Independent dog care guides · Sourced from veterinary references · Written for owners everywhereHow we workPet insurance
Straight answers for dog people, everywhere.
Hound Handbook
Breed profile

Pekingese

A small, heavy-boned toy with a lion's mane and a dignified, self-possessed manner. The flat face brings real breathing and eye risks.

Long-coated fawn and white Pekingese with a black face sitting on a grooming table
A Pekingese in full coatPhoto: SheltieBoy / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Weight
3–6 kg7–13 lb
Height
15–23 cm6–9 in
Lifespan
12–14 yrs
Group
Toy
Origin
China
Popularity
#90 US#91 UK · 2025

Known for: Flat-friendlyLap dogs

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Dignified, Loyal, Independent, Aloof.

Health problems to know about

Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed. Veterinary organisations in several countries urge buyers to choose dogs with longer muzzles or health-tested parents, because breathing problems are common and can be severe.

  • Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
  • Brachycephalic ocular syndrome (corneal ulcers, eye prolapse)
  • Skin fold dermatitis
  • Intervertebral disc disease
  • Patellar luxation

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Short walks of up to 30 minutes a day, kept gentle in warm weather. Daily brushing of the long coat, plus cleaning and drying the facial folds. Check the eyes every day.

A good fit for

Calm adult homes and flats, people who want a companion more than an exercise partner.

Probably not ideal for

Hot climates, homes with young children, owners unprepared for eye and airway vet bills. Ask breeders for BOAS grading.

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

Similar breeds

All breeds

Related guides