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Hill’s Brand Horizon

Pekingese

dog Breed Profile

The Pekingese is a member of the toy group, ranging in height from six to nine inches and in weight from six pounds for the tiniest to 14 pounds (3 to 6 kilograms) at the heaviest.

Attributes

Brachycephalic (squashed face), short bowed legs, floppy ears (naturally)

Size

Weight

7-12 lbs.

7-12 lbs.

Height

7 in.

(at withers)

8 in.

Coat

Length

Long

Color

All colors and patterns are allowable

Care

Exercise

<20 minutes/day

Energy level

Laid back

Longevity

13-15 yrs.

Needs

Low

Traits

Barking

Moderate

Snoring

High

Drooling

Low

Digging

Low

Grooming Needs

High

Social Needs

Low

Club recognition

AKC Class.

Toy

UKC Class.

Companion Dog

Prevalence

Common

The Pekingese Dog Breed

Pekingese seem to be aware that it is a dog of royal ancestry and has an aloofness and dignity can be seen about them.

About the Pekingese

The Pekingese is a member of the toy group, ranging in height from six to nine inches and in weight from six pounds for the tiniest to 14 pounds (3 to 6 kilograms) at the heaviest.

Pekingese personality

The Pekingese seems to be aware that it is a dog of royal ancestry. An aloofness and dignity can be seen about them, although occasionally they do let their hair down and romp. These are very alert little watchdogs and will sound an alarm bark much bigger than their size.

Pekingese are generally good with other dogs and pets, but they should be socialized early and thoroughly to accept many people. They can be aloof with strangers, although they are devoted to their families. While quite smart, these are independent little dogs and training requires patience and creativity.

Pekingese are not prone to be nuisance chewers or diggers but can be stubborn about learning new things.

What to expect

The Pekingese is a very easy dog to keep and requires little food to stay healthy. Too many treats easily lead to obesity. While fairly active, Pekingese do not need long walks for their exercise. A short romp indoors or outdoors in good weather will suffice. With the shortened face, Pekingese do not handle hot or humid weather well. This shortened muzzle also makes them prone to snoring!

Pekingese need plenty of human companionship to be happy. They thrive on attention and will bark and attempt to protect their homes and families. They are very happy to be lap dogs much of the time. Most Pekingese get along well with older children. Early socialization to many people is important.

Grooming is an important consideration. A dog in full show coat requires extensive attention daily. Most pet Pekingese have slightly shorter, easier-to-care for coats, but they still need a quick daily grooming. Care must be taken to keep their faces clean, especially around the wrinkle on the muzzle. Check the long hair around the rectum to keep it clean as well.

History of the Pekingese

The Pekingese is another ancient Chinese breed. These dogs have been known in China since about A.D. 700 and at least some of their popularity is attributed to the rise of Buddhism in China. Lions and, therefore, lion-like dogs, were symbols of Buddha, and these small dogs with their luxuriant flowing manes fit the bill. Intercrossing with the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso is certainly possible.

In the 1800s, the Pekingese was the darling of the Imperial Chinese court. Numerous eunuchs ran a special breeding program for these sleeve dogs, and the Pekingese was truly a dog of luxury. In the sacking of Peking by the British in 1860, only a few Pekingese survived, at least one of which made it to England and became the darling of Queen Victoria. Once again, royal favor led to popularity and the Pekingese has not looked back since.

Most modern day Pekingese are larger than the true sleeve dogs, but they are still much beloved companions and alert watchdogs.

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