Pekingese

7-13 lbs
6-9"
China
Foo Dog, Lion Dog, Peking Palasthund, Peke, Sundog, Sleeve Dog, Pelchie

The Pekingese has a pampered past and were treated as royalty by the Chinese. The first record of a Pekingese was the 8th century in the T’ang Dynasty. They were bred to be lap dogs and were named after the city of Peking, which is now called Beijing. They are tiny, toy breed dogs with a flat face, furry mane (like a lion), floppy ears, and a confident expression. The Chinese believed the Pekingese was the offspring of a lion that fell in love with a marmoset. They come in many colors such as black, cream, fawn, gray, red, sable, red, and white.

purpose Purpose
Lap dog
history Date of Origin
8th Century
ancestry Ancestry
Unknown

Pekingese Health

Sketch of Pekingese
Average Size
Male Pekingese size stats
Height: 6-9 inches Weight: 8-14 lbs
Female Pekingese size stats
Height: 6-9 inches Weight: 7-13 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Entropion
  • Skin Fold Dermatitis
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome
  • Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome
Minor Concerns
  • KCS
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Eye Disease
  • Mitral Valve Disease
Occasional Tests
  • Eye
  • Knee
  • Heart
  • X-Rays
  • Eye Examination
  • Physical Examination
  • Respiratory Tests

Pekingese Breed History

According to legend, the Pekingese is a result of a lion and a marmoset who fell in love. The legend also says that they were named Lion dogs because they looked like the ancient guard lions of China that were called Shishi or Pelchie dogs. It was believed that these dogs had mystical powers that could protect the palaces and temples. They were only owned by royalty during that time and they were so revered that they had their own servants. The penalty for stealing one was death. In addition, when a member of royalty died, their dog was euthanized and buried with their master to accompany them to the afterlife. During the 8th century, the Pekingese was treated like royalty and never allowed to leave the palace until the discovery of the breed during the Opium Wars of 1860. Five Pekingese were found during the invasion of the Imperial Summer Palace and were brought to Britain where one was given to Queen Victoria. She named him Looty because of how the dogs were acquired. Once the Pekingese was brought to Britain, they immediately became popular but their rarity caused the price to be too much for anyone but the most wealthy. In the old days, Pekingese were once called Sleeve Pekingese because they were carried in the large sleeves of the royal robes worn in the palaces. The Pekingese was accepted into the American Kennel Club around 1906 and is the 93rd most popular dogs in the United States.

Pekingese Breed Appearance

The Pekingese coat is long and comes in many colors such as white; red sable; red; gray; fawn sable; fawn; cream; black and tan; black; and biscuit. Some of the markings include a black muzzle with white markings; black muzzle; black mask with white markings; black face with white markings; black face; white markings; parti-color; and a black mask. They resemble tiny lions with a body that is heavier in the front than the back, a rolling gait, extravagant coat, thick mane, dense undercoat, and coarse overcoat. The Pekingese is well balanced and compact with an independent and courageous expression. They are usually under 14 pounds and about 8 inches tall. The head is massive and broad with a flat face, black nose and lips, and dark eyes. The ears are shaped like hearts and lie against the head. Feathering and fringing of the coat at the ears, chest, and underside is normal. Because of the flattened face, certain illnesses and breathing difficulties are expected.

Appearance of Pekingese
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Pekingese eyes
Brown
Nose Color Possibilities
black Pekingese nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
black Pekingese coat
Black
fawn Pekingese coat
Fawn
cream Pekingese coat
Cream
brindle Pekingese coat
Brindle
gray Pekingese coat
Gray
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Pekingese straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Pekingese Breed Maintenance

The Pekingese is a high maintenance breed because they need to be brushed thoroughly on a daily basis. This should be done with a small bristle brush after spritzing conditioning spray or water on the coat. This prevents the hair from breaking when brushed. You have to be sure to brush them all the way to the skin to remove the dead hair and avoid mats. A metal comb is best to use on the fringed areas to help loosen tangled fur. It is best to trim the hair on the feet to prevent mats and the attachment of foreign objects . You should bathe your Pekingese at least twice per month with conditioning shampoo recommended by a veterinarian. A dry shampoo is sometimes used between shampoos to keep the fur healthy and clean. Check your dog’s ears weekly for wax, dirt, and debris. You also need to brush your dog’s teeth often because Pekingese are sometimes prone to dental issues and bad breath. They need plenty of exercise and should be walked daily to work off that excess energy.

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Brushes for Pekingese
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Comb
Scissors
Scissors
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Pekingese requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Pekingese Temperament

The Pekingese is an independent and headstrong dog with very little fear so they will go after animals 10 times their size without thinking twice in order to protect their family. This quality makes them very good watchdogs but it can also get them into trouble due to their small size. They can be stubborn and difficult to housebreak but if you use crate training and stick to a schedule, they can be taught to do what they are supposed to do. The Pekingese like children but are better with children over five years old. They do not like to be teased or woken up and can be quite noisy if left alone. The Pekingese can get along well with other dogs if they are socialized when young. They make excellent lap dogs because that is what they were bred for so as long as you have the patience to train your dog, the Pekingese should be a wonderful addition to your family.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
6 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
20 minutes
activity minutes

Pekingese Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$0.75 - $1.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$25.00 - $30.00
food bag monthly cost

Pekingese Height & Weight

6 Months
Sketch of Pekingese at six months
Male Pekingese size stats at six months
Height: 3.5 inches Weight: 3.5 lbs
Female Pekingese size stats at six months
Height: 3.5 inches Weight: 3.5 lbs
12 Months
Sketch of Pekingese at 12 months
Male Pekingese size stats at 12 months
Height: 5.5 inches Weight: 4.0 lbs
Female Pekingese size stats at 12 months
Height: 5.0 inches Weight: 4.0 lbs
18 Months
Sketch of Pekingese at 18 months
Male Pekingese size stats at 18 months
Height: 7.5 inches Weight: 6.5 lbs
Female Pekingese size stats at 18 months
Height: 6.5 inches Weight: 6.5 lbs

Top Pekingese Breeders

Check out who made our list for the most reputable Pekingese breeders of 2024.
Top Pekingese breeder Quidnunc Kennel
Quidnunc Kennel
Lake Waukomis, Missouri
Top Pekingese breeder Caney Creek Pekingese
Caney Creek Pekingese
Pall Mall, Tennessee
Top Pekingese breeder Oakhill Pekingese
Oakhill Pekingese
Salem, Oregon
Top Pekingese breeder Lon-Du Pekingese
Lon-Du Pekingese
Monticello, Iowa
Top Pekingese breeder Desert Jade Pekingese
Desert Jade Pekingese
Las Vegas, Nevada

Pekingese Owner Experiences

Charlie
10 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
loving, protective, loyal, fearless
2 years, 4 months ago
Ruby
12 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
So loving, protective and loyal
6 years, 5 months ago
Nikkichin
13 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She so lovable and loyal protective of her surrounding and home and Master. Watching her in the backyard running and playing we live next to a park, Nikki looks thru the fence to the other dogs running in the park.
6 years, 5 months ago
6 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Sniffing
eating
Laying down
this Dog is very spoil, it likes to go for walks but it only takes care of business, and wants to come back. very aware of the surrounding, and loyal.Sweet with estrangers, it won't bite you when u come in. will just sniff to approve ;)
6 years, 4 months ago
8 Years
People
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Explore the city
Walk
This gal had the dog stomach flu the first time I met her, she nonetheless was still full of energy and ready to hit the sidewalk. She was very interested in sniffing everything and exploring every inch of the sidewalk and was relatively difficult to corral—she didn't have to many of her commands down very well, was not interested in the treats that I had, and was not particularly interested in my affection. Although she's very small, she had no problem keeping up a good pace during our walk. She's got a big personality and a lot of energy for her size. She had gotten over her doggy flu the next time we hung out and was a little more personable, but she was primarily occupied with the sights and sounds around us. It was surprising to see how unphased she was over loud noises and bigger dogs; she's a forward little dog with a big personality.
6 years, 4 months ago
Oscar
4 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
training
Training and fetch
Love getting to know him he is amazing
5 years, 10 months ago
Gee
1 Year
8 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is good for our family
3 years, 10 months ago
Kooper
8 Weeks
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
This is my first Pekingese but I love him. He is very active (only 8 weeks old) and loves to play but very vocal. He is very opinionated and if he doesn't like something he will definitely let you know.
5 years, 7 months ago
Charlotte
4 Years
1 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Charlotte is a rescue dog whom I adopted from her Foster owner 6 months ago. She is highly intelligent and quickly and willingly adjusted to her new living conditions with me. Charlotte is very flexible, enjoying both lying around the house or going on adventurous walks. During warm weather it is very important to not over exert Pekes. Frequent rest stops are necessary, as is hydration (bring water along). If your Peke starts to pant excessivly, stop the walk and carry her back. Also carry her over steps as their legs and joints though quite stocky are too small to do climbing. Pekes are good with people and other dogs, but on their own terms. If they happen to feel moody, or if handled in a way percieved as a threat, they can snap suddenly at the handler. For this reason extra care and vigilance is needed during interaction with kids and older folks. Pekes also snore at night, ranging from mild to wild. If left alone, chances are good they will bark a lot at outside noises which comes with the breed and is instinctive, not abberent behavior- they were purposfully bred as guard dogs and are very good at it. Not however a good fit for apartments with other units in close proximity where the dog can be heard. Pekes are loyal, sometimes fiercly so, smart, loving and moody, adaptable to your moods also and very attentive to and attached to their owners without being clingy. A great breed.
5 years, 6 months ago
Nino
8 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
gardening
Tug-of-war
General training games
Fetch
Super loving dog. Very demanding from the onset as a young puppy but as soon as we began training consistently it latched on to what it has learnt. Learns whatever you teach super easy with treats and does well with good affectionate discipline. Pekes will be loving to whoever as long as you teach and practice the same.
4 years, 10 months ago
Minnie
7 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Minnie was adopted at birth. She was our first dog and we spoiled her rotten. Minnie weighs 10 pounds and has a beautiful face; her fur is sable. She is temperamental, very funny, and smart. Minnie understands many words and sentences. She also makes a large variety of noises as a response to stimuli. She loves full body massages and walks through the neighborhood. If we give more attention to our other dog, she becomes jealous. She can be unpredictable and if in a bad mood, will bite. Nevertheless we love her just as she is. Minnie is the queen of the house!
4 years, 9 months ago
Darby
7 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
snuggling
Snow play
socializing
grooming
Walks
Darby is my first Pekingese & I got him @ almost 4 months old from a friend of his breeder. He is sweet natured, loving & very sociable with humans and other animals. He loves belly rubs and nature walks but his favorite activity is hopping around in New snow like a bunny! I've nicknamed him my "Himalayan Mt. dog. 😂💞 He's been a great fit with my family & is great with kids, although a bit over exuberant at times. Due to his short snout he snores loud, sneezes on people when playing & requires short breaks when playing or during walks. His health overall is good but had a back injury when he was around 4 & as a result, can't be as active as he once was. He still manages to amaze me with his big personality & spirit. He's just a pleasure to have in my life.
3 years, 2 months ago
Typhoon Chandler Ping
4 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I love my Typhoon andi think this breed is absolutely perfect. He's not a barker, he isn't needy, he loves to snuggle!
3 years, 2 months ago
Angel
10 Weeks
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Snuggling,playing and car rides
Playing, snuggling
Angel is only 10 weeks old. I bought him for my Daughter after the loss of my Mother and her Dad. Angel has brought joy and life into our home! At times he is rambunctious and other times he's just like a newborn baby who just want snuggles and kisses..especially before bedtime. Our Peke is a Sleeve Peke..very tiny so we are careful where and how we step.
2 years, 9 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Other
Question

where can I find a pekingese adult dog ?

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - My pet
Question

I have a year and a half old Pekingnese-Shihtzu Mix. He weighs 7 pounds and his name is Murphy. I love to walk 2-3 miles every day and I'm wondering if it's safe to take my dog with me? He's the sweetest dog, and I love going for long walks, but I don't want to hurt him. I've always had large dogs in the past who loved going for walks with me. I'd like to take my little guy along, too, if it's safe. Thank you, Paulet Duck

Answer
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd