A small, compact, lion-like dog that feels surprisingly heavy for its size. The long, straight, stand-off outer coat is coarse, with a thick soft undercoat and a mane around the neck and shoulders. Ears, legs, tail and toes carry feathering, and the dog moves with a slow, dignified roll.14
Coloursall colours and markings allowed (except albino and liver under FCI)commonly gold, red or sablecreamblackwhiteblack and tanparti-colour143
Personality what they are like
A confident, dignified little companion with a mind of its own. It is devoted and affectionate with people it trusts, can be reserved with strangers, and is neither timid nor aggressive.14
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Low exercise needs: up to about 30 minutes a day.2
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The long coat needs daily grooming to stay tidy and free of tangles.23
Home where they are happiest
A true companion dog that suits indoor family or apartment life.12
Company who they like around
Bred purely as a companion and likes to be close to its people, while keeping an independent streak.12
The story where it all began
Small, short-legged dogs of this type were treasured in the Chinese Imperial palace for many centuries, and ordinary people were not allowed to own them. After British and French troops entered the Summer Palace in Peking in 1860, a few dogs were brought to Britain, one of which was presented to Queen Victoria. The breed soon became fashionable among Western high society.23
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Queen Victoria was given one of the first Pekingese in Britain and named it 'Looty'.3
2
Pekingese have won Best in Show at Westminster five times: 1960, 1982, 1990, 2012 and 2021.5
3
The 2021 Westminster winner was a Pekingese called Wasabi (GCH CH Pequest Wasabi).5
4
Its gait has a gentle, rolling motion over the shoulders that is part of the breed standard.4
5
Very small Pekingese kept at the Imperial court were called 'sleeve' dogs.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed's name refers to the city of Peking (now Beijing), where the Forbidden City is located and where the breed was favored by Chinese imperial royalty.3
Famous ones stars of the breed
Sun Yat-sen's Pekingese A Pekingese was the beloved companion of Chinese revolutionary leader Sun Yat-sen.3
Pekingese of the Dowager Empress Cixi The Dowager Empress Cixi of China kept Pekingese as palace dogs and gave them as gifts to select foreigners.3
This morning, I inspected every cushion in the house and found them all acceptable. After a thorough paw-licking session, I allowed my human to brush my royal coat while I sat on my velvet throne. A brief patrol of the garden confirmed that no squirrels had dared trespass. Lunch was served precisely at noon, as expected. The afternoon sunbeam on the rug was irresistible, so I napped there for two hours. When the doorbell rang, I gave a dignified bark to announce my presence, then returned to my nap. A perfect day for a Pekingese emperor.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 207, Group 9 Companion and Toy Dogs, Section 8 Japan Chin and Pekingese; published 26.03.2009; patronage Great Britain.1
Toy Group; current standard approved 13 January 2004, effective 2 March 2004.4
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Pekingese. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutTrim feathering and feet, or keep a short cutevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
Eye wipeGently wipe around the eyesevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Pekingese tip
Because even a little extra weight can make breathing harder for a flat-faced breed like the Pekingese, keep treats to about 10% of daily calories and use soft, low-calorie rewards or a few kibbles from their meal instead of rich human foods.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Pekingese, and at what times?
Feed your Pekingese at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. The exact times depend on your schedule, but consistent meal times help digestion. Check the food label and ask your vet for the right amount.6
What should a Pekingese eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, these are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid alcohol, yeast dough, and raw bones.7
How often should I bathe a Pekingese?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your Pekingese gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo and dry thoroughly, especially in skin folds.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Pekingese need brushing?
The long double coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles and keep it tidy. Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every two days, but daily is ideal for this breed. Use a pin brush or comb and be gentle around the feathering.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Pekingese's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask a vet or groomer for a demonstration.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Pekingese need?
Pekingese have low exercise needs, up to about 30 minutes a day. A short daily walk and some indoor play are enough. They are indoor dogs and suit apartment life well.2
How do I look after a Pekingese's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and gently dry them, never push anything into the ear canal. Furry Diary's plan includes daily eye wipes and face fold cleaning too.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Pekingese live?
A Pekingese typically lives around 12 years, with many reaching their early teens. Good care, regular vet check-ups, and a healthy diet can support a long life.2
Is a Pekingese good with children and other pets?
Pekingese are devoted and affectionate with people they trust but can be reserved with strangers. Their suitability with children and other pets varies depending on early socialisation and individual temperament. Ask a good breeder or an experienced vet for guidance.
Can a Pekingese be left alone?
Pekingese were bred as companions and like to be close to their people, though they have an independent streak. How long they can be left alone varies by individual. It's best to ask your vet or a reputable breeder for advice tailored to your dog.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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