The Pekingese is a small but sturdy dog breed with a long and fascinating history. Also known as the Lion Dog or Pelchie Dog, this breed originated in China more than 2,000 years ago. According to legend, the Pekingese was created by Buddha who shrunk down a lion to create the loyal lapdog we know today.
Description:
This toy breed stands about six to nine inches tall and weighs between 7-14 pounds. They have a compact body with short legs that give them a unique rolling gait when they walk. The coat of the Pekingese is long and flowing with fur that ranges from golden-red to black-white colors. Their large expressive eyes are dark and prominent giving them their characteristic look.
Temperament:
Pekes are bold little dogs with plenty of confidence which can make them strong-willed at times so early training is recommended. This breed makes great family pets because of their loyalty, affectionate nature and protective instincts towards its owners – especially for older people living alone or those needing companionship since they do well as lapdogs who will follow you everywhere! They tend to be independent thinkers; however, socializing your pet should help reduce any shyness tendencies it may exhibit.
Health Problems:
Like all breeds, Pekes can be prone certain health issues such as breathing problems due to their short snouts (Brachycephalic syndrome), joint issues such as patellar luxation or hip dysplasia later in life along with eye problems including cataracts & corneal ulcers plus skin irritations since dirt clings easily on their thick coat; hence regular cleaning is essential!. Their average lifespan ranges from 12-15 years if properly taken care of though it’s advisable not leave them outside during hot weather months where heatstroke might occur instead keep indoors preferably in air-conditioned rooms!
Exercise:
Despite being small dogs, Pekes require daily exercise to maintain a healthy weight and reduce any behavioral issues. Usually, two short walks per day are sufficient along with other forms of playtime in between since they have moderate energy levels compared to bigger breeds or puppies. Lack of activity can cause boredom leading them into destructive behavior hence an owner should keep the dog entertained by playing hide-and-seek or doing other fun activities.
Special Grooming Needs:
The Pekingese has a beautiful double coat that requires regular grooming such as daily brushing – especially during shedding season when their hair tends to fall off more frequently than usual- otherwise mats & tangles will form! They also need frequent baths preferably every six weeks using mild shampoo and conditioner which is perfect for its sensitive skin type.
Training:
Pekes require training that combines patience, consistency, firmness while keeping positive reinforcement techniques at the forefront. Puppy classes along with ongoing obedience schooling should begin early on since they tend to be stubborn and hard-headed at times; reward good behavior immediately rather than punishing negative ones like biting or barking excessively!. Paper housebreaking is best preferred over crate training for this breed due to it’s small size but make sure your puppy never misses an opportunity outdoors!
Compatibility with children/pets:
While these dogs love attention from humans – especially their owners, Pekingese dogs aren’t always suited for households having small kids (under 6 years) who might not know how fragile they could be because of their small stature so supervision is critical. In terms of compatibility with pets; early socializing would ensure friendly co-existence among different animals in the household provided proper introductions are made gradually!.
Personality quirks:
One quirk particular to these little guys is that some may snore loudly due to Brachycephalic syndrome common amongst flat-nosed breeds which affects air intake through nasal passages! Some people find it amusing while others may not appreciate noisy night time disturbances but rest assured, they do make great watchdogs when alerted to any strange noises!
Famous examples:
Some famous Pekingese dogs include Chihuahua Tz’u who was considered a national treasure of China and owned by Empress Dowager Cixi in the late 1800s. Other notable Pekes are Gidget from “Legally Blonde” and Byte from “Doctor Who.”