their respiratory health. They may also suffer from intervertebral disc disease due to their long backs and short legs, requiring careful handling to prevent injury. Patellar luxation is another common concern, where the kneecap dislocates easily, potentially requiring surgical intervention.

Average Annual Vet Costs: $500 - $1500

Recommended Health Screenings:

  • Respiratory Evaluation
  • Orthopedic Examination

๐ŸŽ“ Training & Behavior

Trainability

4/5 โญ

Intelligence

4/5 ๐Ÿง 

Barking

3/5 ๐Ÿ”Š

Training Tips:

Pekingese respond best to positive reinforcement techniques. Consistent, short training sessions are effective due to their independent nature. Socialization from a young age is crucial to prevent stubbornness and ensure they are well-adjusted to various environments and people.

Behavioral Challenges:

Stubbornness,Separation Anxiety

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost of Ownership

Puppy Price:$800 - $2000
Monthly Food Cost:$40 - $80
First Year Cost:$3500
Lifetime Cost (Est.):$25000

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Compatibility

Young Children

4/5 ๐Ÿ‘ถ

Other Dogs

3/5 ๐Ÿ•

Cats

3/5 ๐Ÿˆ

First-Time Owners

3/5 ๐Ÿ†•

๐Ÿ› Detailed Care

Home Grooming:

2-3 times per week

Professional Grooming:

every 6-8 weeks

๐Ÿƒ Exercise & Nutrition

Daily Exercise:

30 - 60 minutes

Exercise Intensity:

moderate

Daily Calories:

400 - 600 calories

๐ŸŽ‰ Fun Facts

  • Pekingese were bred to resemble Chinese guardian lions.
  • They were once considered sacred dogs of the Chinese Imperial court.
  • Pekingese have a distinctive rolling gait due to their unique body structure.

Famous Examples:

  • Looty, the Pekingese gifted to Queen Victoria
  • Sun Yat-sen, a Pekingese owned by David Bowie

Nicknames:

  • Lion Dog
  • Peke