Toy group · Toy

Pekingese

Imperial Chinese palace dog — dignified, opinionated, ancient.

Apartment FriendlySmall BreedAffectionateLoyalRegal

Puppy.College Rating66/ 100

Weight

up to 14 lbs

Height

6–9 in

Lifespan

12–14 years

Exercise

20–40 minutes/day

Origin

Multiple regions historically

First-time owner

3/5

Overview

Imperial Chinese palace dog — dignified, opinionated, ancient.

The Pekingese is a toy breed in the Toy group, typically standing 6–9 in and weighing up to 14 lbs. Expect a lifespan of 12–14 years with good preventive care. Personality is best described as affectionate, loyal, regal.

Breed history & origin

The Pekingese traces its origins to Multiple regions historically. Its original purpose — lap companion and household charmer — shaped almost every physical and temperamental trait still visible in the breed today.

As a toy member of the Toy group, the Pekingese was selectively bred for independent decision-making, steady temperament and an even pace. Modern owners describe them as affectionate, loyal, regal — qualities deeply rooted in that working heritage.

The breed is recognised by all major kennel clubs in the Toy group, with a written standard codifying its silhouette, gait, and temperament.

Today the Pekingese thrives as a travel-friendly companion. It remains one of the more recognisable breeds at North American dog shows and in homes across Canada and the United States, where its combination of affectionate and working capability continues to draw new owners every year.

Like every purebred, the Pekingese carries genetic risks tied to its small founding gene pool. Conscientious modern breeders screen for the conditions listed in the health section below and breed for longevity, structural soundness, and stable temperament — the three pillars of a responsibly preserved breed.

Origin snapshot

Country of origin: Multiple regions historically
Era: Historic
Original purpose: Lap companion and household charmer
Modern purpose: Travel-friendly companion

Breed timeline

Historic
Pekingese develops in Multiple regions historically
20th century
Formal kennel club recognition in the Toy group
Today
Established as a travel-friendly companion

Appearance

Male

Height

6–9 in

Weight

up to 14 lbs

Female

Height

6–8 in

Weight

up to 14 lbs

Coat length: Long
Coat texture: Smooth or wiry single coat
Undercoat: Light undercoat
Body: Compact, agile build

Temperament

Pekingeses are affectionate, loyal, regal. With early socialization and positive-reinforcement training in the critical 8–16 week window, they grow into well-adjusted adults that fit a wide range of households.

Exercise & activity

Adult Pekingeses need 20–40 minutes/day, split between leashed walks and off-leash play. Under-exercised dogs of this breed are the #1 source of behaviour complaints — chewing, barking, and pulling.

Grooming & shedding

Pekingeses are high-maintenance coats. Plan on daily brushing and a professional groom every 4–6 weeks.

Moderate shedder. Regular brushing controls it; a vacuum-shedding tool helps in spring and fall.

Nutrition guide

Feed a high-quality small-breed puppy formula with calorie-dense kibble in tiny pieces. Pekingese puppies thrive on 3 measured meals per day until 6 months, then 2 meals. Look for AAFCO statements naming "growth" or "all life stages," and skip filler-heavy grocery brands.

Puppy nutrition

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

Adult nutrition

Adult Pekingeses do well on a high-quality kibble (≥ 25% protein, ≤ 15% fat) split into two meals. Free-feeding is the #1 cause of obesity in this breed.

Senior nutrition

From age 8, transition to a senior formula with glucosamine/chondroitin and reduced calories.

Daily calories (adult)

200–350 kcal/day

Common allergies: Most common triggers in this breed: chicken, beef, dairy, wheat. A novel-protein diet (duck, salmon, venison) helps if itching or GI issues persist.

Never feed:

• Grapes & raisins
• Chocolate
• Onions & garlic
• Xylitol (peanut butter labels!)
• Cooked bones
• Macadamia nuts

Training guide

Housebreaking

Crate-train from day 1. Pekingese puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Crate training

Use a crate just large enough to stand and turn around. Never use it as punishment. Most Pekingeses accept the crate within 2 weeks with kong-and-meal pairing.

Obedience

Pekingeses have an independent streak. Keep sessions ≤ 5 minutes, very high-value rewards, and end on a win.

Socialisation

Critical window is 8–16 weeks. Aim for 100 new people, 50 new dogs, and 25 new environments before 4 months — vaccinated, controlled, positive exposures only.

Advanced training

Focus on rock-solid basics first; advanced sports work best from 18+ months with this breed.

Common mistakes to avoid

×Skipping puppy class because the dog ‘seems fine’
×Using punishment for fear-based behaviour (escalates it)
×Repeating the cue word — say it once, then enforce
×Free-feeding (kills food motivation for training)

Health database

Lifespan: 12–14 years. Below are the conditions vets most commonly screen for in this breed — for education only, always consult your veterinarian.

Hip dysplasia risk

Lower than average

Elbow dysplasia risk

Low

Eye disease risk

Standard screening recommended

Cancer risk

Average

Dental risk

Elevated — small breeds prone to crowding and tartar

Annual vet cost

$400–$700 CAD

Common health concerns

▸Dental disease
▸Obesity (over-feeding)
▸Patellar luxation

Recommended screening

▸Patella evaluation
▸CERF / OFA eye exam
▸Cardiac auscultation
▸Skin & coat dermatology check

Educational only — always consult your veterinarian.

Living requirements

Apartment: Excellent
House: Yes — ideal
Urban: Strong
Rural / farm: Strong
Cold weather: Average — needs a jacket below freezing
Hot weather: Tolerant
Barking level: Average
Separation anxiety: Average
Escape risk: Average
Space: Apartment-friendly

Cost of ownership (Canada)

Reputable Canadian breeders typically charge $1,200–$2,200 for a Pekingese puppy. Plan for $1,400–$2,200 in annual cost of ownership covering food, vet visits, insurance, training, and grooming.

Puppy purchase

$1,200–$2,200

Annual all-in

$1,400–$2,200

Insurance

$45–$90 / month CAD

Pros & cons

Pros

+Adapts well to apartments and condo living
+Travel-friendly size; fits under airline seats and in small homes

Cons

−High grooming costs — professional groom every 4–6 weeks
−Independent streak — needs patient, consistent training
−Better matched to adults-only or older-kid households

Ideal owner profile

Apartment & condo dwellersSeniors and slower-paced households

Fun facts

1.Pekingeses live 12–14 years on average with good preventive care.
2.Adults stand 6–9 in and weigh up to 14 lbs.
3.Daily exercise needs: 20–40 minutes/day.
4.Classified in the Toy group.

Pekingese vs popular breeds

Trait	Pekingese	Labrador Retriever	Golden Retriever	German Shepherd	French Bulldog	Poodle (Standard)
Size	Toy	Large	Large	Large	Small	Large
Lifespan	12–14 years	11–13 years	10–12 years	9–13 years	10–12 years	10–18 years
Energy	2/5	5/5	4/5	5/5	2/5	4/5
Trainability	2/5	5/5	5/5	5/5	3/5	5/5
Family-friendly	3/5	5/5	5/5	4/5	4/5	5/5
Apartment	5/5	2/5	2/5	2/5	5/5	3/5
Shedding	3/5	4/5	4/5	5/5	3/5	1/5
Exercise	20–40 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	20–40 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day

Frequently asked

Pekingese — 30 questions answered.

Are Pekingeses good family dogs?+

Pekingeses score 3/5 for family friendliness. They tend to suit adults or older children better than busy toddler households.

Are Pekingeses good for first-time owners?+

Pekingeses rank 3/5 for first-time owners. Consider a puppy class and a trainer mentor before bringing one home.

How much exercise does a Pekingese need?+

How much does a Pekingese puppy cost in Canada?+

Reputable Canadian breeders charge $1,200–$2,200 for a well-bred Pekingese puppy. Adoption through breed-specific rescues runs $400–$900.

What's the annual cost of owning a Pekingese?+

Plan for $1,400–$2,200 CAD per year covering food, vet care, insurance, training, and grooming.

Do Pekingeses shed a lot?+

Moderate shedder. Regular brushing controls it; a vacuum-shedding tool helps in spring and fall.

Are Pekingeses hypoallergenic?+

No — Pekingeses shed dander and hair like most breeds. ‘Hypoallergenic’ is a myth; severity varies by individual.

How long do Pekingeses live?+

Typical lifespan is 12–14 years. Lean body weight and routine vet care add years.

What health problems are Pekingeses prone to?+

Most commonly: Dental disease, Obesity (over-feeding), Patellar luxation. Buy from a breeder who screens for these and provides documentation.

Are Pekingeses good apartment dogs?+

Yes — they adapt well to apartments when exercised daily.

How often should I groom my Pekingese?+

Pekingeses are high-maintenance coats. Plan on daily brushing and a professional groom every 4–6 weeks.

How smart is a Pekingese?+

Pekingeses rank 2/5 for trainability — in the average range. They learn best with short, motivated sessions.

Are Pekingeses good with kids?+

Pekingeses do best with respectful older kids. Supervise all dog-child interactions regardless of breed.

Are Pekingeses good with cats and other dogs?+

Varies by individual — early socialisation and slow introductions are essential.

Can Pekingeses be left alone?+

Yes — most Pekingeses handle moderate alone time when properly conditioned.

Do Pekingeses bark a lot?+

Average barking. Most Pekingeses alert to strangers but settle quickly.

How big do Pekingeses get?+

Adults typically stand 6–9 in and weigh up to 14 lbs.

What should I feed a Pekingese puppy?+

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

How many calories does an adult Pekingese need?+

Roughly 200–350 kcal/day for an average-activity adult. Active or working dogs need 20–40% more.

When does a Pekingese stop growing?+

By 9–12 months.

How do I housebreak a Pekingese?+

Crate-train from day 1. Pekingese puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Do Pekingeses do well in cold weather?+

Average — needs a jacket below freezing

Do Pekingeses tolerate hot weather?+

Tolerant

Are Pekingeses good guard dogs?+

No — most Pekingeses are too friendly to make true guard dogs but will alert-bark at strangers.

Do Pekingeses like water and swimming?+

Variable — small breeds are at higher risk in water; use a life jacket.

Can Pekingeses do agility or dog sports?+

Possible, but recall and focus take longer to develop in this breed.

Are male or female Pekingeses better?+

No meaningful temperament difference at the breed level — individual personality, socialisation, and training matter far more than sex.

Should I get pet insurance for a Pekingese?+

Strongly recommended. Expect $45–$90 / month CAD for accident & illness coverage.

What questions should I ask a Pekingese breeder?+

Health clearances on both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac as applicable), the right to return the dog at any age, contract terms, references from previous puppy buyers, and a meet-and-greet with the dam.

Where can I adopt a Pekingese in Canada?+

Start with breed-specific rescues on Petfinder.ca and the Canadian Kennel Club's breed club referrals, then check provincial humane societies.

What's the difference between Canadian, American, and European Pekingese lines?+

Bloodlines differ in size, structure, and working drive. North American show lines are typically larger and calmer; European working lines are leaner and drivier. Ask the breeder which lines they breed and why.

Pekingese curriculum