Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small, lion-like toy breed from China with a long, flowing coat and a loyal, confident nature. The Pekingese is affectionate, dignified and calm, a devoted family dog that loves its people deeply — on its own terms.

Quick Facts

• Origin: China
• Group: Toy
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Weight: 3–6 kg
• Height: 15–23 cm at the shoulder
• Temperament: Loyal, confident, independent, dignified
• Good with kids: Yes — best with older children, with supervision
• Good with other pets: Yes, with early socialisation
• Exercise needs: Moderate — about 30 minutes to 1 hour a day
• Grooming: High — long double coat, regular brushing

Temperament & Personality

Pekingese are loyal, confident and deeply loyal to their family. They bond closely with their people and are famously aloof with strangers — a Pekingese will not fawn over someone it does not know. They are calm indoors and love a routine. They are companion dogs through and through: they are dignified, watchful and famously vocal — a Pekingese will bark to warn the family of anything unusual. They can be stubborn, so training needs patience and consistency. They love company but are not needy — a Pekingese is happy to rest nearby and watch over the family.

Health

Pekingese need an honest health note: the breed is flat-faced (brachycephalic), so breathing problems are common — they struggle in heat and should never be over-exercised in hot weather. Other known issues include eye problems, kneecap problems (patellar luxation), heart problems, and back problems (intervertebral disc disease). Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, keep them cool in summer, and see the vet regularly.

Training

Pekingese are intelligent but independent, and training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and early socialisation helps them stay confident with strangers, children and other dogs. House-training can take time, so be patient. Harsh methods damage trust — and a Pekingese remembers.

Food & Nutrition

A Pekingese needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals — two to three small meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. Pekingese are small dogs and should stay lean — you should be able to feel the ribs easily. A vet can advise the right amount for your dog’s age and weight, and fresh water should always be available.

Grooming

The Pekingese’s long double coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent tangles, plus extra care around the ears and legs. Baths only when dirty. The face folds need keeping clean and dry. The ears should be checked weekly, nails trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed daily — small breeds are prone to dental problems. Pekingese shed moderately.

Exercise

A Pekingese needs about 30 minutes to 1 hour of activity a day: short walks, play and training games, plus mental work such as scent games and puzzle feeders. They are small dogs with moderate energy — a Pekingese needs to walk and think every day. Without it, expect barking, chewing and restlessness. Never exercise a Pekingese hard in hot weather.

Is the Pekingese Right for You?

The Pekingese suits calm homes who want a loyal, dignified companion and can give it exercise, training and regular grooming. It does well in flats and houses alike. It is less suited to hot climates, homes with very small children and rough play, or first-time owners.

FAQs

Are Pekingese good for first-time owners?

They can be a handful. Pekingese are loyal and trainable, but their independence, stubbornness and health needs make them a challenging first dog.

Do Pekingese shed a lot?

Moderately. Their long coat sheds all year but is easy to manage with regular brushing.

How much exercise does a Pekingese need every day?

About 30 minutes to 1 hour of short walks and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.

Related Breeds

Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso