פקינז

Regal Elegance and Endearing Charisma

History & Origin
The Pekingese is an ancient breed with a rich history that can be traced back over 2,000 years to China. Originating in the Imperial courts of China, Pekingese dogs were highly valued and revered as companions to royalty and nobility

The Pekingese breed has deep roots in Chinese history and culture. Legend has it that the Pekingese believed to have originated from a lion and a marmoset who fell in love and asked Buddha to shrink them down in size but retain their lion-like appearance. These mythical origins contributed to the breed's association with lions and its nickname "Lion Dog."

Pekingese dogs were treasured companions of the Chinese imperial court during the Tang and Ming dynasties. They were kept in the Forbidden City, the imperial palace in Beijing, and were closely guarded by eunuchs. Pekingese were considered sacred and were believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. Ownership of Pekingese was once restricted to the royal family and court officials.

The Chinese emperors bestowed Pekingese dogs as cherished gifts to foreign dignitaries and other prominent figures. The breed gained international recognition when several Pekingese were taken to England as spoils of war during the Opium Wars in the 19th century. These dogs captured the fascination of the Western world with their unique appearance and regal presence.

The breeding of Pekingese dogs was strictly controlled by the Chinese imperial court, leading to the isolation and purity of the breed. Pekingese were bred selectively to preserve their distinctive features, including their flat face, large eyes, and a luxurious coat. Breeding pairs were carefully chosen to maintain the desired characteristics and temperament of the breed.

Endurance and Survival: During times of political upheaval in China, the Pekingese faced threats to their existence. In 1900, during the Boxer Rebellion, foreign soldiers looted and destroyed the Forbidden City, including the kennels where the Pekingese were kept. Some Pekingese were smuggled out of the country to preserve the breed. Their survival during these challenging times is a testament to their enduring spirit.

International Recognition: The Pekingese breed gained recognition from international kennel clubs in the early 20th century. They quickly became popular pets and show dogs worldwide. The breed's distinct appearance and historical significance have made it a beloved breed, treasured for its regal demeanor and loyal companionship.

General Structure & Appearance
Pekingese have a small and compact build with a sturdy and well-balanced body. They have a low-slung, rectangular shape, and their legs are relatively short in proportion to their body. Despite their small size, Pekingese have a robust and muscular structure, giving them a solid feel.

Height and Weight: On average, Pekingese dogs typically stand between 15-23 cm at the shoulder. They are a small toy breed, and their weight usually ranges from 3-6 kg. However, it's important to note that individual Pekingese may vary slightly in size, with some being smaller or larger than the average range.

Pekingese dogs are instantly recognizable with their unique and endearing features. They have broad and flat faces with a pronounced wrinkled forehead. Their large, round, and dark eyes are set wide apart and give them a soulful expression. Pekingese have a broad, flat, and pushed-in noses with wide open nostrils.

One of the most distinguishing features of the breed is its profuse double coat. They have a long, straight, and dense outer coat that is coarse to the touch. The undercoat is soft and thick, providing insulation and protection against weather conditions. Pekingese coats come in a variety of colors, including black, red, fawn, cream, sable, and various combinations of these colors.

Uses By Humans

  • Companionship: Pekingese dogs are primarily valued as loving and loyal companions. Their small size and affectionate nature make them well-suited for providing comfort and companionship to individuals, including the elderly and those living in smaller living spaces.

  • Symbol of Status: In ancient China, Pekingese dogs were associated with wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Their ownership was a sign of high social standing and privilege, and they were restricted to the royal family and court officials. Even today, Pekingese dogs are appreciated for their association with prestige and luxury.

  • Therapeutic Support: Pekingese dogs have shown their ability to provide emotional support and therapeutic benefits to humans. Their calm and affectionate nature, coupled with their intuitive understanding of human emotions, make them suitable therapy dogs. They can bring comfort and emotional relief to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional distress.

Temperament
Pekingese dogs are known for their dignified, independent, and sometimes stubborn nature. They have a regal and self-assured demeanor that reflects their historical association with Chinese royalty. Despite their small size, Pekingese possess a courageous spirit and can be protective of their loved ones. They are typically loyal and devoted to their families, forming strong bonds and becoming dedicated companions.

Health & Care
Pekingese dogs, like many toy breeds, may be prone to certain health issues. Their brachycephalic anatomy can contribute to respiratory problems and overheating, making it essential to provide them with a cool and well-ventilated environment. Pekingese may also be susceptible to eye problems, such as corneal ulcers and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for their overall well-being.

Trainability
While Pekingese dogs may not excel in activities that require high levels of obedience and agility, they can still learn and perform basic commands and tricks. It's important to approach their training with understanding, patience, and a positive reinforcement-based approach to achieve the best results. Pekingese dogs have a reputation for being independent and somewhat stubborn, which can affect their trainability. While they are intelligent dogs, their strong-willed nature may require patience and consistent training methods.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, praise, and treats, can be highly effective in training Pekingese dogs. They respond well to gentle and patient handling, and consistent, reward-based training methods can help motivate them.

  • Socialization: Early and extensive socialization is crucial for Pekingese dogs. Exposing them to different people, animals, and environments from a young age can help them develop confidence and adaptability. It can also aid in minimizing potential behavioral issues and fearfulness toward strangers.

  • Patience and Consistency: Pekingese dogs may take a bit more time and patience during training sessions. Consistency in commands, routines, and expectations is essential. Short, engaging training sessions with breaks in between can help maintain their focus and prevent boredom.

  • Obedience Training:  Basic obedience training, such as teaching commands like sit, stay, and come, should be incorporated into their training routine. Ensuring that they have a solid foundation in obedience can contribute to a well-behaved and manageable Pekingese.

In summary, Pekingese dogs serve primarily as companions and lapdogs, providing emotional support and companionship to humans. While their trainability may require patience and consistency, they can learn and respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques. With proper socialization and consistent training, Pekingese dogs can become well-behaved and affectionate companions.