Can a little dog have a big dog personality? With a Peke, you bet! Their lion-like faces match their Leo-like characteristics: fearless, bold and independent. Be patient with early training and your Pekingese will repay you with love and loyalty in spades.
Size:
7-14 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
Pekingese don’t need a ton of exercise and because of their double coat, it’s a good idea to take them on leisurely walks outdoors (as opposed to vigorous runs) to prevent overheating. Don’t keep your Peke outside too long in extreme temperatures as their flattened face and nose can cause breathing problems in very cold or hot weather.
Mess Factor:
Pekingese shed all year round. Expect to find remnants of their long, coarse hair on your furniture and clothing. Brushing your Peke regularly can help to reduce the amount of hair around the house.
Barking and Volume:
Pekingese tend to bark at strangers and other dogs. Frequent exercise as well as training can help tame this habit. Note: Because of their small faces, Peke’s tend to snore, sneeze, and snuffle a lot, too. That’s something you’ll need to be able to live with. No amount of training is going to stop them from sneezing.
Training Requirements:
Much to the chagrin of new pet parents, Pekes are notoriously difficult to housebreak. They are inherently strong willed and seem to carry a “Don’t tell me what to do” look on their faces at all times (which is amusing). A puppy class may be helpful.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: The breed is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, obesity, cancer, heart disease and skin problems. *A responsible breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming is adequate.
Training: Basic training. A puppy class will do.
Grooming Requirements:
While Pekes look like little balls of fur, they are considered “average” shedders, which means that a thorough brushing once a week is enough to keep loose hair at bay.
Kid Compatibility:
This breed fares better with adults or families with older children. Pekes don’t tolerate teasing and can’t handle rough play due to their small size.
Longevity:
13-15 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
Pekes can be wary other dogs at first but these perky pooches will exhibit their playfulness in time. A note of caution: Though Pekes are not confrontational, they’re not afraid to bark at even the biggest dogs — a testament to their history of being a watchdog for royalty in China.
Friendliness: Towards People
With their strong protective vibe, Pekes prefer to stand by their parents rather than to initiate other human friendships. They will eventually open up to a new human BFF with time.
BE PREPARED FOR: Lots of snorting, snoring and sleeping. But when they’re awake, expect an adorable, playful dog.
