Should you get a Pekingese?
There are all sorts of interesting dog breeds out there, and the Pekingese is certainly one of them. This breed is known for its playful temperament and loyalty. If you’re thinking about adding a Pekingese to your family, here are 14 interesting facts you need to know about them first!
Pekingese dogs were originally bred
in China as companions for Chinese royalty and were considered sacred animals. They have a long and fascinating history dating back over 2,000 years, with written records dating as far back as the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). The breed was named after the ancient Chinese city of Beijing, which was once known as Peking.
Pekingese dogs were traditionally used
as lap dogs and were kept by members of the Chinese imperial court. They were often given as gifts to foreign dignitaries and were highly prized for their loyalty and affectionate nature. The breed was also believed to have magical powers, and it was thought that they could ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to their owners. They were bred to resemble the “Foo Dog”.
Pekingese dogs first appeared in the West
in the 19th century when British and French troops sacked the Summer Palace in Beijing during the Second Opium War in 1860. Among the treasures they brought back to Europe were several Pekingese dogs, which quickly became popular with European nobility. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1906 and has since become a beloved pet all over the world.
In Landmark Research on Modern Dog Breed
development, the Pekingese has been shown to share the most DNA with an ancestor of the following breeds:
Shih Tzu
Tibetan Spaniel
Lhasa Apso
Pekingese dogs don’t need a lot
of exercise and a daily 20-minute brisk walk is typically sufficient to maintain their happiness and good health. They move with a distinctive gait, almost like a strut, where they move with a self-assured and dignified demeanor, swaying gracefully from side to side.
According to AKC Breed Standard
the Pekingese can reach up to 9 inches in height and up to 14 pounds in weight. All colors and color combinations are permitted in a Pekingese coat.
Pekingese Require Constant
grooming and brushing. Pekingese should be brushed several times a week, even daily, especially during the shedding seasons. If they are not brushed regularly, their fur will get matted and tangled. Their grooming needs are high.
Growing Up Pekingese
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How Fast Can a Pekingese Run?
The AKC Conducts Dog Racing Trials each December in Orlando, FL. called the Fast CAT Invitational. This is a 100 yard race where dogs run individually chasing a lure. The average running speed by Pekingese is about 10 mph. The fastest recorded speed by a Pekingese was by a dog named They Call Me Mister! at 18.63 mph!
Pekingese generally make very
good watch dogs. They are alert, and while they may not display an intimidating physical presence, they will let you know when a stranger is around!
The CBARQ Dog Temperament Research
study, conducted at the University of Pennsylvania, is a giant study of over 300 dog breeds and 60,000 individual dogs. In this study, the Pekingese ranks 7 out of 124 breeds in displaying dog rivalry. They may act hostile or threatening towards other dogs in the house and tend to be very “competitive” with them. They may require training and supervision to lessen this trait.
In this Same Research
the Pekingese ranks VERY high (12 out of 124 breeds) in displaying aggression towards other unfamiliar dogs. They also rank very high in showing aggression towards unfamiliar people. Aggression is defined as a dog’s reaction when another person or canine enters their personal space/territory. It can be trough barking, growling, bearing teeth or, in extreme cases, lunging or biting.
Pekingese Humor!
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In the Landmark Book
entitled, “The Intelligence of Dogs”, professor Stanley Coren researched and documented the intelligence of over 130 different dog breeds. In his book, the Pekingese ranks 73 out of 138 breeds in working/obedience intelligence. Essentially this means they will learn new commands in 80 to 100 repetitions and obey first commands less than 25% of the time. This puts them in the “lowest working and obedience intelligence” category. In contrast, the most intelligent breeds will learn the same command in 5 repetitions or less!
Pekingese Have an Average
lifespan of 12-14 years, with 15-18 years not being uncommon. They are generally healthy, but are prone to Proptosis. This happens when the eyeball is displaced from the eye socket. It is usually the result of trauma like a hard blow to the back of the head. Immediate care and treatment will usually clear up the problem. They may also suffer from patellar luxation-or a knee cap that pops out of place.
As a Brachycephalic breed
Pekingese have a shorter snout and compressed airways, which can cause them to snore and snort. And when they sneeze, it can turn into a rather amusing display. Unfortunately, this adorable physical characteristic can also be the cause of health problems such as Brachycephalic Syndrome. Care should be taken with these pups in hot weather.
Check Your Pekingese Facts and Take a Fun Pekingese Quiz!
Facts About the Pekingese-Final Thoughts
Pekingese dogs are wonderful animals that encompass a unique combination of traits and characteristics. Known as lion dogs, their small size and toy breed status make them the perfect choice for those seeking a pint-sized canine companion with a lot of spunk. Despite their compact stature, Pekingese dogs possess a muscular body that adds to their regal presence. Their flat face and short muzzle give them an adorable appearance that is further accentuated by their thick double coat. Not only are they affectionate little dogs, but they also excel at being good watchdogs, always alert and ready to protect their Pekingese owners. It’s worth noting that these intelligent pups require mental stimulation to thrive, making interactive playtime a good way to keep them happy and engaged. Pekingese dogs are truly the best of both worlds – a small dog with a big personality and an unwavering devotion to their human companions.
