| The Pekingese or Peke is an ancient breed of toy dog. | | | | not begin too early however, as there is evidence to |
| Originating in China, they were venerated as | | | | show that before a certain age, the brains of puppies |
| semi-divine by the Chinese. They display dignity, a | | | | are not significantly developed enough to process |
| haughty demeanor, and bravery befitting their Chinese | | | | complex learning. Patience is the key when training |
| origin. They are also commonly referred to as a "Lion | | | | these little dogs. Treat your peke like a special |
| Dog", "Pelchie Dog", or "Foo (or Fu) Dog" due to their | | | | member of your family and start his training with short |
| resemblance to Chinese guardian lions that drove | | | | sessions of basic obedience and socialization. |
| away spirits. Self-confident, independent and fearless | | | | This is a double-coat breed. The outer-coat is |
| the Pekingese dog is one of the most respected of | | | | extravagant, long, and straight flowing with profuse |
| the toy breed. The Pekingese is the ultimate aristocrat | | | | feathering. The under-coat is soft and plush in texture. |
| who expects and demands to be a pampered | | | | The lavish Pekingese coat is this breeds crowning |
| companion. They were first registered by the | | | | glory. They come in a wide variety of colors and |
| American Kennel Association in 1915. | | | | markings, including parti-color. They are average |
| It is pear-shaped, compact and low to the ground. The | | | | shedders. Daily brushing and combing are mandatory |
| approximate adult sizse (two years old or older) of the | | | | to keep these dogs and their long double coats looking |
| Pekingese is 6 to 9 inches to the withers (highest point | | | | sharp. Due to their abundance of fur, it is important to |
| of the shoulder) and 8 to 10 pounds. Less than 6 | | | | keep the Pekingese cool as they are prone to having |
| pounds is a tea cup or sleeve Pekingese and between | | | | heatstroke when exposed to high temperature. The |
| 6 and 8 pounds is a mini. Small in stature, but thick | | | | Pekingese can live between 13 and 15 years with |
| boned, these compact dogs are heavier in the front, | | | | proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living |
| and lighter in the hindquarters. The Pekingese's flat | | | | conditions. |
| face is one of the breed's most obvious | | | | They are intelligent and courageous dogs that are also |
| characteristics. They have a broad head that is wide | | | | affectionate and sympathetic with their owners. They |
| between their large, dark, lucid and slightly prominent | | | | are very wary of strangers and despite their small |
| eyes. The legs are noticeably bowed and restrict the | | | | size can make good watchdogs. They are very alert |
| Pekingese's movement. These tiny, heavy boned dogs | | | | and tend to bark a lot as well. They are good for |
| have a characteristic rolling gait. | | | | apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and |
| The Pekingese puppies may be difficult to train due to | | | | will do okay without a yard. Contrary to popular belief, |
| their stoic nature. They have definite personalities that | | | | the Pekingese is not as bad tempered as some have |
| show in their very proud and regal stance. They | | | | been led to believe. They are actually quite eager to |
| don’t respond to a harsh, loud, or overly bossy | | | | please, and are extremely loyal. Lovable and |
| master. They respond best to gentle, consistent, and | | | | affectionate, these tiny companions are well-suited for |
| patient guidance. The crate method is recommended | | | | a variety of environments. |
| for housebreaking. Training Pekingese puppies should | | | | |