The Pekingese
(Pekes)(Lion Dog)
Breed Overview
Origin: Ancient times. Original function: Lap dog. Today, Companion. This dog snores loudly and wheezes. Also known as Pekes or Lion Dog.
Extensive breeding programs were left up to palace enunuches with no expense spared. At the height of their time, the Tang Dynasty, from a.d 700 - a.d. 1000 many of these lion dogs were treated as royalty. Smaller Pekingese were called “sleeve dogs” because they could be carried in the sleeves of Chinese Masters. In 1860, the Chinese summer palace was looted by the British. Some of the loot included five royal lion dogs which were taken back to England. One of these dogs was presented to Queen Victoria and it, along with the other four, caused such interest among the British, that there was a great demand for more of these dogs. In time they became readily available and suffered from over popularity. It wasn’t long before the dogs came to America. The AKC registered the little Pekes in 1906.
No.... This is a difficult breed to train. They can learn the basics, especially if taught when very young. The Peke can benefit greatly from clicker training. This is a method that works well with difficult dogs, is simple to do and dogs like the technique. They can also benefit from strong socialization in puppyhood. Takes patience!
Crate Training
Want to crate train your Pekingese? It's easy and if you're interested, take a look and you'll see what to do. Crate training your puppy will save many headaches and problems.
Potty Training
The Pekingese puppy is difficult to house train, potty train, toilet train, housebreak or whatever you want to call it. If you have a puppy, decide if you want to crate or paper potty train it. For the best results, we have a page at Crate vs Paper Potty Training which will help you decide and from there you can get all the information you need to get the job done. Always praise the pup profusely when she goes potty in the RIGHT PLACE so she knows she has done a good thing. Either method will work for this breed.
If you have an older dog, take the dog outside every two hours until she gets the idea which door leads to her potty area. Older dogs catch on to the potty or housebreaking pretty fast once they are shown what to do.
If you happen to have a Peke with a separation anxiety problem, that can be dealt with by investing a few hours of work on your part and some "tough love."
Friendly Toward Other Dogs
Sometimes. The Pekingese will choose his dog friends. They are a bit fussy as to which dogs they will get along with.
Friendly Toward Other Pets
Surprisingly, a Pekingese is capable of sharing the house with a cat and dog. I’ve seen this for myself, otherwise I wouldn’t believe it. Note — the dog I knew did NOT grow up with the other pets in the house. She was brought in as an adult stray.
Friendly Toward Strangers
No, generally not. The Peke’s devotion is toward family only.
Playfulness
Not very playful. The Pekingese is stubborn and independent, living in his own world to a degree and would rather take a nap than get excited over a toy..
Affection
Yes, to a degree. Pekingese are loyal to family and do show some affection. They carry a reputation because they are stubborn, but they are loyal, affectionate companions to family members with no room for outsiders.
No. Not tolerant enough. Too independent, strong willed.
Low. A quiet walk each day or some play in the house is about all the Peke's need.
No. Too small to be effective.
Suggested Reading For The Pekingese
