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Characteristics, History, and Health
Pekingese
Pekingese dogs have a history spanning over 2000 years, tracing back to ancient China, where they were revered as a sacred breed. They were bred for the Chinese imperial families and symbolized the lion in Buddhist mythology. Stealing or harming one of these imperial dogs was punishable by death. Pekingeses got their name from the city of Beijing (formerly Peking). It wasn't until the 1860 invasion of Beijing by British troops that the breed was introduced to the Western world.
Main Info
- Origin
- China
- Lineage
- Toy Dog Lineage
- Alternate Names
- Lion Dog, Sun Dog, Sleeve Dog, Peke, Peking Lion Dog
- Life Expectancy
- 12-14 years
- Average Male Height
- 6-9 inches
- Average Female Height
- 6-9 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 14 pounds & under
- Average Female Weight
- 14 pounds & under
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Double
- Coat Colors
- Biscuit, Black, Black & Tan, Cream, Fawn, Fawn Brindle, Gray, Red, Red Brindle, Red Sable, White, Fawn Sable, Gray Sable, Light Red
- Coat Pattern
- White Markings, Black Mask, Parti-Color, Black Mask with White Markings, Black Face, Black Face with White Markings, Black Muzzle, Black Muzzle with White Markings
Genetic Predispositions and Health
The Pekingese may suffer from elongated soft palate, patellar luxation, stenotic nares, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), trichiasis, corneal abrasions, distichiasis, skin fold dermatitis, and urolithiasis. They are also known to be heat intolerant and sensitive to anesthesia, so the latter is important to discuss before any planned surgery.
Personality and Behavior
Pekingese dogs are known for their independent and dignified personality. They are loyal, affectionate, and make excellent companions. They can be wary of strangers but are generally good with children and other pets if properly socialized. Despite their small size, they are courageous and have a somewhat stubborn streak, which can make training a challenge at times. Regular mental stimulation and moderate exercise are important for this breed.
Toy Lineage
A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).
Breeds within the toy dog lineage were developed to be companion animals. They originated as lap dogs for royalty, nobility, and affluent individuals, and typically weigh less than 15 pounds. Breeds within the toy dog lineage were bred to be friendly and sociable, playful, and energetic while also having a heightened awareness of their environment.
Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Chihuahua, Maltese, and Shih Tzu.
Fun Facts
The Pekingese has a distinctive facial feature known as a "mane" or "ruff," which is reminiscent of a lion's mane.
Pekingese Foo Dog idols are sacred symbols that have been handed down throughout generations in China.
Five Pekingeses survived the sinking of the Titanic, showing the breed's resilience.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pekingese/
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/PEKINGESE-207.html
https://www.ukcdogs.com/pekingese
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