Pekingese: a small dog with a great temperament and a very fluffy coat

Origin: China

Lifespan: 12-15 years

Activity level: moderate

Grooming: require daily brushing and professional groomer

History

The Pekingese comes from China, where it is one of the oldest dog breeds, known since ancient times. For centuries, it was treated as a sacred dog of the emperors of China and was known as the "Lion Dog". In ancient China, Pekingese dogs were bred exclusively in imperial palaces. They were considered guardians of temples and symbols of wealth and power. They were often worn in the wide sleeves of Chinese robes, which is where the name "sleeve dog" comes from. In 1860, during the Second Opium War, the British captured the Summer Palace in Beijing and brought several Pekingese to England. One of them went to Queen Victoria. From that moment on, the breed began to gain popularity in Europe. The Pekingese was recognized by the British Kennel Club in 1898 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1906.

Personality

The Pekingese is a loyal, intelligent and brave dog that can be a great companion for people who appreciate its unique appearance and personality. It requires regular care and attention, but in return offers a lot of love and affection. Due to health predispositions, owners should regularly consult a veterinarian and provide appropriate health care.

Pekingese are small dogs, 15-23 cm tall and weighing 3-6 kg. The coat is long, thick and double-layered. The color can be varied, often gold, red, black, white or fawn. The structure of the Pekingese is a short, massive body with a wide chest. They have short, thick legs and a characteristic, slightly curled tail. The head is large in proportion to the rest of the body, with a short and flat muzzle. The eyes are large, round and dark, with an expression of intelligence and tenderness. The ears are long, hanging, with a lot of hair.

Pekingese are very attached to their owners, but can be a bit reserved with strangers. They are loyal, brave and often act as guard dogs, despite their small size. They are intelligent, but can be independent and stubborn. Training requires patience and consistency. They have average energy levels. They like short walks and games, but are also happy to laze around at home. They can be difficult to train due to their independence and stubbornness. They require a gentle but firm approach. They are sociable, but often choose one person as their favorite. They can be territorial and don't always get along well with other dogs.

Health

Health problems to which the breed is prone to: respiratory problems (due to their flat muzzle, Pekingese often suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which causes breathing difficulties), eye problems (cataracts, corneal ulcers and corneal dystrophy), orthopedic problems ( hip dysplasia, patella luxation), skin problems (due to their long fur and skin folds, they may be susceptible to skin infections and allergies), heart problems (they are at risk of various heart problems such as congestive heart failure).

Pekingese require regular grooming of their coat, including daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Regular bathing and hair trimming are also recommended. Their ears, eyes and teeth should be checked regularly and their oral hygiene maintained.