Pekingese Dog Breed Information

Personality

Though they are little puppies, they are not shy or just cuddly pets. Brave and determined, these Chinese lion dogs can be friendly and caring, but they aren’t overly cuddly. Pekingese dogs are very self-reliant and can be quite stubborn, with some being a bit distant. They can enjoy playing with family but may not be as playful with kids. They dislike being treated roughly and can get hurt easily by young children.

History

The Pekingese breed comes from the Lamaist tradition of Buddhism. The lion was an important symbol for Buddha and often appeared in small sculptures. These “Foo” dogs were designed to look like lions, leading to their nickname “lion dogs.” They were highly valued during the T’ang Dynasty, from 700 to 1,000 A.D., and were treated like royalty. Smaller versions of these dogs were called Sleeve Dogs because they could fit into the sleeves of traditional Chinese clothing and were carried there. In the mid-1800s, British forces looted the Imperial Summer Palace, taking five lion dogs back to England for Queen Victoria, which sparked a huge interest in the breed. While they were very popular in the late 20th century, their popularity is more moderate today.

Ideal Owner

Pekingese dogs have thick fur that requires regular grooming, so their owners should be ready to invest time or money into upkeep. These dogs are loyal friends with unique traits. Although they don’t require a lot of exercise or constant attention, they can still be seen as needing extra care.

Exercise Needs

Because of their thick coats and short legs, they struggle to take quick or lengthy walks, but staying active is crucial for their health. A half-hour walk at a comfortable speed or some free running in a secure yard works well. They should avoid hot or warm weather, so it’s best to let them exercise in the early morning or late evening. Being close to the ground, they are more sensitive to the heat of the pavement than people or many other dog breeds.

Space Requirements

Pekingese are small dogs that don’t take up much room, but they need owners who are around often. A Pekingese left alone for too long can feel sad. They struggle with stairs. A daily walk in the city or some playtime in a secure yard is enough for them, so they can fit into various types of homes.

Training

Treats and playthings are great incentives for the lion dog, who can learn effectively when given the right encouragement. While they are clever, Pekingese tend to be lazy and don’t enjoy training just for the sake of it. It’s important to teach them to walk nicely on a leash, come when called, and to interact well with others.

Grooming

If a pet owner decides to maintain the complete traditional coat of a Pekingese, they must be ready to groom their dog every day to avoid tangles or mats, particularly in areas like the mane, elbows, ears, and chest. It's important for the dog to learn to stay calm during grooming, whether it’s done by the owner or a professional. Daily checks for dirt and tear stains around the eyes and skin are necessary, and the paw pads should also be examined often.

Suitability for Family Life

People who stay at home or work remotely are perfect companions for Pekingese dogs, as these pets love to be close to their owners. However, small kids and Pekingese don’t mix well, since they may compete for attention, and noisy, busy households can make these dogs anxious.

Did You know?

The TV show “All Creatures Great and Small” included a Pekingese dog. In old China, the tiniest and bravest Pekingese were often tucked into the long sleeves of messengers and Emperors, which is how they got the name “Sleeve Dogs.”