All About the Breed: Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small and affectionate breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a dog and if this is the right breed for you and your family? This information is vital in making the decision to purchase a pet.

History

Chinese folklore actually plays a huge role in the origin of the Pekingese. According to ancient documents, the modern day Pekingese is a descendent of the mythical Lion Dog, the offspring of a lion and a marmoset. While this is clearly a myth, some enthusiasts hold on to the story as a means of setting this breed apart.

Confirmed records of the Pekingese date back to 19th century China, where these dogs were bred purely as loyal companions.

The Pekingese gained popularity in the United States in the mid 1800’s and was finally accepted into the American Kennel Club as a member of the Toy Group in 1906.

Today, the Pekingese is known worldwide as a small and affectionate companion dog.

Personality Traits

This small toy breed is best known for its sweet disposition and loyal, loving nature. The Pekingese is very trusting of its owners and typically gets along well with strangers and children.

The Pekingese can also be somewhat stubborn, confident, and independent at times. These dogs are also known as being the most dignified of all toy breeds.

Train-ability

Being bred as a loyal companion dog, trust is a very big part of the training process with the Pekingese. While these dogs can be stubborn and overly independent at times, they are typically very quick to pick up basic commands. Unfortunately, for all its intellect, the Pekingese is known to be rather slow at housebreaking.

Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed

There are many benefits to owning a Pekingese. These are small and rather portable dogs that may be taken anywhere their owner goes, and are known for behaving well in vehicles. This breed originated as a companion, requires very little exercise, and makes an excellent pet and pal to individuals of any age. Pekingese are known for getting along extremely well with other pets, strangers, and children.

Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Pekingese. This small breed has a thick and full coat that sheds quite heavily and requires almost constant grooming to prevent knots and matting.

The Pekingese can be somewhat stubborn and independent and is typically slow to pick up housebreaking.

While this breed is known for a lack of barking, they can be quite loud dogs. The Pekingese often snorts, snuffles, wheezes, snores loudly, and experiences flatulence.

Common Health Concerns

Sadly, the Pekingese is victim to several various health problems, such as: congestive heart failure, heart murmur, eye problems such as eye ulcer, breathing problems due to flat face, inability to regulate body temperature due to breathing problems, vulnerability to back injuries, skin allergies, and various cancers.

Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Pekingese? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.

Sources:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/pekingese

http://www.wikipedia.com/pekingese