Peking Lion Dog, Lion Dog, Chinese Spaniel, Pelchie Dog, Peking Palasthund, Peke
Overview
The Pekingese is a compact dog with a pear-shaped body, heavy forequarters and lighter hindquarters. It is slightly longer than it is tall, with a stocky, heavy build. Its image is lionlike. It should imply courage, boldness and self-esteem rather than prettiness, daintiness or delicacy. Its gait is dignified and unhurried, with a slight roll resulting from its wider, heavier forequarters. It has a thick undercoat, and its outer coat is long, coarse and straight, and stands off. It forms a mane around the shoulders. The Pekingese must suggest its Chinese origins in its lionlike appearance, bold and direct character, and distinctive expression.
The Pekingese is decidedly not a sissy lap dog. It is a courageous character that will not start a fight but will not back down from one either. It tends to be aloof around strangers. It is extremely devoted to its family, but it is independent and not overly demonstrative. Its stubbornness is legendary. Although playful around family members, it may not be athletic or playful enough to satisfy many children.
| Size | Small |
| Height | 6-9 inches (30.4-45 cm) |
| Weight | 8-10 pounds (3.6-4.5 kg) |
| Lifespan | 13-15 years |
| Colors | Black Cream Fawn Gray Red White |
| Origin | China |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
Pekingese are good for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. |
| Good With Children |
Not Good with Kids: In isolation, this dog breed might not be the best option for kids. However, to mitigate the risks, have the puppy grow up with kids and provide it with plenty of pleasant and relaxed experiences with them. This breed is also very friendly toward other pets and shy toward strangers. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
The Pekingese has very little need for exercise, making it especially suited for life in an apartment. The Pekingese enjoys a leisurely stroll outside, but is highly prone to heat exposure and should never be left outside or over exercised in hot weather. |
| Trainability |
Difficult Training: A Pekingese considers itself to be its own boss (if not the king of the house), but it can be trained through positive reinforcement. Patience is required when training the Pekingese. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
High Maintenance: The Pekingese requires a great deal of maintenance, including daily brushing, particularly on the belly and between the legs, and grooming every few months or when dirty. Powdering or dry shampooing is also required. Excessive hair around the pads of the feet must be trimmed. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Frequent |