Perkingese
Discover the charm of Pekingese dogs with their regal appearance and affectionate nature, ideal for UK pet lovers.
Breed Overview
Personality Traits
History & Background
The Pekingese breed boasts a storied past deeply rooted in the ancient culture of China, believed to date back over a millennium. These regal dogs were once exclusive to the Chinese Imperial Court, where they were held in high esteem, often referred to as "lion dogs" due to their resemblance to Chinese guardian lion statues. The breed's name itself derives from Peking, the former name of Beijing, the capital of China. According to folklore, the Pekingese is the product of love between a lion and a marmoset, magically reduced in size by the Buddha to create this lion-like dog that could accompany nobles and emperors, symbolizing the spiritual protection of the Buddhist law.
The breed remained a closely guarded treasure of the Chinese imperial family, rarely seen outside the royal palaces, and it was not until the 1860 Opium War that the Pekingese was introduced to the Western world. British troops invading the Imperial Palace in Beijing discovered five Pekingese dogs guarding the body of their mistress, who had chosen to end her life rather than face capture. These dogs were taken as spoils of war and presented to Queen Victoria, marking the beginning of the breed's presence in Europe. Queen Victoria's dog, named "Looty," became one of the first recorded Pekingese in the West.
In the early 20th century, the Pekingese breed's popularity soared in England and spread to other parts of the world, including the United States. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognised the breed in 1906. Characterised by their lion-like mane, flat faces, and rolling gait, Pekingese dogs have retained much of their ancestral charm and dignity. Despite their small size, they are known for their courage and confidence, often described as having a "big dog" attitude. The Pekingese continues to be cherished by dog lovers around the globe for its affectionate nature and imperial legacy, embodying a living relic of ancient Chinese culture and history.
Temperament & Personality
The Pekingese, an ancient breed treasured by Chinese royalty, is a dignified and aloof companion, often described as having a "lion's heart." Characterised by its distinctive flat face, luxurious mane, and compact body, the Pekingese is a breed full of personality and regal grace. Despite their small size, they carry themselves with a surprising amount of confidence and self-importance, a testament to their noble heritage.
Pekingese are affectionate and loyal to their families, often forming a particularly strong bond with one person. They delight in being pampered and adored, embodying the essence of a lapdog. However, their royal lineage shines through in their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They are not inclined to please like some other breeds but rather expect their whims to be catered to.
This breed demonstrates a surprising mix of serenity and spirited playfulness. They enjoy being part of their human's everyday life, though they're perfectly content with a more sedentary lifestyle, making them excellent companions for less active households. While they are loving towards their family, Pekingese can be reserved, if not suspicious, around strangers, making them good little watchdogs.
Early socialisation and consistent, gentle training are required to shape a well-mannered Pekingese. Due to their independent streak, training can be somewhat challenging; they respond best to positive reinforcement methods and patience. They possess a sensitive nature, so harsh treatment should be avoided.
In summary, the Pekingese offers an enchanting blend of royalty, loyalty, and individualism. They are best suited to those who appreciate the breed's history and can provide the gentle guidance and affection these little lion-hearted dogs deserve.
Common Health Conditions
Common Health Conditions
The Pekingese, a dignified and loyal companion, is prone to specific health issues due to its distinct physical structure and genetic makeup. Understanding these can be crucial for maintaining their well-being.
1. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Description and Diagnosis: Characterized by upper airway abnormalities due to the dog's short nose and flat face. Symptoms include noisy breathing, snoring, and difficulty exercising. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and may be confirmed by visualizing the airways through radiographs or endoscopy.
Prevention & Management: Avoid obesity, as it exacerbates breathing difficulties. Limit exposure to hot weather and strenuous exercise. In severe cases, surgery to open the airways may be recommended. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor the condition.
2. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Description and Diagnosis: IVDD in Pekingese involves the herniation or degeneration of the discs that cushion the vertebrae. Symptoms range from pain to paralysis. Diagnosis is typically made via MRI or CT scan, following a clinical examination.
Prevention & Management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the spine. Avoid activities that might injure the back, such as jumping from heights. In cases of spinal cord compression, surgery may be necessary, complemented by physical therapy for recovery.
3. Patellar Luxation
Description and Diagnosis: This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap, leading to lameness or an abnormal gait. It's diagnosed through physical palpation and possibly radiographs to evaluate the extent of displacement and any associated arthritic changes.
Prevention & Management: The condition can be managed with weight control, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgical correction may be required to realign the patella and prevent further damage to the joint.
4. Heart Disease (Mitral Valve Disease)
Description and Diagnosis: Mitral valve disease, leading to heart failure, is common in Pekingese. Symptoms include coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. Diagnosis is made through a combination of physical examination, chest X-rays, and echocardiography to assess heart function.
Prevention & Management: Early detection through regular veterinary exams is vital. Treatment may include medications to improve heart function, diuretics to remove fluid build-up, and a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention. Regular follow-up is critical to adjust treatment as the disease progresses.
5. Eye Problems (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
Description and Diagnosis: Also known as dry eye, this condition arises from inadequate tear production, leading to eye irritation and potential damage to the cornea. Diagnosis is confirmed through a Schirmer Tear Test, measuring tear production.
Prevention & Management: Regular eye exams help catch the condition early. Treatment involves medications to stimulate tear production and artificial tears to keep the eyes lubricated. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to preserve vision.
**Summary:** The Pekingese breed is prone to several health conditions, but with proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups, weight management, and avoiding overly strenuous activities, many of these issues can be successfully managed, ensuring a good quality of life for these loyal companions.
Family Life
Pekingese are small, regal dogs that have long been cherished as lap dogs. Their distinct appearance and confident personality make them a unique pet, bringing a touch of imperial grace to any household. Understanding the breed's characteristics is crucial for integrating a Pekingese into your family life harmoniously. Below is what you can anticipate regarding their social traits, training, grooming, housing, and exercise needs.
Friendliness with Children
Pekingese can be good companions for families with children, however, they are best suited for those with older children who understand how to interact with small dogs gently. Younger children may inadvertently handle them too roughly, which might lead to defensive reactions from this breed. Proper introduction and supervision are key to fostering a healthy relationship between a Pekingese and children.
Stranger Friendliness
Pekingese dogs may exhibit cautiousness around strangers, stemming from their loyal and somewhat independent nature. They are not immediately trusting of unfamiliar people, which can make them excellent, albeit small, watchdogs. With proper socialisation from a young age, they can become more accepting of new faces, although they may always retain a degree of reservation around strangers.
Friendliness Towards Other Pets
This breed can coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if they are raised together from a young age. However, their bold personality may lead them to assert dominance over other animals, regardless of size. Introducing a Pekingese to other pets should be done carefully and gradually to ensure harmonious relationships.
Ease of Training
Training a Pekingese can be a challenge owing to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise and treats. Consistency and patience are key. Early socialisation and obedience training are recommended to mould them into well-behaved family members.
Grooming Needs
Pekingese have a beautiful, long, and flowing coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its condition. Daily brushing is ideal, along with regular baths. Attention should also be given to cleaning their facial folds to prevent infection. Despite their grooming needs, many owners find this bonding experience to be rewarding.
Housing Needs
Pekingese are well-suited for apartment living due to their size. They do not require a large yard and are quite happy lounging indoors with their family. However, they should have a comfortable and quiet space of their own where they can retreat when needed. It's important to keep their living area cool as they can be prone to overheating due to their short snouts.
Exercise Needs
Despite their small stature, Pekingese enjoy being active. They do not require vigorous exercise; short, daily walks and playtime will suffice. It's important to monitor them during exercise, especially in hot weather, to prevent overheating and ensure they are staying hydrated.
Bringing a Pekingese into your home means welcoming a dog with a noble heritage and distinctive personality. While they may present some challenges in training and require regular grooming, their loyalty and affection make them delightful companions. With the right care, socialisation, and love, a Pekingese can become a cherished member of any family, adding a touch of imperial elegance to your life.
Exercise & Training
Daily Care Needs for a Pekingese
Exercise Needs
Pekingese are relatively low-energy dogs, making them well-suited to life as a companion animal. While they don’t require extensive exercise, they benefit from daily short walks and play sessions to keep them healthy and happy. Mental stimulation, such as interactive toys or gentle puzzles, can also aid in satisfying their exercise needs without overly taxing them physically.
Training
Training a Pekingese can be somewhat challenging due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. This breed responds best to positive reinforcement methods including treats, praise, and gentle encouragement. Early socialisation and consistent, patient training practices are essential to help them learn commands and adapt to various situations. While they may not excel in advanced obedience training, they can achieve good manners with dedication.
Grooming
The Pekingese boasts a luxurious double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its glory. Daily brushing is ideal to prevent mats and tangles, particularly around the areas prone to knotting, such as behind the ears and around the legs. Occasional baths and routine care, such as dental hygiene and nail clipping, are necessary to keep them in top condition. Their coat does shed seasonally, which may require more frequent grooming during those times.
Housing Needs
Pekingese are ideally suited to apartment living given their small size and moderate activity levels. They thrive in a secure and comfortable environment where they can safely explore and relax. Although they are not overly demanding of space, a cosy area filled with soft bedding and toys will greatly contribute to their well-being. It's essential to provide them with indoor comfort, as they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures due to their flat faces.
Social Traits
Pekingese are known for their loyal and devoted nature, often forming strong bonds with their families. They can be friendly and affectionate with children, although supervision is advisable to ensure gentle interactions. While they can be wary of strangers, early socialisation helps them develop a more accepting attitude. In terms of other pets, they typically coexist well if introduced properly, although they may prefer the companionship of other dogs of similar temperament.
Diet & Nutrition
As a Pekingese owner, it is vital to prioritise a diet that caters specifically to the breed's needs, considering their small size and unique health requirements. Opting for premium quality dog food that is specially formulated for small breeds can ensure that your Pekingese receives the correct balance of nutrients suitable for their energy levels. Pekingese are prone to weight gain, so it's important to closely monitor their portion sizes and avoid overfeeding them. Given their brachycephalic (flat-faced) nature, they may also require food that is easier to pick up and chew. Furthermore, considering their long, luxurious coat, incorporating foods that support skin and coat health, with ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, can be particularly beneficial. Additionally, ensuring they have continuous access to fresh water is essential for maintaining good health and hydration. Regular consultations with a vet can also provide tailored dietary recommendations to meet the specific health requirements of your Pekingese, helping to keep them happy and thriving for years to come.