Pekingese

Pekingese bred to live a life as pampered royal pets in the castles of Chinese emperors; Pekingese are known as “lion dogs” for their stocky build and long manes.

History

Pekingese, an ancient breed of toy dog created in China, had been held sacred, and it was kept as a palace dog by persons in the imperial family. It was brought to the West by British forces that looted the Imperial Palace at Beijing in 1860.

Physical Appearance

The Pekingese features a noticeably large head with a vast flat top balanced through the vast set and watchful eyes.

Height

6 to 9 inches

Weight

Approximately 14 lbs.

Life-Span

12 to 14 years

Temperament

Gentle

Detached

Stubborn

Clever

Susceptible Disease

Cleft Palate

Cryptorchidism (Undescended testicles)

Trachoma infection

Hydrocephalus

Dry eye disease

Mitral regurgitation

Exposure keratitis

Degenerative disc disease

Care and Grooming

The double-coated Pekingese requires good maintenance. A metal comb or slicker brush might be worked out for brushing Pekingese for about sixty minutes a week to help remove tangles or mats. Pekingese nails must be cut routinely, as long nails might be hurtful for dog.