Pekingese Breed Guide: Temperament, Care, Lifespan and Adoption
What is the origin of Pekingese dogs?
The AKC lists China as the Pekingese's origin and places the breed in the Toy Group. The Pekingese origin is described as lost in the mists of time, though the breed is believed to descend from ancient lion-like Chinese Fo Dogs. Ownership of these dogs was restricted to select people, and they were favorites at the Chinese Imperial Court.
How big is a Pekingese?
The AKC places the Pekingese in its Small size category. The AKC publishes a height of 6-9 inches and a weight of up to 14 pounds. The United Kennel Club standard says the breed looks small but should feel surprisingly heavy when picked up.
What is the Pekingese temperament and personality like?
The AKC describes Pekingese as loyal, affectionate and regal in manner. The UKC standard calls the breed fearless and loyal, rather aloof but never timid or aggressive. VCA Animal Hospitals describes a devoted and aristocratic family member that is often good with children but may not be playful enough for them. Pekingese tend not to be overly friendly toward strange dogs.
How much exercise does a Pekingese need?
A Pekingese needs daily exercise such as a leisurely walk or a quick game, and it is not physically suited to overly vigorous exercise. Because the breed overheats very easily, keeping it in a cool place is essential.
Pekingese grooming: how much care does the coat need?
The AKC lists the coat as long and double, with a long, coarse outer coat over a soft, dense undercoat. VCA Animal Hospitals advises brushing twice weekly to prevent matting. The skin fold above the nose needs cleaning and drying every day so infection does not set in. The hair around the anus should be checked daily for hygiene issues.
Is a Pekingese easy to train?
Pekingese tend to be independent and very stubborn, and they rebel against forceful methods. They do best with reward-based training using food. Many have been taught to use indoor potties.
What is the Pekingese lifespan and life expectancy?
The AKC gives a general life expectancy of 12-14 years for the Pekingese. VCA Animal Hospitals notes the breed is prone to periodontal problems, which regular tooth brushing can largely prevent. Pekingese tend to stay at a good weight or run slightly overweight, so you need to feel beneath the thick coat with your hands.
AKC breed facts
These are the American Kennel Club’s general facts and 1 to 5 ratings for the Pekingese as a breed. General tendencies don’t establish any one dog’s ancestry, personality or health; ask the listing organization about the dog you are considering.
- AKC group
- Toy Group
- AKC recognition year
- 1906
- Height (AKC published)
- 6-9 inches
- Weight (AKC published)
- up to 14 pounds
- General life expectancy
- 12-14 years
- AKC size category
- Small
AKC general breed ratings (1 to 5)
- Energy: 3 of 5
- Mental enrichment: 3 of 5
- Trainability: 3 of 5
- Grooming frequency: 3 of 5
- Shedding: 3 of 5
- Vocalization: 1 of 5
- Drooling: 1 of 5
- Adaptability: 4 of 5
- Playfulness: 4 of 5
- Watchful or protective tendency: 4 of 5
- Affection toward family: 5 of 5
- Openness toward strangers: 3 of 5
- AKC child compatibility rating: 3 of 5
- AKC dog compatibility rating: 3 of 5
Health screenings AKC lists for the breed
Breeding evaluations AKC names for the breed; they are not a diagnosis or a testing plan for any one dog.
- No recommended health tests
Source: American Kennel Club breed profile (opens in a new tab), retrieved November 4, 2026 (snapshot akc-2026-11-04).
Written by Lily's Second Chance with AI assistance from the sources listed under References. Facts were checked automatically against those sources on November 7, 2026.
References
- Breed Standards : Pekingese | United Kennel Club (UKC) (opens in a new tab), United Kennel Club, checked November 7, 2026
- Pekingese | VCA Animal Hospitals (opens in a new tab), VCA Animal Hospitals, checked November 7, 2026
- Pekingese - AKC breed profile (snapshot akc-2026-11-04) (opens in a new tab), American Kennel Club, checked November 4, 2026
