Pekinese puppies are a popular breed, known for their adorable looks and affectionate nature. They are a toy dog breed that originated in China, where they were bred as companions for royalty.
Pekinese puppies are relatively small, weighing between 7-14 pounds and standing between 6-9 inches tall. They have a flat face, black nose, and a short, fine coat that requires regular grooming.
One of the most distinctive features of Pekinese puppies is their long, flowing coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They come in a variety of colors, including fawn, black, and red.
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Care and Upkeep
Pekingese puppies require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their thick coats. Daily brushing, ideally down to the skin, is essential to keep their coats healthy and prevent mats.
Shedding is relatively light, but their heavy wrinkled nose needs to be cleaned and dried daily to prevent infections. Their prominent eyes are also prone to dryness and should be checked regularly for abrasions.
To prevent overheating, Pekingese puppies need to be kept in a cooler environment, especially in hot weather. They should have access to plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
Care
To keep your Pekingese looking and feeling its best, daily brushing is a must. This should be done right down to the skin to prevent mats and shedding. Shedding is fairly light, but regular brushing will help keep their coat in top condition.
Their prominent eyes need regular checks for abrasions and dryness. Because of their short muzzle, protruding objects in their environment can be a hazard, so be sure to cover or remove any potential dangers.
Pekingese need to run and jump around daily, but their exercise needs are modest and can be met even inside an apartment. After a good run, they're often content to be a quiet house dog.
Their short legs can make large steps a challenge, especially for older dogs. Be careful when picking them up to ensure they stay balanced in your arms.
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Pekingese can overheat easily, so it's essential to keep them cool, especially in hot weather. Some owners even travel with ice packs or ice pillows to keep their pets cool.
Here are some important health checks to perform regularly:
- Check their large eyes for abrasions and dryness
- Check their ears weekly for wax, dirt, and debris
- Brush their teeth daily to prevent dental issues
- Monitor their breathing, especially in hot weather
- Keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke
Remember, Pekingese are prone to breathing problems and brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS), so it's crucial to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary advice if you notice any issues.
Exercise
The Pekingese is a low-maintenance breed when it comes to exercise. They require short leisurely walks to stay happy and healthy.
Their low exercise needs make them perfect for older people or those with health issues. They can also thrive in households with frequent work schedules.
Short walks are all they need, and they can get plenty of physical activity through indoor playtime.
Temperament and Training
Pekingese puppies are born to be royal, with a strong sense of self-importance and loyalty to their family.
They make excellent watchdogs, alert and assertive, but they rarely bark unless convinced of a threat.
Their independent nature can make training a challenge, but consistency and positive reinforcement are key.
Pekingese puppies need to be socialized early on to interact with strangers and other dogs.
They're not as playful as some other breeds, and they'd rather chill with you on the couch.
Pekingese need an experienced pet parent who understands the need for consistency in training.
Crate training can be an effective way to potty train your puppy, but it's essential to find the right size crate.
Pekingese can be stubborn, but they're intelligent and can learn to follow orders with patience and positive reinforcement.
They bond strongly with their families, but they're less impressed with strangers, so socialization is crucial.
Pekingese are not aggressive, but they'll let you know if they've overstepped the mark.
They're not suited for very young children, as they may nip if their patience is tested too often.
Pekingese are charmers and can train their humans, so watch out!
They adore spending time with their pet parents but can also happily spend a few hours on their own indoors.
Pekingese are brachycephalic, which means they can easily overheat in hot weather, so they need to be kept in a cooler environment.
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Health and Wellness
As a proud owner of a Pekingese puppy, you want to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy. A 2024 UK study found that Pekingese have a life expectancy of 13.3 years, which is impressive compared to other breeds.
However, like all Toy breeds, Pekingese are prone to trauma, which is the leading cause of death. Primary health concerns include neurological and cardiovascular defects, which can be a concern for any puppy owner.
Breeding for a flattened face has led to brachycephaly, which can cause eye issues and breathing problems in some Pekingese. This can result in health issues such as eye ulcers, skin allergies, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye).
In an effort to address breathing difficulties, the Kennel Club changed the breed standard in 2008, removing the clause that required a "flat profile" and adding that the "muzzle must be evident." This change was made in response to public opinion and concerns about the breed's health.
Some common health issues in Pekingese include dental disease, obesity, brachycephalic syndrome, dry eye syndrome, and mitral valve disease. It's essential to be aware of these potential health issues and take steps to prevent them.
Here are some specific health concerns to watch out for:
- Brachycephalic syndrome
- Dry eye syndrome
- Mitral valve disease
- Dental disease
- Obesity
It's also crucial to be aware of potential eye problems, such as distichiasis, cataracts, and glaucoma, which can cause blindness. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions.
Owning a Pekinese Puppy
Pekingese puppies are playful, curious, and affectionate, but they can be stubborn, especially when they want to learn more about something.
They require plenty of supervision and puppy-proofing to keep them out of trouble. You'll need to socialize them with other pets, people, and places to help them feel more comfortable.
Finding a breeder and the cost of your puppy will depend on your location and current demand, and you may need to budget extra for shipping if you find one online.
Owning a Dog
Owning a dog can be a life-changing experience, and it's essential to consider the needs and personalities of the breed you're interested in. Pekingese puppies are playful, curious, and affectionate, but they can also be stubborn, especially when they want to learn more about something.
Pekingese puppies require plenty of supervision and puppy-proofing to keep them out of trouble. They also need socialization with other pets, people, and places to feel more comfortable around them. This can be a challenge for first-time dog owners, but with patience and consistency, it's achievable.
You can find a Pekingese puppy through a breeder, either locally or online, but be prepared to budget extra for shipping if you choose the latter. It's crucial to research the breeder and ensure they adhere to breed standards and prioritize the health of their dogs.
Pekingese owners often comment on the breed's adaptability, making them well-suited for small living spaces, including city apartments. However, their small size means they can get hurt easily, so it's essential to be mindful of their fragility, especially around small children.
As a Pekingese owner, you can expect to provide regular grooming and training, as well as plenty of affection and attention. They don't require a lot of exercise, but they do need regular breaks to avoid overheating, especially in hot weather.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Pekinese puppy requires some extra care, especially when it comes to their fragile nature. They can be challenging to train, but with a routine and plenty of positive reinforcement, you can teach them a surprising number of tricks.
Their small size makes them well-suited to apartments, and they often get along well with other pets. However, they can be a bit too fragile for small children.
Despite their independent streak, Pekinese puppies thrive on family life and attention from their owners. They are quite intelligent, which makes them responsive to training and tricks.
A consistent routine and positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping your Pekinese puppy learn and grow.
General Information
Pekinese puppies are a popular breed known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are small in size, typically weighing between 7-14 pounds.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
Breed History
The Pekingese breed has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. They originated in ancient China, where they were once part of Chinese royalty.
Legend has it that the Pekingese breed was created by a lion and a marmoset who fell in love. They were named Lion dogs because of their resemblance to the ancient guard lions of China, known as Shishi or Pelchie dogs.
In the 8th century, the Pekingese was treated like royalty and was never allowed to leave the palace. They were so revered that they had their own servants, and the penalty for stealing one was death.
The Pekingese was bred to be companion dogs to Chinese nobles, and they formed strong bonds with their owners. They were often carried in the large sleeves of the royal robes, earning them the nickname "sleeve dogs."
The Pekingese was first introduced to the Western world after the British invasion of Peking in 1860. Five Pekingese dogs were discovered in hiding and were removed by British troops before the Palace was burnt.
The Pekingese became a favorite of Queen Victoria, who was given one of the dogs as a gift. The breed was later registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1906.
Today, the Pekingese is the 93rd most popular breed in the United States, according to the AKC.
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Breed Appearance
The Pekingese breed has a distinctive appearance that's hard to miss. They have a long coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, red sable, red, gray, fawn sable, fawn, cream, black and tan, black, and biscuit.
Their coat is often adorned with markings such as a black muzzle with white markings, black muzzle, black mask with white markings, and black face with white markings. They even have a black mask and white markings or a black face and white markings.
Pekingese dogs are often described as resembling tiny lions, which is fitting given their majestic appearance. They have a body that's heavier in the front than the back and a rolling gait that's quite unique.
Their head is massive and broad, with a flat face, black nose, and dark eyes. Their ears are shaped like hearts and lie against the head, adding to their adorable appearance. Feathering and fringing of the coat at the ears, chest, and underside is also normal.
Pekingese dogs typically weigh under 14 pounds and stand about 8 inches tall.
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Similarly Sized Breeds
If you're looking for breeds that are similar in size to the Pekingese, you're in luck. There are several breeds that are comparable in size.
One such breed is the Jack-A-Ranian, which is 94% similar in size to the Pekingese. This crossbreed is a fun and energetic companion.
Another breed that's worth considering is the Yorkinese, also 94% similar in size to the Pekingese. They're intelligent and affectionate dogs that make great family pets.
If you're looking for a more laid-back breed, the Brussels Griffon might be a good fit. They're 92% similar in size to the Pekingese and have a gentle, playful nature.
If you're drawn to smaller breeds, the Snorkie is a great option. They're 91% similar in size to the Pekingese and are known for their big eyes and sweet disposition.
Lastly, the Silky Tzu is another breed that's worth considering. They're 90% similar in size to the Pekingese and have a beautiful, silky coat.
Here are some similarly sized breeds to the Pekingese:
- Jack-A-Ranian (94% similar)
- Yorkinese (94% similar)
- Brussels Griffon (92% similar)
- Snorkie (91% similar)
- Silky Tzu (90% similar)
Three Little-Known Facts About
The average person spends around 70% of their day indoors, making it essential to have a good understanding of general information to navigate everyday life.
General knowledge is not just about remembering facts, it's also about being able to apply that knowledge in practical situations.
Did you know that the human brain processes visual information 60,000 times faster than text? This is why images and infographics are often used to convey information more effectively.
Having a broad range of interests can actually make you a more efficient learner, as you're more likely to make connections between seemingly unrelated pieces of information.
Some studies suggest that people who have a strong foundation in general knowledge tend to perform better in problem-solving tasks, even when the problems are outside of their usual area of expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pekingese a good family dog?
Pekingese are suitable for families with older children, but early socialization is crucial for a harmonious household. They make loyal companions, but may not be the best fit for very young children or households with multiple pets.
What is the average cost of a Pekingese puppy?
The average cost of a Pekingese puppy varies by region, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 in the southern states and $1,000 to $2,200 in the Midwest. To determine the exact cost, consider factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location.
What is a Pekingese life expectancy?
A Pekingese's average lifespan is 12 to 14 years, typical for small breeds. With proper care, they can live a long and healthy life.
How big will a Pekingese get?
A healthy adult Pekingese typically grows to 6-9 inches tall and weighs 7-14 pounds. Regular exercise is essential to prevent obesity in this breed.
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- Patellar Luxation (petmd.com)
- Cataracts (petmd.com)
- distichiasis (petmd.com)
- Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (petmd.com)
- AKC’s popularity list (akc.org)
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