Pekingese Dog

The Pekingese is an ancient breed with a history steeped in legend and imperial grandeur, originating in China thousands of years ago. They were held sacred and were exclusively owned by Chinese royalty within the Forbidden City of Peking (now Beijing). These “lion dogs,” so named for their profuse manes, were treasured companions and symbols of good fortune. Legend tells that the Pekingese was created by the Buddha, who shrunk a lion down to dog size. Stealing a Pekingese was punishable by death, and they were often treated with utmost reverence, sometimes even having their own servants.

For centuries, Pekingese were unknown outside of China. They were first introduced to the Western world in 1860 when British troops entered Peking during the Opium Wars and discovered five Pekingese guarding the body of an aunt of the Emperor who had taken her own life. These five dogs were brought back to England and presented to Queen Victoria and other nobles, sparking Western interest in the breed. The Pekingese Club of America was founded in 1906, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in the same year. They remain a symbol of ancient Chinese culture and are cherished for their unique appearance and regal bearing.

The Pekingese possesses a temperament that is a unique blend of dignity, affection, and strong-willed independence. They carry themselves with an air of importance and are not typically fawning or overly boisterous. With their own families, Pekes are deeply loyal and affectionate, often forming a very strong bond with one particular person. They enjoy being close to their people but are not necessarily demanding of constant attention, often content to supervise activities from a comfortable perch.

Pekingese are courageous for their size and can be excellent watchdogs, quick to alert their owners to anything unusual with a surprisingly loud bark. They are often reserved or aloof with strangers and may not readily welcome unfamiliar people or dogs into their space. Early socialization is important to ensure they are well-adjusted. Pekes are intelligent but are also notoriously stubborn and independent, often having their own ideas about how things should be done. They require an owner who appreciates their unique character and can provide patient, respectful leadership.

The Pekingese’s most striking feature is its long, coarse, straight outercoat with a thick, soft undercoat, forming a distinctive mane or ruff around the neck and shoulders. This luxurious coat requires significant and dedicated daily grooming to prevent tangles and severe matting, which can be painful and lead to skin problems.

Daily brushing and combing down to the skin are essential. A pin brush, slicker brush, and a sturdy metal comb are necessary tools. Pay particular attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and the “skirt” of longer hair. Pekingese are moderate shedders, and regular grooming helps manage loose hair. Many pet owners opt for professional grooming or keep their Peke in a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance, though this alters their traditional appearance. The wrinkles on their flat face need to be cleaned regularly and kept dry to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Their prominent eyes also require regular attention to keep them clean. Routine nail trims, ear cleaning, and diligent dental care are also crucial.

Pekingese have low to moderate exercise needs. They are not high-energy athletes but do require short daily walks and opportunities for indoor play to stay healthy and prevent obesity, to which they can be prone. Their primary role has always been that of a companion, and they are generally content with a more leisurely lifestyle.

One or two short, slow-paced walks each day are usually sufficient. They enjoy exploring their surroundings at their own pace. Indoor playtime with favorite toys can also provide good stimulation. It is critically important to remember that Pekingese are a **brachycephalic breed** (flat-faced). This makes them highly susceptible to overheating and respiratory distress, especially in hot, humid weather or during strenuous exercise. Walks should always be scheduled for the coolest parts of the day during warm months, and owners must be vigilant for any signs of breathing difficulty. They are well-suited for apartment living.

Pekingese, due to their brachycephalic conformation and other genetic predispositions, are unfortunately prone to a number of health problems. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock. Potential health concerns include:

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): Difficulty breathing due to their short muzzle, narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palate, and other airway abnormalities. This is very common.
• Eye Problems: Their large, prominent eyes are susceptible to injuries, corneal ulcers, dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca), entropion, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Proptosis (eyeball dislodging) can occur with trauma.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Their longish back and short legs can put them at risk for spinal disc problems.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
• Skin Fold Dermatitis: Infections in their facial wrinkles if not kept meticulously clean and dry.
• Heatstroke/Overheating: Very high risk due to their brachycephalic nature and often thick coat.
• Heart Conditions:** Such as mitral valve disease.
• Dental Issues:** Common in toy breeds due to small mouths and potential for overcrowding.