Pekingese
Sometimes affectionately called the Peke, and also known as “lion dog”, the Pekingese make good-natured, affectionate pets. Their legacy in Chinese royalty has nurtured their confidence and intelligence, as well as its lion-like image.
Appearance
The Pekingese have a compact, pear-shaped body with heavy forequarters and light hindquarters. They stand 6 to 9 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 7 to 14 pounds, a weight that is surprising for the Pekingese’s size. It has a lion-like image, implying courage and dignity, due to a coat around the shoulders forming a mane. They have a double coat consisting of a coarse, straight outer coat with a thick, soft undercoat. Pekingese can be of any color - including black, tan, cream, gray, red, white, or fawn - and often have a black mask. They should be brushed often to reduce hair in the home.
Personality
Similar to a lion, Pekingese can be proud, confident dogs. Likewise, they can be stubborn. If properly trained, they can be devote, affectionate family dogs. They are playful with familiar people and animals but, due to their flat faces, rough play should be discouraged as their eyes can be prone to injury. They make functional watchdogs and will bark at strangers.
History
Certain forms of Buddhism claim that the lion is the exalted symbol of Buddha. It was this belief that led owners to breed Foo dogs, which resembled lions somewhat, to accentuate those features. Breeding practices eventually became the domain of royalty and, at the height of their favor, Pekingese were pampered by personal servants as if they were royalty themselves. The breed was brought to Britain in the 1860s and, due to their unique features, created fervor amongst dog fanciers. Despite this, their numbers rose slowly and were reserved for the wealthy. Today, the breed has become readily available and, perhaps, has suffered from over-popularity.
Care
Pekingese enjoy short, leisurely walks and romps outside during cool days. They do poorly in hot weather and can easily die of heat prostration. As such, during hot days, it is advised that Pekingese be kept inside with air conditioning. They should always sleep inside and are an ideal apartment dog. The coat needs to be combed at least weekly to prevent matting. The over-nose wrinkle of the Pekingese requires cleaning to prevent infection, as does the hair around anus. Some have reported that the Pekingese has a tendency to snore.
Health
Pekingese have several health concerns that, while minor, can be debilitating. Pekingese have been reported with stenotic nares, KCS, and patellar luxation: they should have their knees and eyes tested regularly. Of special note is the breed’s sensitivity to anesthesia, susceptibility to corneal abrasions, and that Pekingese puppies must often be delivered via Caesarian. The average expected lifespan of the Pekingese is 13 to 15 years.
Conditions Summary
- Stenotic Nares: a congenital disorder where malformed nostrils restrict the dog’s air intake.
- Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS): inadequate tear production that can lead to more serious eye infections.
- Patellar Luxation: a condition where the knee cap moves out of position momentarily, can lead to lameness.
References
The Complete Dog Book. New York: Ballantine Books, 2006. Print.
"Pekingeses: A Guide to Dogs and Puppies of the Pekingese Breed." The Dog Guide: Helping You Find Your Perfect Dog.
"Animal Planet :: Dog Breed Profile :: Pekingese." Animal Planet : Pets, Wild Animals, Dog Breeds, Cat Breeds.
"American Kennel Club - Pekingese." American Kennel Club - Akc.org.
"Choosing a Pekingese." Pet Place:Pet Care Information - Pet Information - Pet Health Information.
"Stenotic Nares: A Congenital Disorder of the Nose in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.
"Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or Dry Eye in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.
"Luxating Patella: A Knee Problem in Dogs." Pet Health Care | Dog and Cat Behavior Information by Veterinarians.
