Toy group
Pekingese
The lion dog of the Chinese emperors — regal, independent and unapologetically dignified.
Pekingese are small, heavily coated toy dogs bred for Chinese imperial courts. They are loyal, calm and self-assured, but independent, stubborn and prone to breathing and heat problems.
- Height
- 6–9 in15–23 cm
- Weight
- 7–14 lb3–6 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Size
- Toy
- Group
- Toy
- Origin
- China
Coat: Long, coarse outer coat with a thick undercoat and a mane. Colours: Any colour, including gold, red, sable, cream, black and white.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Pekes are dignified, confident and devoted to their families, often to one person. They are calm indoors and happy with a leisurely routine.
They are independent and stubborn and do not enjoy rough handling, so they are better with adults. They are often wary of strangers and make alert watchdogs.
Living with a Pekingese
Exercise
Short daily walks and indoor play. Avoid heat and humidity — Pekes overheat easily.
Grooming
Brush several times a week to prevent mats; heavy seasonal shedding. Clean facial wrinkles and eyes daily.
Training
Independent and stubborn; patience and gentle, food-based training work best.
Kids & other pets
Best with adults or older, gentle children. Usually fine with other calm pets.
Time alone
Tolerates alone time better than many toy breeds but needs a cool, comfortable space.
Home fit
Adapts well to apartments and smaller homes when daily needs are met.
Is a Pekingese right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Pekingese matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Pekingese typically lives 12–14 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
The flat face restricts breathing; avoid heat and overexertion.
Eye injuries
Prominent eyes are prone to ulcers and proptosis; check them daily.
Intervertebral disc disease
The long back and short legs increase disc risk.
Skin fold dermatitis
The nose fold needs daily cleaning to prevent infection.
Ask a breeder for
- Patella evaluation
- Eye examination
- Cardiac examination
- Respiratory function assessment
Sources: OFA health testing guidance: Pekingese; Pekingese Club of America. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $900–$1,800 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks adds roughly $500–$900 a year.
- Flat-faced breeds often need airway surgery or specialist care; insurance premiums are higher.
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
Pekingese were bred for centuries in the Forbidden City in Beijing, where only royalty could own them; stealing one was punishable by death. Small Pekes were carried in the sleeves of court robes.
After British troops looted the Summer Palace in 1860, several Pekingese were taken to England, and one was presented to Queen Victoria. The AKC recognised the breed in 1906. A Peke named Malachy won Westminster Best in Show in 2012.
Did you know?
- A Pekingese named Malachy won Westminster Best in Show in 2012.
- A Peke survived the sinking of the Titanic.
- Pekes are said to have been created when a lion fell in love with a marmoset, in an old Chinese legend.
Library guides for Pekingese owners
Grooming
Brushing
Pekingese coats mat without regular brushing.
Grooming
Bathing
How to bath a Pekingese without drying out the coat.
Training
Come (Recall)
High chase drive makes a reliable recall essential.
Grooming
Ear Cleaning
Ear care matters for this coat and ear type.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Pekingese.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Are Pekingese good apartment dogs?
- Yes — they are calm and small, though they need air conditioning in summer.
- Are Pekingese good with kids?
- Better with adults or gentle, older children.
- Do Pekingese shed?
- Yes, heavily at times; regular brushing is essential.