At a glance
The Pekingese lives 12 to 15 years, weighs 3 to 6 kg (7 to 14 lbs), and stands 15 to 23 cm (6 to 9 in) at the shoulder. Origin: the imperial Chinese court. Character: loyal, opinionated, and quietly courageous. Exercise needs: low. Key caveat: this is a heavily brachycephalic breed, meaning the severely flattened face causes Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) in many individuals, raising risk during heat, exercise, and anaesthesia. Price: £800 to £1,800 in the UK; $750 to $3,000 in the US.
Characteristics
The Pekingese is a small dog breed with a striking, lion-like appearance. Its long, dense fur forms a luxurious mane around the head, giving it a majestic look. Particularly distinctive are the large, dark eyes that provide an expressive and watchful gaze. The short legs and compact build underscore its unmistakable appearance, while the slightly upward-curving tail is carried elegantly over the back. Its coat can come in many different colors, often with a black mask that further enhances its noble expression.
Information
The Pekingese is a confident and independent dog with a distinct personality. It often displays a certain dignity and composure reminiscent of its royal past. Despite its small size, it possesses a courageous spirit and can be very watchful. It is extremely loyal to its owner and loves spending time together. It tends to be reserved with strangers, sometimes even somewhat aloof. Its intelligent and strong-willed nature makes it a special companion that requires consistent yet loving training.
Nutrition
The Pekingese requires a balanced, high-quality diet that meets its special needs. High-quality wet food is particularly suitable, as it has a high meat content and simultaneously contributes to fluid intake. This is especially important since dry food can often be hard to digest and does not provide enough moisture. The food should also be free from unnecessary additives such as artificial flavors or grain, as these can unnecessarily burden sensitive dogs. Feeding small portions throughout the day is also advisable to avoid overwhelming the Pekingese's sensitive stomach. High-quality animal proteins, healthy fats, and easily digestible carbohydrates ensure that the small dog has sufficient energy and that its coat stays healthy and shiny.
Care
The Pekingese is a demanding companion that requires loving and consistent training. Due to its long, dense coat, grooming requires special attention. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and keep the coat healthy. Particular care should be taken during warmer months to prevent heat buildup. The eye area also needs regular inspection and care, as it can be prone to irritation due to the short muzzle. In terms of living conditions, the Pekingese is adaptable and does not require excessive space or intense exercise. Walks and playful activities are sufficient to keep it physically and mentally stimulated. It is important to provide a quiet retreat, as it enjoys relaxing and is not suited to hectic environments. Despite its independence, it enjoys the closeness of its caregivers and values a close bond with its family.
Accessories
The Pekingese requires careful grooming due to its dense, long coat, making a high-quality brush and comb part of the essential equipment. A well-padded dog bed provides the comfort it loves, as it enjoys resting in comfort. For a harness, a well-fitting model that protects the sensitive neck area is important. A lightweight leash should also be chosen, as the Pekingese does not exert excessive force on walks. Small, sturdy feeding and water bowls are most suitable, as they are adapted to its compact build. A gentle dog shampoo is also recommended to keep its coat in the best condition.
History
The Pekingese is a dog breed with a long and fascinating history reaching back to ancient China. Originally, it was a companion of the Chinese imperial court and was considered a sacred animal that could only be kept by members of the imperial family. Legends say the Pekingese originated from the union of a lion and a monkey, which supposedly explains its brave character and unique appearance. Due to its special status, these small dogs were bred and revered with great care. It was not until the 19th century that some specimens reached Europe, when British troops took dogs from the imperial palace during the Second Opium War. Since then, the breed spread throughout the Western world and quickly became a popular companion dog, valued for its noble appearance and confident temperament.
Health
The Pekingese is a robust dog breed that can, however, be prone to certain health problems due to its distinctive body and head shape. Because of its short muzzle, this breed tends to experience breathing difficulties, particularly in high humidity or extreme heat. Eye problems also occur more frequently, as the large, protruding eyes can be sensitive to injuries or irritation. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is important, as excessive strain on the joints can quickly lead to discomfort. Regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate care help maintain the Pekingese's health as best as possible.
Trainability
The Pekingese is a confident and independent companion with rather moderate energy. It enjoys comfortable hours with its family but can certainly be playful and lively when it feels like it. Despite its small size, it has a strong will, which can sometimes make training challenging. Consistency and patience are important, as the Pekingese likes to have its own way. With positive reinforcement and loving yet firm training, it can be well accustomed to rules.
Pekingese price: what to expect and why it varies so much
The cost of a Pekingese puppy varies widely depending on the breeder's credentials, the parents' health certifications, and the dog's lineage. Puppies from Kennel Club Assured Breeders (UK) or AKC-registered breeders (US) with BOAS health assessments on both parents cost more upfront but typically carry lower long-term veterinary risk. Show-line dogs with championship-titled parents represent the top of the market.
Cheaper listings on classifieds sites regularly omit health screening documentation. Given that BOAS surgery (nostril widening and soft palate reduction) costs between $2,000 and $5,000 in the US and £1,500 to £3,000 in the UK, an underpriced puppy can quickly become the more expensive choice.
Prices by country (2026)
| Country | Typical range | Responsible minimum |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | £800-£1,800 | £800 |
| United States | $750-$3,000 | $750 |
| Canada | CAD 1,200-3,000 | CAD 1,200 |
| Australia | AUD 1,500-3,500 | AUD 1,500 |
| Ireland | EUR 900-2,000 | EUR 900 |
Red flags: no health certs on parents, puppies available under 8 weeks old, cash-only sales, no viewing of the mother permitted.
Monthly running costs
A healthy adult Pekingese costs roughly £80 to £150 per month (or $100 to $200 in the US) in ongoing expenses. That covers quality food (£30 to £60), grooming supplies and occasional professional grooming (£20 to £40), routine vet care and parasite prevention (£15 to £25 pro-rated). Pet insurance covering hereditary conditions including BOAS adds £30 to £60 per month in the UK; many standard policies exclude brachycephalic conditions by default, so read the small print carefully. Year-one setup costs (bed, harness, bowls, initial vet visits) typically run £200 to £400.
