Dog Breed of the Week: Pekingese
Wednesday July 8, 2009
The Pekingese is a bold and hardy toy dog with an independent spirit. With a long history as the pampered companions of nobles, it's no surprise that they act a bit on the regal side. The Peke can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty of China sometime during the 8th century. For many centuries, they were highly regarded by the Chinese as divine canines.
The Pekingese may be small, but the breed is not at all fragile. Lift one up and you'll notice a muscular frame and sturdy build. Those who do not know Pekes well may find them a bit aloof and distant. Indeed, some of these dogs take a little time to warm up to new people. However, once you bond with a Peke, you'll see a loyal and affectionate lap dog.
What do you have to say about the Pekingese? Tell your 'tail' and consider submitting a photo for future use on the Dogs site.
Photo © ||alc|| on flickr
Comments
I purchased my Peke in 2001. Teddy Bear was his instant name with my friends as he was such a ball of fluff. I must say the description you wrote about a Peke’s personality fits Teddy to a “T”. I always liken him to a cat! He is aloof, totally independent and only wants affection when HE wants it. I love him totally, but if you are looking for an affectionate cuddly lapdog – this might not be the breed for you.
Several years ago my children found a peke who was lost. We took him in and put up posters in the neighborhood. At first, he seemed very lovable. He immediately took to my male Irish Setter. Within 2 days neither my children nor myself could go NEAR the Setter! The peke became ferociously possessive and would circle and attack anyone who dared go near him. I don’t know if this was normal behavior, but I sure was glad when we found his owners and they were happily reunited.
I’ve had my male Pekingese, Willow, for over 6 years now. This is the first dog I’ve had on my own as an adult, but my family has had them for years. I would never have any other kind of dog. He’s an only child and needless to say..spoiled rotten. I would also add to this description, from my experience, that these dogs are not usually kid friendly. And as I’ve found out with Willow, they are susceptible to back problems. My house has stairs and if he gets access to them his back goes out. So, baby gates are installed and he gets carried up and down….like I said..he’s spoiled rotten but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I just adopted a Peke from a rescue unit. Jacob was from a puppy mill. I have only had Jacob for 3 months and he will say I love you and he will sing. Matty Maes Angel Rescue trained him before they put him up for adoption. He is the Love of my life. He is not like most Pekes. Loves kids,dogs even cats. BUT he is King and Loves it. And I Love him.
Oh my goodness — I rescued my Peke, Jonah, from a drug addict … poor little guy had been injured and we don’t know how. Anyway, I have to say he is the most affectionate dog I have ever owned. He literally hugs me and loves to be held. He goes absolutely nuts when I come home and is as sweet as can be.
I was really surprised to read the Pekes are aloof as this doesn’t describe Jonah at all — in fact, he is the absolute opposite.
He does do the not eating thing, though. That was really interesting to read! Now I’m on to him! Ha!
God bless people who love animals!!!!!!
We rescued our Peke from a shelter. He is 10 years old but looks like a puppy. When we go for walks people are convinced he is a puppy and can’t believe he is so old. He goes nuts when we come in from work and when I lay on the floor he will rub against me and snort and cough. The only problem we have had is that some days for no reason he will not eat and then 2 or 3 days later he will start eating again. I wouldn’t trade him for the world !!!!