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Breeds 101: Meet the Pekingese, the dignified lion dog

By Vanessa Rodriguez

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 06: A Pekingese waits for judging on day two of the annual Crufts dog show at the National Exhibition Centre on March 6, 2009 in Birmingham, England. During this year's four-day competition nearly 23,000 dogs and their owners will vie for a variety of accolades but ultimately seeking the coveted 'Best In Show'. Amid controversy over the breeding and welfare of dogs the main sponsors Pedigree and the BBC have this year dropped out of the world's biggest dog show. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 06: A Pekingese waits for judging on day two of the annual Crufts dog show at the National Exhibition Centre on March 6, 2009 in Birmingham, England. During this year's four-day competition nearly 23,000 dogs and their owners will vie for a variety of accolades but ultimately seeking the coveted 'Best In Show'. Amid controversy over the breeding and welfare of dogs the main sponsors Pedigree and the BBC have this year dropped out of the world's biggest dog show. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) /
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Step back Shih Tzus and Pomeranians, there is a new king in town. The Pekingese is the face of royalty. These pups will woo and awe anyone in need of a companion dog.

The Pekingese is a one of a kind. Originating from China, they weren’t taken out of the country until the 19th century. The first Pekingese in America wasn’t seen until 1906. Today it still stands as one of the rarest small breeds.

Its history in China dates back 2,000 years. The breed, according to myth, was created by Buddha a himself. With such a prestigious myth surrounding their origins, it’s no wonder they became the dogs to the imperial family.

Their royal upbringing extends to their temperament.

Extremely dignified and intelligent they make great lap dogs. However, they are known for stubborn streaks, like most world leaders. They will openly defy and challenge you. These dogs are difficult to train. Start at a young age with proper positive reinforcement, this will socialize your Pekingese and keep them from becoming aggressive.

Exposing them to other people and animals is necessary if you want your pup friendly. They are suspicious of strangers, and will keep close to their loved ones. Highly affectionate dogs, they have the potential for social temperaments. Just don’t expect them to like everyone.

Similar to any small animal, be careful with children. While the Pekingese is kind enough, they will become nippy if yanked by a naïve child. Always watch your kids around small breeds, they are both vulnerable to getting hurt by one another.

Based on the Pekingese appearance, it is clear that they are high maintenance dogs. They will need training, but just as important, they will need grooming everyday. Due to their deep face folds they are prone to skin irritations like fold dermatitis. So wipe down their face with a damp cotton ball. Brush their coat weekly to keep their mane untangled and manageable. Be sure to trim the hair around their feet, items will get stuck to it and it makes it hard for them to have grip on smooth surfaces.

Their long coats and short noses make them sensitive to heat so make sure they have good ventilation.

An air-conditioned setting works best.  Their short noses also make their snores frequent, so keep the ear plugs handy.

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The Pekingese is a perfect apartment dog, but give them plenty of room to run around. They are immensely curious, and seeing as they become lazy, an active lifestyle will keep their energy up. Pekingese are sensitive to over feeding, so keep a regular schedule with prescribed portioning.

They are subject to most small breed health issues. Such as patellar luxation (the patella is not properly aligned) and brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS). This syndrome is common in short-faced small breeds, they suffer from a difficulty to breath due to narrowed nostrils and airways. So keep your Pekingese out of the heat, panting and heaving can worsen these symptoms.

Next. Teacup pups come pocket size. dark

The Pekingese is a dog to pamper. They will reward you with partnership and a loving dog that’s fun to look at.

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