Pekingese Breed

Pekingese :

General Information

Dog Name: Pekingese

Dog breed Group: Companion dogs

Size Category: Small dog breeds

Height: Ranges from six inches to nine inches (measured at the shoulder).

Weight: Ranges from 7 to 14 pounds.

Lifespan: Ranges from 12 to 15 years.

Brief History

Legend suggests that the Pekingese was created when a lion fell in love with a monkey, and begged Buddha to shrink him to match his lover's size. Whilst this may not be completely true, the Pekingese is indeed one of China's most ancient breeds and was a companion to members of the imperial family. The breed was rarely allowed to leave the palace, and so finding five unguarded Pekingese dogs was a treat for British troops during the Opium War of 1860. They were taken back to England as prizes of war, and many more dogs were smuggled out of China in the coming years.

Dog Breed Characteristics

A. Protection Ability

Whilst they are more used to being guarded than doing the guarding themselves, the Pekingese is loud enough to be an effective watch dog.

B. Ease of Training

This breed is intelligent and stubborn, which makes training them very difficult. Leadership should be established as early as possible, and owners will need lots of patience when training this breed.

C. Playfulness

The Pekingese has retained its air of nobility, and they expect their owners to cater to them. They are reasonably playful, but if they're no longer in the mood to play they will walk away.

D. Exercise needs

The Pekingese will proudly strut along the pavement when taken on walks, but they don't actually require much physical activity to stay fit. One short walk each day should suffice.

E. Adaptability

The Pekingese will take most things in its stride, but due to its small stature and fluffy coat, it can't abide hot weather. In most respects, this breed is quite easy to care for and a good choice for a novice owner.