Pekingeses - Dogs

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Pekingeses - Dogs - General Information

Picture source:
West Bay Pekingese © 2001

Pekingese dogs are intelligent little creatures that are said to be good in agility, tracking, competitive obedience, and other canine activities. Yet, the basic breed function is that of a human companion. The Pekingese has preserved this function over the years, from the time of its appearance in ancient China to the time when it entered the Western Civilization.

The breed was brought to Great Britain in the end of the 19th century. The public took much interest in the outlandish breed. Yet, the Pekingese remained a luxury for a long time. Only the royalty and the wealthy could own the dogs due to their low availability. British breeders tried to produce more dogs to satisfy demand, which altered the breed a little. However, their success in breeding this Chinese Lion dog is evident in the fact that Great Britain is considered the second motherland of the Pekingese.

The breed spread gradually across Europe and the United States. It did not see enormous ups and downs in popularity. Its numbers grew steadily with all-breed registries' recognition and appearance of breed clubs that promoted the Pekingese by the means of educating breeders and organizing breed events.

Pekingeses - Dogs - What Do They Look Like?

The Pekingese dog is a compact little dog, one of Toy Group breeds. It resembles the lion closely and is distinguished by a thick mane, flat muzzle with slight folds, and large round eyes that have an expression of curiosity and boldness.

According to the AKC breed standard, the Pekingese should not exceed the weight of 14 pounds. A peculiar feature of the breed is a rather heavy front side of the dog compared to the hindquarters. The Pekingese has heavy-boned forelegs and a muscular body. The dog should be well balanced. The Pekingese usually reaches the height of about 6-9 inches (15-23 cm).

The Pekingese is a double-coated dog with thick soft undercoat and long straight outer coat that is longer on the neck and shoulders. It takes daily brushing and occasional visits to a professional groomer to avoid matted hairs. Trimming is not applied. Some feathering is left on the ears, the backside of the thighs and forelegs, and the tail.

Pekingeses - Dogs - Is it a Breed for You?

Picture source:
Dratsum Pekingese

The Pekingese will make a wonderful companion to people who enjoy affectionate relationships and would be happy to have a playful devoted companion. The breed is a good choice for city dwellers. It does not need a lot of exercise and is generally a low energy dog. Needless to say, energy level differs from one Pekingese to another, yet most prefer to spend their day leisurely lying on the sofa.

Low activity level of the breed should make prospective owners whose main objective is acquiring a playmate for children think twice prior to purchasing a Pekingese. The dog may turn out to satisfy its exercise needs before the kids stop playing. Besides, smaller children are not always considerate when dealing with Toy breeds.

The Pekingese is relatively an easy dog to keep in terms of care. Its needs include short walks, plain ration, regular grooming, and obedience training. The breed tends to be dominant and willful. Thus, patience is of paramount importance here. Pekingese dogs should also be prevented from heat strokes.

Pekingeses - Dogs - Health Issues

The Pekingese is generally a healthy breed, yet it is susceptible to some disorders, such as elongated soft palate common in short-muzzled breeds. Some bloodlines can develop KCS, also called "dry eye." Bone problems also occur in the breed. It is recommended to test breeding stock for eye and knee disorders. Well cared for, Pekingese dogs live from 13 to 15 years and longer.