Before You Adopt
Tips for finding the best cat or dog for you; plus: preparing for a puppy
Adopt a Pekingese
Picture: Yann Arthus-Bertrand/Corbis
Family:
companion
Area of origin:
China
Original function:
lap dog
Average size of male:
Ht: 6-9, Wt: <14
Average size of female:
Ht: 6-9, Wt: <14
Other names:
lion dog, Peking palasthund
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Energy
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Exercise
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Playfulness
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Affection
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Friendliness towards dogs
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Friendliness towards other pets
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Friendliness towards strangers
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Ease of training
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Watchdog ability
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Protection ability
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Grooming
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Cold tolerance
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Heat tolerance
Pekingese Dogs Available on Petfinder Right Now
See more adoptable Pekingese dogs available on Petfinder
Pekingese Dog Temperament
The Pekingese is decidedly not a sissy lap dog. She is a courageous character that will not start a fight but will not back down from one either. She tends to be aloof around strangers. She is extremely devoted to her family, but is independent and not overly demonstrative. Her stubbornness is legendary. Although playful around family members.
Pekingese Dog Care
The Pekingese enjoys a leisurely walk outdoors, but she is equally happy to romp inside. She can easily die of heat prostration. She must be kept in air conditioning in warm weather. She is an ideal apartment dog. The coat will mat unless combed at the very least weekly, preferably more often. The over-nose wrinkle should be cleaned daily to avoid infection. The coat around the anus must be inspected daily for soiling. Pekingese tend to snore!
Pekingese Dog Health
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, KCS, patellar luxation, disticiasis, trichiasis, skin fold dermatitis
Occasionally seen: urolithiasis
Suggested tests: knee, (eye)
Life span: 13-15 years
Note: The breed is sensitive to anesthesia and does not tolerate heat well. She is also prone to corneal abrasions. Puppies must often be delivered by Caesarian.
Dogs Related to the Pekingese
Brussels Griffon
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chihuahua
Chinese Crested Dog
English Toy Spaniel
Japanese Chin
Maltese
Papillon
Shih Tzu
Shelters with Pekingese Dogs
Some animal welfare organizations with Pekingeses ready for adoption:
