Breed guide

Pekingese Breed Guide

One of the world's oldest companion breeds — regal, unhurried, and profoundly devoted.

Weight: Up to 14 lbs
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Energy: Low
Shedding: High
Trainability: Challenging
Coat: Long, double coat with profuse mane — significant shedder
Good with kids: Yes
Good with other dogs: Yes

The Pekingese is one of the oldest companion dog breeds in the world, developed in ancient China exclusively for the Imperial court. Bred for centuries to be companions to royalty, they carry themselves with an unhurried, dignified quality unlike virtually any other toy breed. They're loyal and loving with their family but tend to be selective about showing affection to strangers.

Personality

Pekingese are famously independent, confident, and self-assured. They're not clingy or frantic — they decide when they want affection and approach interactions on their own terms. They're deeply loyal to their family but express it quietly. They can be stubborn, and training is most successful when the Pekingese sees a reason to cooperate. They tend to be calm indoors and are not demanding about exercise. They do well in quieter households.

Appearance

The Pekingese has a dramatic appearance: a broad, flat skull, very short muzzle, large dark eyes, profuse mane around the shoulders and chest (the 'lion's mane'), and a long double coat that parts down the center of the back. Colors range from golden, red, fawn, cream, black and tan, gray, and parti. Adults weigh up to 14 lbs per AKC standard; most are 8–12 lbs.

Feeding

Twice daily, measured amounts of a high-quality small-breed food. Pekingese can be prone to weight gain, which worsens their brachycephalic breathing. Avoid free-feeding. Choose a food appropriate for small breeds with real meat as the primary ingredient.

Grooming

The Pekingese coat is high-maintenance. Brush every day or every other day to prevent mats — especially the mane, behind the ears, legs, and tail. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Trim the hair between the toes and around the sanitary area regularly. Clean wrinkles around the face 2–3 times per week. Check and clean ears weekly. Daily tooth brushing is strongly recommended.

Exercise

Pekingese have low exercise needs — short walks (15–20 minutes once or twice daily) and indoor play are sufficient. Do not over-exercise, especially in warm or humid weather. Their flat face limits their ability to thermoregulate, and they can overheat quickly.

Training

Pekingese are intelligent but independent — they decide whether to cooperate. Training is most effective with high-value treats, short sessions, and a patient attitude. Harsh corrections or frustration will make them shut down entirely. Crate training, housetraining, and basic manners are achievable with consistency. They are not the breed for competitive obedience.

Health

As a brachycephalic breed, Pekingese have breathing considerations — choose a breeder who selects for adequate nares and appropriate structure. Other concerns include intervertebral disc disease (IVDD — their long back relative to leg length makes them susceptible), eye conditions (bulging eyes are prone to injury and dry eye), skin fold infections, and patellar luxation. Reputable breeders health-test breeding dogs.

Health Concerns to Know

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Eye conditions (dry eye, injury due to prominence)
Skin fold infections
Patellar luxation
Heat intolerance

Fun Facts

For centuries, Pekingese could only be owned by Chinese Imperial family members — stealing one was punishable by death.
Pekingese were introduced to the Western world in 1860 when British troops looted the Summer Palace in Beijing.
A Pekingese named Sun Yat-sen was one of only three dogs to survive the Titanic sinking.
DNA studies rank Pekingese among the most ancient dog breeds in the world, showing the least genetic divergence from wolves.

Pekingese FAQ

Are Pekingese good with children?

Pekingese can coexist peacefully with children but prefer calm, respectful interaction. They're not tolerant of rough handling or being chased. They do best with older children who understand how to interact gently. They typically bond strongly with one or two family members.

Are Pekingese hard to groom?

Yes — the Pekingese coat requires significant commitment. Without regular brushing (every 1–2 days) and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks, the coat mats severely. Many pet owners opt for a shorter 'lion clip' that's easier to maintain while preserving the breed's characteristic look.