Description
The Pekingese has an extravagant, long, straight-flowing coat that has profuse feathering and comes in all colors. It has a broad head that is wide between their large, dark, lucid and slightly prominent eyes. The face is flat with a dark, wrinkled muzzle, and drooping heart-shaped, long feathering ears. Their necks are short and thick. When their mouth is closed, neither teeth nor tongue should show. These tiny, heavy boned dogs have a characteristic rolling gait.
Temperament
Pekingese are very brave little dogs, courageous to the point of foolhardiness! They are sensitive, independent and extremely affectionate with their master, but are wary of strangers. They are obstinate, self-willed and may be difficult to feed and are sometimes known to refuse to eat as much to show dominance over its owner as to lack of appetite. The Pekingese is stubborn and independent. He is courageous , despite his small size. He is a big dog in a small dogs body. The Peke can be a loyal family member, friendly and outgoing, but wary of strangers. They will bark at anything that they feel is out of the ordinary, and can be excellent watchdogs when they feel the family or themselves ,are in danger. They can be very self-important at times. Although they do get along well with children, they tend to prefer them to be older children. They are not always tolerate of others animals and should be well socialized at an early age. The Pekingese will often become attached to one person, and can become demanding and jealous of their "Human of choice ". They can be considered a lapdog, and are quite content to lounge in the lap of their master. If overfed, Pekingese will quickly become overweight. They are loving to the point of jealousy. They tend to bark a lot and make good watchdogs. Not recommended for young children who are too rough. This breed may be difficult to housebreak.
Height, Weight
Height: 6-9 inches (30.4-45cm.), Weight: 8-10 pounds (3.6-4.5kg.)
Any Pekingese under 6 pounds is called a sleeve Pekingese. It is the smallest member of the Pekingese family, and the most popular size during the breeds development in China. To be a sleeve it must be 6 pounds (2.7 kg) or under, anything over that is not a considered a sleeve. In-between 6 and 8 (2.7-3.6 kg.) pounds is considered a Mini Pekingese.
Health Problems
Pekingese tend to catch colds very easily. Very difficult births. Prone to herniated disks and dislocated kneecaps. Trichaiasis (lashes growing inwards toward the eyeballs). Breathing problems and heart problems are also common.
Living Conditions
The Pekingese are good for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Exercise
Pekingese need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard. Get your Pek accustomed to the leash when they are still a puppy. Some owners have told me their Pek will walk up to 4 miles on a nightly walk.
Life Expectancy
With healthy dogs, about 10-15 years.
Grooming
Daily combing and brushing of the very long, double coat is essential. Take extra care around the hindquarters, which can become solid and matted. Females shed the undercoat when in season. Dry shampoo regularly. Clean the face and eyes daily and check the hairy feet for burrs and objects that stick there. These dogs are average shedders. Good grooming is a must for the Pekingese. Bathing should be done once or twice a month. The Peke is a double coated breed and should be brushed on a daily basis to keep mats from forming. Trimming should be done around the pads of the feet so that the feet can touch the floor without being impeded. A spray bottle of grooming spray or distilled water should be kept handy so that the coat can be lightly misted .This will help to cut down on the formation of mats and also help keep the coat healthy.
Origin
Pekingese where regarded as manifestation of the legendary Foo Dog that drove away spirits. They were venerated as semi-divine by the Chinese. Commoners had to bow to them; you were punished by death if you stole one, and when an emperor died, his Pekingese were sacrificed so that they could go with him to give protection in the afterlife. In 1860 the Pekingese reached the West. British and French troops over ran the Summer Palace during the Second Opium War. Imperial Guards were ordered to kill the little dogs to prevent them from falling into the hands of the "foreign devils," but five Pekingese survived and were taken to Queen Victoria, who named it appropriately, "Looty." It is from these canine spoils of war that the modern Pekingese is descended. In 1893 the breed was first shown in Britain. It was recognized in the US in 1909.
Group
Gun Dog, AKC Sporting Group
