Caring for a Pekingese can feel tricky, especially with their special needs. These fluffy lap dogs were once prized by Chinese royalty and still carry an air of elegance. This guide will teach you everything—feeding tips, grooming tricks, and health advice—to keep your pup happy and healthy.
Keep reading to make caring for your little lion easier!
Key Takeaways
- Pekingese need regular grooming for their thick double coat and daily cleaning of facial folds to prevent skin issues. Brush weekly to avoid tangles and matting.
- Feed high-quality, toy breed-specific dog food in small portions (2 meals for adults, 3 for puppies) to prevent obesity and support their small size. Always provide fresh water.
- They are prone to health problems like brachycephalic airway syndrome, dry eye (KCS), patellar luxation, and dental disease. Regular vet checkups help catch these early.
- Pekingese have a stubborn streak but respond well to positive reinforcement training and short sessions. Early socialization reduces barking and fearfulness around strangers.
- Limit exercise due to heat intolerance from flat faces. Opt for short walks or play indoors during hot weather to avoid breathing difficulties or overheating risks.
Pekingese Personality and Temperament
Pekingese dogs are bold, with a dash of stubbornness that makes them stand out. They love affection but often prefer it on their own terms.
Key behavioral traits
Affectionate and loyal, these dogs bond closely with their families. Their confident personality gives them an air of royalty, much like their history with ancient Chinese royalty during the Tang Dynasty.
Despite being laid-back at home, they are alert and make good watchdogs.
Their independent nature can sometimes come off as stubbornness. They often behave with a regal demeanor, acting as if the world moves for them. That said, they thrive on attention but prefer it without too much fuss.
One owner once joked, “You don’t own a Pekingese; they own you!”.
Socialization needs
Pekingese dogs are naturally wary of strangers. Early socialization can ease this behavior and reduce their watchdog tendencies, like excessive barking. Introduce them to new people, pets, and environments during puppyhood.
This exposure helps them feel secure and confident around others. Always supervise interactions with children or other dogs—they can be territorial or sensitive.
Frequent visits to parks or pet-friendly spaces work wonders for their social skills. Use positive reinforcement to reward calm behavior during these outings. While they thrive as lapdogs, keeping them active mentally through controlled interactions prevents boredom and anxiety.
Training sessions with rewards build trust and address stubbornness common in the breed.
Diet and Nutrition for Pekingese
Feeding a Pekingese isn’t just about filling their bowl—it’s about keeping them thriving. A well-thought-out diet helps these little pups stay healthy, active, and happy.
What to feed a Pekingese
Pekingese dogs thrive on high-quality dog food. Puppies need formulas designed for growth and energy, packed with vital nutrients. Adults do best with balanced meals given in measured portions twice daily to avoid overeating or obesity.
Toy breed-specific recipes work well since they cater to their tiny jaws and nutritional needs.
Include lean protein like chicken or fish and healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil. Avoid foods with fillers, artificial additives, or too much salt. Treats should be small and occasional to prevent weight gain while keeping their diet balanced.
Always provide fresh water alongside meals for proper hydration.
Feeding schedule and portion sizes
Pekingese dogs need a balanced diet for good health. A proper feeding routine helps keep their energy steady and prevents health issues.
- Puppies should eat three small meals each day. This prevents low blood sugar, which is common in young toy breeds like Pekingese.
- Adults do well with two meals per day. Split portions into morning and evening to keep them full and happy.
- Measure their food carefully to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding. Obesity can harm their short legs and rolling gait.
- Use high-quality dog food made for toy breeds. Look for labels that support healthy weight management and dental care.
- Adjust meal portions based on their weight, age, and activity level. Smaller dogs like these don’t need large servings.
- Always provide fresh water near their food bowl at all times during the day to avoid dehydration.
Coat care is just as important as diet, so let’s focus on grooming next!
Nutritional tips for optimal health
Feeding the right food keeps your Pekingese healthy and happy. Offer a balanced diet that matches their small size and unique needs.
- Choose high-quality dog food that meets AAFCO standards. This ensures it contains all the nutrients they need daily.
- Include Omega-3 fatty acids in their meals. These support their skin, double coat, and joint health.
- Avoid feeding table scraps or human food. Such foods can upset their stomach or cause obesity over time.
- Offer fresh water at all times, especially after meals or exercise, to prevent dehydration risks like heatstroke or constipation.
- Adjust portion sizes based on your pet’s age, activity level, and weight goal to avoid obesity prevention issues such as patellar luxation.
- Stick to regular meal times for better digestion and routine—two small meals a day usually work well for this toy breed.
- Incorporate treats wisely during obedience training sessions but keep them low-calorie to reduce dental disease risks such as decay or periodontal disease.
- Use an enriched kibble designed for toy breeds with smaller jaws to prevent choking hazards while promoting proper dental hygiene.
- Monitor their weight regularly to spot early signs of health problems like hypothyroidism linked closely with noticeable belly fat buildup.
- Consult your vet before introducing new supplements or drastic dietary changes, especially if they have chronic conditions like brachycephalic airway syndrome.
Their food choices heavily impact long-term health! Treat every bite seriously without needing extra frills!
Grooming and Maintenance
Keeping a Pekingese looking sharp takes some effort, but it’s worth every minute. Their double coat needs regular care to stay healthy and beautiful, so grab your brush!
Coat care and brushing frequency
A Pekingese has a thick, double coat that needs regular upkeep. Proper grooming keeps their fur healthy and prevents painful tangles.
- Brush their coat weekly for at least one hour to remove loose fur and prevent mats.
- Use a pin brush or slicker brush, as their double coat tangles easily without proper tools.
- Focus on areas like the neck, behind the ears, and under the legs where mats form quickly.
- Inspect the coat during brushing to spot skin issues such as sores or redness early.
- Schedule professional grooming every six to eight weeks, especially to maintain hygiene and keep them comfortable in warmer months.
- Trim long hair at their feet and belly if dirt tends to gather during walks.
Skin care tips
Clean the folds on their face daily to avoid dermatitis. Use a soft cloth or cotton pad, dampened with warm water, to gently wipe away dirt and moisture. Dry the skin thoroughly after cleaning to prevent bacteria from growing.
Limit baths to twice a month using dog-specific shampoo. Overbathing can dry out their skin, leading to irritation. Moisturize dry areas if needed with veterinarian-approved products.
Regular care helps keep them healthy and comfortable, ready for more grooming tasks ahead like eye care!
Eye care
Pekingese dogs often face eye issues due to their prominent eyeballs. Dry eye, also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is common in this breed. It occurs when tear production drops and can lead to discomfort or corneal ulcers if ignored.
Treat it with prescribed topical medications from the vet.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) poses a bigger challenge. This inherited disease gradually leads to blindness and lacks a cure right now. Regular check-ups can catch early signs of PRA or other problems like injuries or infections.
Keep their eyes clean using dog-specific wipes, avoiding harsh products that might irritate delicate tissues.
Preventing ear infections
Clean their ears weekly or every two weeks, using a dog-specific cleaner. Gently wipe the outer ear with a soft cloth and check for redness or odor. Avoid pushing anything deep into the ear canal.
Keep their ears dry after baths to stop moisture buildup. Moist environments can lead to infections. Regular grooming by a professional groomer also helps reduce risks by keeping hair around the ears trimmed neatly.
Training a Pekingese
Training a Pekingese demands patience and heaps of praise. These pups may be small, but their stubborn streak can pack a punch!
Basic training tips
Training a Pekingese can be tricky but rewarding. These dogs are smart, yet they have a stubborn streak.
- Use positive reinforcement. Reward good behaviors with treats, praises, or toys. It helps build trust and motivates them to listen.
- Keep sessions short. Their attention spans are brief, so aim for 5-10 minutes per session. Repeating too much can frustrate them.
- Start early socialization. Introduce your Pekingese to different people, sounds, and pets as puppies. This reduces barking and fear of new situations.
- Be consistent with commands. Stick to the same words for actions like “sit” or “stay.” Mixing up phrases confuses them.
- Avoid harsh punishment. They respond poorly to yelling or physical corrections and may become fearful or defiant.
- Focus on housebreaking quickly. Take your dog outside after meals, naps, or playtime for potty breaks. A regular schedule prevents accidents indoors.
- Use crate training wisely. Make the crate cozy and inviting—not a place of punishment! It’s useful for teaching boundaries and safety.
- Stay patient with stubbornness. Pekingese dogs may refuse commands sometimes simply because they don’t feel like it! Stay calm but firm if they resist.
- Always keep distractions minimal when training indoors or outside at first—loud noises or busy areas make focusing harder for this toy breed.
- Work on leash training early to avoid pulling during walks later in life; these dogs thrive on gentle guidance rather than forceful tugs!
Housebreaking and crate training
Housebreaking and crate training a Pekingese takes patience and consistency. This breed can be stubborn, but positive reinforcement works wonders.
- Start crate training early. Choose a crate big enough for your Pekingese to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
- Place soft bedding inside the crate to make it cozy. Avoid using blankets if chewing is an issue.
- Feed meals in the crate to create a positive association with the space.
- Take your dog outside after eating, drinking, or waking up from naps. This helps them learn when and where to go.
- Use a consistent spot for bathroom breaks. A dedicated area reduces confusion and sets clear expectations.
- Offer praise or treats immediately after successful potty trips outdoors. Positive reinforcement encourages repeat behavior.
- Keep accidents at home stress-free and clean up using enzyme-based cleaners to remove odors that may attract repeat incidents.
- Limit unmonitored time outside the crate during housebreaking stages to prevent messes or destructive behaviors.
- Introduce commands like “go potty” during outdoor trips so they associate the phrase with the action over time.
- Gradually increase freedom as your Pekingese becomes more reliable with house manners, but continue regular outdoor breaks throughout their schedule.
Managing stubborn behaviors
Pekingese have a strong will and independent streak. Positive reinforcement works best for training them. Use treats, verbal praise, or toys to reward good behavior. Avoid yelling or harsh methods, as they may backfire with this toy breed.
Keep sessions short and interesting to hold their attention. Consistency is key—stick to the rules you set every day. Early socialization also helps curb defiance as they grow older.
With patience and clear guidance, your Pekingese can learn basic obedience skills effectively.
### Moving on to Exercise and Activities…
Exercise and Activities for Pekingese
Pekingese may be small, but they enjoy a good walk or play session. Keep activities gentle, as their short snouts can make breathing harder during too much exertion.
Daily exercise needs
Short walks twice a day meet their exercise needs. Indoor play, like tug or fetch, keeps them happy too. Avoid long outings in hot weather to prevent heatstroke.
Their brachycephalic nature limits strenuous activity. Overexertion can strain their windpipe and lead to breathing issues. Balance light activity with rest for their safety and health.
Fun activities to keep them engaged
Pekingese dogs are playful but have moderate energy. They enjoy activities that stimulate their minds and keep them happy.
- Teach obedience training using positive reinforcement. It helps build their focus and strengthens your bond.
- Play fetch with small, soft toys indoors or in a safe yard. Their compact size suits short play bursts.
- Try nose work games by hiding treats around the house. It taps into their curiosity and natural scent-tracking skills.
- Take them on short scent walks to explore smells at their own pace. This keeps both their brains and senses active.
- Introduce puzzle toys filled with high-quality dog food or treats. These challenge and entertain for hours without overexertion.
- Set up a gentle obstacle course using cushions and boxes at home. Their rolling gait makes this fun and manageable.
- Sit together for calm bonding time after play sessions to curb separation anxiety tendencies common in companion dogs like Pekingese.
- Rotate toys every few days so they stay excited about playtime without losing interest quickly!
Common Health Concerns in Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are prone to certain health issues because of their unique build. Staying aware of these problems can help you spot early signs and keep them comfortable.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
This syndrome affects many toy breeds, including Pekingese dogs. It happens because of their flat faces and short noses. Signs include snoring, loud breathing, fainting during exercise, and struggles with heat.
Some dogs may even have trouble sleeping or eating comfortably.
In severe cases, surgery might help open up the airways. Heatstroke prevention is crucial since these dogs overheat quickly. Limit outdoor play on hot days to keep them safe and cool.
Dry eye risks can also increase due to their face shape—watch for squinting or redness in their eyes next!
Dry eye and eye-related issues
Pekingese dogs often suffer from dry eye, also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). This condition happens when their eyes stop making enough tears. It can cause redness, irritation, and even corneal ulcers if left untreated.
Topical eye medications help manage it effectively. Regular check-ups catch the problem early.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is another concern in this breed. It’s an inherited disease that leads to blindness over time. Unlike KCS, no treatment exists for PRA yet. Regular eye exams may spot signs early, helping owners adjust care as needed.
Keep your Pekingese’s eyes clean daily to prevent infections or injuries!
Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation happens when the kneecap slips out of place. This is common in toy breeds like Pekingese dogs. The condition may cause limping, pain, or even lameness in severe cases.
Over time, it can lead to arthritis and make daily movement harder for your pet.
Treatment depends on how bad it is. Mild cases might only need joint supplements or pain relief medications. Severe cases could require surgery to fix the kneecap’s position. Regular vet visits help catch this early before lasting damage occurs.
Watch for signs like skipping steps or trouble walking straight after playtime!
Dental disease prevention
Pekingese dogs are prone to dental problems. Regular care can help avoid pain and serious health issues.
- Brush your Pekingese’s teeth every day using dog-specific toothpaste and a soft brush. This helps reduce plaque buildup and prevents bad breath.
- Provide dental chews or toys to keep their teeth strong and gums healthy. Choose options approved for small breeds like the Pekingese.
- Schedule professional dental cleanings with your vet at least once a year. Early cleaning can prevent severe dental disease later on.
- Feed high-quality dog food that promotes oral health. Crunchy kibbles often help reduce tartar more effectively than soft foods.
- Check their mouth weekly for red gums, loose teeth, or bad odor, which may indicate an issue needing attention.
- Provide fresh water daily to wash away food particles and encourage healthy saliva production.
- Avoid sugary treats or table scraps that stick to their teeth and contribute to cavities over time.
Healthy teeth improve appetite, energy, and quality of life for Pekingese dogs.
Special Considerations for Pet Parents
Pekingese need extra care because of their flat faces and small size. Keep an eye on their health, moods, and daily needs to keep them happy.
Managing separation anxiety
Separation anxiety can make your dog uneasy. Start with obedience training and early socialization to build confidence. Use positive reinforcement when teaching them to stay calm alone.
Crate training offers a safe space, making time apart less stressful.
Keep their mind busy with toys or puzzles while you’re away. Avoid long goodbyes that heighten their stress. A consistent routine helps them feel secure. For severe cases, talk to your vet about pet health insurance options or calming aids like pheromone sprays.
Avoiding overexertion due to their physical traits
Pekingese dogs, being a brachycephalic breed, struggle with overheating. Their flat faces make breathing harder, especially in hot weather or during intense activity. Heatstroke prevention is crucial for their health.
Keep walks short and avoid outdoor exercise when it’s warm outside.
Their rolling gait also means they’re not built for heavy activity. Moderate play indoors or a leisurely stroll works best. Overexertion can lead to serious issues like exhaustion or difficulty breathing.
Always monitor their energy levels closely and provide plenty of water breaks to keep them comfortable.
Next up: managing separation anxiety effectively!
FAQs About Pekingese Care
Curious about what life with a Pekingese is like? These quick answers might just clear up some questions you’ve been pondering!
How long do Pekingese live?
Pekingese dogs usually live between 12 and 14 years. With proper care, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and vet checkups, they can thrive well into their golden years. Some may face heart problems like congestive heart failure around age six.
Symptoms include fainting or trouble breathing, so early detection matters.
Their small size as a toy breed contributes to their long lifespan compared to larger breeds. Keeping them at a healthy weight helps prevent obesity-related issues. Pet health insurance can cover unexpected medical costs as they age.
Regular dental cleanings are also crucial in preventing disease that could shorten their life span.
Do Pekingese bark a lot?
These dogs tend to bark often. Historically, Chinese royalty valued them as watchdogs. Their sharp alertness makes them quick to respond to unfamiliar sounds or movements. Early socialization is vital to curb excessive barking habits.
Without proper training, their protective nature can lead to nuisance barking. Positive reinforcement during obedience training helps manage this behavior effectively. Next, let’s explore their diet and nutrition needs!
Are Pekingese suitable for families with children?
Pekingese dogs can live with families that have older children. They are loving and loyal but may not enjoy rough handling from young kids. Their small size and delicate build make them prone to injuries when mishandled.
Supervision is vital during playtime to prevent accidents. Pekingese often prefer calm environments and may be aloof toward strangers or other pets. Early socialization helps them adapt better, but their stubborn nature might require patience in training.
If raised gently, they become excellent companions for quieter households.
Conclusion
Caring for a Pekingese takes love, patience, and attention. These little dogs bring big personalities and strong bonds to your home. Keep them healthy with the right food, exercise, and grooming.
Watch out for common health issues they may face. With proper care, they’ll be your loyal companion for years!
FAQs
1. What is the history of Pekingese dogs?
Pekingese dogs come from ancient China and were beloved by Chinese royalty, including during the Tang Dynasty. They were also called “sleeve dogs” because nobles carried them in their sleeves.
2. How should I care for a Pekingese’s coat?
Their double coat needs regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Use dog-specific shampoo, brush often, and keep their fur clean to avoid skin issues.
3. What common health problems do Pekingese face?
They can suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, patellar luxation (knee cap issues), dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), corneal ulcers, dental disease, and obesity if not managed well.
4. How do I feed my Pekingese properly?
Provide high-quality dog food in appropriate portions to prevent obesity or digestive problems like bloody diarrhea or kidney stones.
5. Are there special training tips for Pekingese dogs?
Start early socialization with positive reinforcement methods like treats or praise during obedience training sessions to manage separation anxiety and stubbornness.
6. Should I spay or neuter my Pekingese?
Spaying or neutering can help reduce risks of cancers such as mast cell tumors and valve disease while preventing inguinal hernias in some cases. Always consult your vet about timing based on pet health insurance guidelines!