Pekingese
Toy Group

Height at Shoulders
6-9 in
Weight
<15 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-14 yrs
History
The Pekingese originated in China, although when and how is unknown because it is such an old breed. It was very common in China for nobles to breed small, flat-faced companion dogs, such as the Pug, Pekingese, and Shih-tzu. The Pekingese was unknown in the west until during the Second Opium War, British and French troops found 5 Pekingese that belonged to the Xianfeng Emperor's aunt in the Old Summer Palace in Beijing. During the invasion of the palace, most other members of the royal family had killed their Pekingese, as they believed that was better than their dogs falling into the hands of the enemy. Two of these dogs were gifted to the Duchess of Wellington, two were gifted to the Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon, and the last was gifted to Queen Victoria. This gave the breed plenty of exposure in the western world.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Pekingese share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
★★★★★
★★☆☆☆
★★☆☆☆
★★☆☆☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★☆☆☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★
★★★★☆
Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★☆☆☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★☆☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★☆☆☆
Energy Level
★★☆☆☆
Sensitivity
★★☆☆☆
Noise Level
★★★★☆
Prey Drive
★★★★★
Shedding
★★★★☆
Common Traits
Affectionate with whole family but tend to pick a favorite
Aloof and wary towards strangers, making them great watchdogs
Can become defensive in response to scolding or being handled roughly (like around children)
Very adaptable and make great therapy dogs
Have a self-important attitude and think they're in charge of any situation
Intelligent, independent, and stubborn, making training a bit challenging- they've even been known to go on hunger strikes
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- Noise fear
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- Excitability