Pekingese dogs are an ancient and unique breed that originated in China. With their royal ancestry, the Pekingese have a distinctive appearance and personality which sets them apart from other breeds. Their large, short-muzzled head, wide-set eyes, and envelope-shaped face contribute to their charming and dignified appearance.
These small dogs, weighing only 7-14 pounds and standing 6-9 inches tall, are known for their long and thick double coat that comes in various colors such as gold, red, sable, black and tan, white, cream, and gray. One interesting feature of the Pekingese is their effortless rolling gait, attributed to their short bowed legs and a stocky, muscular body with broad chests.
Pekes are often described as opinionated, aggressive, stubborn, affectionate, intelligent, and good-natured. They have a regal air about them and often demand the best treatment, making them an endearing family companion. Their fearless and devoted nature, combined with their unique characteristics, makes the Pekingese a fascinating breed to learn about and consider as a pet.
Appearance and Physical Characteristics
Size and Weight
The Pekingese is a small, compact dog with a height range of 6 to 9 inches and a weight of up to 14 pounds. They have a sturdy and well-balanced body, making them ideal toy companions.
Coat and Color
The breed’s coat is long and thick, featuring a double-layered texture to provide added warmth and protection. Pekingese come in a variety of coat colors, including gold, red, and sable, as well as black and tan, white, cream, and gray. They sometimes possess a distinctive black mask on their face, further enhancing their unique appearance.
Head and Facial Features
Pekingese have a flat, short snout, which is a result of their brachycephalic (squashed face) feature. Their large, round eyes display an intelligent and expressive gaze. They have naturally floppy ears, contributing to their overall charm and regal appearance.
Tail and Body
The Pekingese has a high-set, tightly curled tail that arches over its back, giving off a sense of nobility. Their body is slightly longer than their height, and their short, bowed legs create a distinctive rolling gait that is unique to the breed. This combination of features results in a sophisticated and charming dog with a strong and confident presence.
Personality and Temperament
General Personality Traits
The Pekingese is a small dog breed with a dignified and regal personality. They are known for their independent nature, loyalty, and affectionate temperament. This breed is often described as bold and confident, displaying courage and assertiveness. Though independent, Pekingese dogs remain loyal and display affection towards their family members.
Intelligence and Training
Pekingese are intelligent dogs with a strong stubborn streak. This can make training more challenging, as they may not always follow commands, especially if they don’t see the need to obey. However, with patience and positive reinforcement, Pekingese can be trained successfully. It is important for owners to establish themselves as the leader and provide consistent guidance.
Socialization and Younger Children
Socialization of Pekingese dogs is crucial to ensure they grow up to be friendly and well-rounded. While they can be affectionate with their families, they might be wary of strangers, due in part to their watchdog origins. It is important to expose Pekingese to a variety of environments and people from an early age to build their social skills.
Pekingese can be good companions for older, respectful children who understand how to handle them properly. However, they may not be the best choice for families with younger children, as they can sometimes be intolerant of rough handling. Supervision during interactions with young children is essential to prevent any mishaps.
Watchdog Abilities
Despite their small size, Pekingese dogs possess remarkable watchdog abilities. They are highly alert and can be quite vocal, making them great for sounding the alarm when something is amiss. Pekingese should not be underestimated due to their size and adorable appearance; they carry a sense of self-esteem and take their role as protectors very seriously.
In summary, the Pekingese is an interesting breed with a blend of independence, loyalty, and affection. They can be a delightful companion for the right family, but their stubborn nature and need for consistent socialization and training should be carefully considered.
