Pekingese
Description
This dog comes from ancient China and also is known as the Lion Dog, or dog of Foo ( Fu word for happy). It was once forbidden for anyone other than Chinese Royalty to own a Pekingese. During the Second Opium War in 1860, the Forbidden City fell, and five of these dogs came home with the allied troops. One pair went to the Duchess of Wellington, another pair went to Sir George Fitzroy who gave them to his cousins the Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon. Lieutenant Dunne presented the fifth dog to Queen Victoria of England. The Empress Dowager Cixi had presented gifts of Pekingese to Americans one being the daughter of Theodore Roosevelt, and the first Pekingese in Ireland was owned by Dr. Heuston he received a pair for his establishing a smallpox clinic in China. Dr. Heuston also started Greystones Kennels. The are between 6 to 9 in. tall and weight between 7 and 14 lbs. They have a solid, stout little body. A wide flat head, wide eyes. Most common colors are gold, red or sable, but there are other color combinations.
Temperament
Not the friendliest of dogs they have been known to be very stubborn and opinionated. They can be aggressive and have been known to attack other dogs, and bite people. If socialized early on they can make friends with other dogs, and other pets in the home. These are one person dogs…to their owners they can be loving and attentive. Stubborn in training you will have to be firm.
Grooming/Exercise
The Pekingeses full coat will need daily brushing in order for it to remain healthy. They will need to see a groomer on a regular basis. Close attention to detail with this dog. They have creases on the face that need to be cleaned to prevent sore from developing, and brushing between the back legs and belly to keep it free of dirt. You may also have to check in the rear to keep it free from feces…baby wipes work great for this. Pekingese need daily walks but keep in mind they can get heat stroke due to the amount of hair they have. and they enjoy playtime. They can live quite well in apartments.
Health
Life Expectancy 10 to 15 years.
Possible Issues
- Common Cold
- Ingrown Eyelashes
- Breathing Problems
- Heart Problems
- Herniated Disc
- Dislocated Kneecaps
