Pekes are playful and very loyal.
Photo: John Daniels/Bruce Coleman, Inc.
Height: 8-9 inches
Weight: 8-14 lbs.
Life Span: 13-15 yrs.
Breed Group:
Companion DogsOverviewSome Pekes are stubborn and independent, making obedience training a challenge. They are cautious of strangers and are not fond of children under about ten years old. While they can be aloof or aggressive with other dogs, they are usually good with cats.
They can be alarm barkers, alerting the household when visitors arrive. Pekingese are well suited for apartment life, especially with an adult household.
AppearanceThe outercoat is long, straight, and coarse, yet soft; the undercoat is thick. Feathering on the thighs, legs, tail, and toes is long and bushy; around the neck is a lion-like mane.
The coat may be red, fawn, black, black and tan, sable, brindle, white, or particolor. The Peke has a distinctive black mask and a short, broad, wrinkled muzzle.
Grooming & Exercise NeedsThe Peke needs to be brushed and combed daily. Rather than exercise, this short, bowlegged dog likes to lounge on laps.
OriginsKnown as the Lion Dog of China, the Pekingese is thought to be an ancient breed -- for centuries a favorite of the Chinese Imperial Court. In 18th-century China, stealing a Peke was punishable by death.
Special AlertsBreed-related health concerns: umbilical hernias, eye problems, patellar luxation, undescended testicles, intervertebral disc protrusion, deformities of the nose and mouth that can interfere with breathing.
