The White Pekingese dog breed is a stunning companion, with its pure white coat and regal demeanor. They are a toy breed, weighing between 7-14 pounds.
Their flat face and short snout can make breathing difficult, especially in hot or humid weather. This requires careful consideration when exercising your White Pekingese.
In terms of grooming, their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, but they are generally low shedders. This makes them a great choice for those with allergies or a preference for less dog hair.
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Pet Care Considerations
As a proud owner of a white Pekingese dog, you know how much love and care they require. They're a toy breed with a long history, originating from Ancient China.
Their thick double coat is a defining feature, requiring regular brushing to prevent matting. A daily brushing, right down to the skin, is essential to prevent mats and tangles. If you're not careful, their coat can become smelly and infected, especially around the heavy wrinkle over their nose.
Pekingese dogs are also prone to overheating due to their flat face and small nostrils. This means they need to be protected from hot weather, and exercise should be avoided during peak temperatures. You can even travel with ice packs or ice pillows to keep them cool.
With their short legs and front-heavy build, Pekingese dogs can have difficulty with large steps. Be careful when picking them up, and ensure they stay balanced in your arms. Regular veterinary check-ups are also crucial to monitor their breathing and detect any potential issues with their airway.
Here are some essential pet care considerations for your white Pekingese dog:
- Brush their coat daily to prevent matting and tangles
- Keep an eye out for overheating and protect them from hot weather
- Regularly check their nose wrinkle and eyes for any signs of infection
- Trim their nails, clean their ears, and brush their teeth regularly
- Provide regular exercise, but avoid large steps and hot weather
- Consider professional grooming every six to eight weeks to maintain their beautiful coat
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your white Pekingese dog lives a happy and healthy life.
Temperament and Behavior
Pekingese dogs are known for their royal demeanor and loyal nature. They make excellent watchdogs, but they can be stubborn and hard to train. They are alert and will often bark at perceived threats, but they rarely bark unnecessarily.
Pekingese dogs are intelligent, but they can be independent and do as they please. They often don't follow orders unless they see a good reason to do so. This can make training a challenge for their owners.
Pekingese dogs are generally confident and opinionated, but they can be guarded when meeting new people. Socializing them early can help them grow to be okay around strangers. They adore their family and can be comical and entertaining to watch.
Pekingese dogs can develop separation anxiety when their favorite humans are not around. They are affectionate companions that are loyal to a select group of people. They are not overly demonstrative and may not be the best fit for very young children.
Pekingese dogs are laid-back at home, but they can be alert and sound the alarm if they sense something scary. They get along well with cats and other dogs, but they can be fiercely confident and may not back down from larger dogs.
Pekingese dogs are adaptable and well-suited to almost any living environment. They can be a great family pet due to their affectionate and playful nature. However, their small size means they can get hurt easily by small children who may not understand how fragile they are.
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Health and Nutrition
A white Pekingese dog is a beautiful companion, and with the right care, they can live a long and happy life. Their average lifespan is between 12-14 years.
To ensure your white Pekingese receives a complete and balanced diet, feed them a commercial kibble or wet food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Puppies should be fed a food formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages.
Pekingese may benefit from adding omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) into their diet, which can be found in skin and joint supplements, fish oil, or specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart.
To keep your white Pekingese cool, especially during hot summer months, make sure they have access to water and air conditioning. Restrict outdoor activity to the mornings and evenings, as dogs don't sweat like humans do.
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Health and Conditions
The Pekingese breed is generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Their lifespan averages between 12–14 years.
Dental disease and obesity are two common health concerns that can affect Pekingese dogs. These issues can be prevented or managed with regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet.
Brachycephalic syndrome, a condition common in short-faced breeds, can lead to respiratory distress in Pekingese dogs. This is due to their shortened airways, which can restrict their ability to breathe through their nose.
Dry eye syndrome and mitral valve disease are two other health issues that can affect Pekingese dogs. These conditions can be painful and may require surgery to correct.
Here are some specific health issues to watch out for in Pekingese dogs:
- Dental disease
- Obesity
- Brachycephalic syndrome
- Dry eye syndrome
- Mitral valve disease
It's essential to discuss potential health issues with your vet to know what to watch out for and address any concerns early on. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can go a long way in maintaining your Pekingese's overall health and well-being.
Dog Nutrition
Feeding your Pekingese a commercial kibble or wet food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a good way to ensure they receive a complete and balanced diet.
Pekingese puppies need a food formulated specifically for puppies or for all life stages, while adult dogs may benefit from a dental-focused diet to prevent dental disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) can be beneficial for Pekingese, found in skin and joint supplements, fish oil, or specially formulated dog foods, which act as natural anti-inflammatories for the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart.
You should talk with your veterinarian to determine the right caloric intake for your Pekingese, as it varies among individuals based on size, metabolism, neuter status, and activity level.
To choose a high-quality dog food, look for a brand that lists real meat like chicken or beef as the first ingredient and is suitable for your dog's age, and consider asking your vet about small breed food requirements.
Avoid brands that use chemical preservatives or artificial colors, and regularly check with the FDA for any recalls on a brand you're using or considering.
Training and Exercise
The white Pekingese dog is a smart breed that requires consistent training to thrive. They might not always see the point in following commands, but with the right approach, they can learn.
Their low exercise needs make them a great fit for older people, those with health issues, and busy professionals. Short leisurely walks and indoor playtime with mentally stimulating activities are all they need to stay happy and healthy.
Training sessions should be short and on time to keep your white Pekingese engaged. Positive reinforcement with treats, praise, and pets will help keep them interested and motivated to learn.
Training
The Pekingese is a smart dog that can be trainable, but their enthusiasm for following commands can vary. They might just not see the point in sitting on cue.
These strong-willed dogs will learn best with training games and positive reinforcement. With consistent training, you can help them develop a strong bond with you.
Starting training when your Pekingese is still a puppy can be effective, as it will become a regular part of their day. Keeping the sessions short and on time will give you the best chance of success.
Using plenty of positive reinforcement in the form of treats, praise, and pets will help keep them interested and coming back for more. This will make training a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your Pekingese.
Exercise
The Pekingese is a breed that can thrive with minimal exercise, making it an excellent choice for older people or those with health issues. Short leisurely walks are all they need to stay happy and healthy.
Their low exercise needs also mean that people who work frequently can still provide their pet with enough activity. This is a huge advantage for busy owners.
Short walks are sufficient, as the Pekingese doesn't require long, strenuous exercise sessions.
Puppies and Owning a Dog
Pekingese puppies are playful, curious, and affectionate, making them entertaining to watch and a joy to be around.
They will need plenty of supervision and puppy-proofing to help keep them out of trouble, especially when they're curious about new objects and areas.
Pekingese pet parents should be prepared to spend a lot of time brushing their pup's thick double coat to prevent matting, which can be a challenge but is essential for their grooming needs.
These dogs are also short-faced and brachycephalic, so exercise in hot weather should be avoided to prevent overheating.
Puppies
Puppies can be a handful, especially if you don't supervise them closely. They'll need plenty of attention to keep them out of trouble.
Pekingese puppies are particularly playful and curious, so be prepared for some mischief. They form strong bonds with their owners, but can be stubborn at times.
You'll need to socialize your puppy with other pets, people, and places to help them feel comfortable. This will take some time and effort, but it's essential for their development.
Finding a reputable breeder can be a challenge, especially if you're looking for a specific breed. The cost of your puppy will depend on your location and current demand.
If you're not local to a breeder, you can try finding one online, but be prepared for extra shipping costs.
Owning a Dog
Owning a dog can be a truly rewarding experience, but it's essential to remember that every breed has its unique needs and characteristics.
Most dogs, like Pekingese, are loyal and affectionate, making them great companions.
Pekingese, in particular, are short-faced dogs, which means they're more prone to overheating in hot weather, so exercise should be avoided during this time.
Regular exercise is still crucial for your dog's physical and mental health, but it's vital to consider their breed and adjust accordingly.
A thick double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, which can be a time-consuming but necessary task for Pekingese owners.
Royal Pups
Let's talk about the fascinating history of some breeds. The Pekingese, for instance, were originally created by breeders for the Chinese Imperial family. They were truly royal pups, bred to be companions for royalty.
Their origins are a testament to the special bond between humans and animals. In the case of the Pekingese, this bond was a deliberate creation of breeders who aimed to produce a loyal and loving companion.
These royal pups were meant to be cherished and pampered, and their history reflects the high value placed on their companionship. They were bred to be a symbol of status and luxury, after all.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a white Pekingese cost?
A white Pekingese's price typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on bloodlines and breeder reputation. Expect higher costs for dogs with superior ancestry.
What is the rare color of Pekingese?
The rarest color combination found on Pekingese dogs is blue and gray. This unique color combination sets them apart from other breeds with similar coat characteristics.
Sources
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- The Kennel Club - Pekingese (thekennelclub.org.uk)
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- Animal Corner - Pekingese (animalcorner.org)
- WebMD - What to Know About Pekingese (webmd.com)
- American Kennel Club - Pekingese (akc.org)
- United Kennel Club - Pekingese (ukcdogs.com)
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