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Pekingese
Toy breed from China
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Pekingese
The Pekingese is a small, compact toy dog with a long, profuse double coat, a distinctive flat-faced expression, a rolling gait, and a regal bearing. It was originally bred for Chinese royalty. Temperament traits include loyalty, independence, confidence, courage, affection, and alertness. However, individual dogs may vary. The breed has low energy (score 2 out of 5) and low trainability (score 2). Grooming needs are high (score 5), and shedding is also high (score 4). It is not highly recommended for children (score 2) but is moderately compatible with other dogs (score 3). Apartment suitability is high (score 4). Adult weight is estimated between 3.2 and 6.4 kg for both sexes, and height is estimated between 15 and 23 cm. Lifespan is estimated between 12 and 14 years. All measurements are modelled estimates and should be treated as approximate.
Quick facts
Pekingese at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupToy
OriginChina
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight3.2–6.4 kilogram
Female weight3.2–6.4 kilogram
Male height15–23 centimetre
Female height15–23 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Pekingese is an ancient breed developed in the Chinese imperial court, where it was held sacred in the Imperial Palace in Peking (now Beijing). For over 1000 years, it was exclusively owned by royalty. The breed's history outside China began after British troops entered the Forbidden City in 1860 during the Opium Wars, when Western dogs were brought to England. The breed's origins are in China, and it is classified in the Toy group. Its recognition status varies by registry, so not all kennel clubs may recognize it uniformly.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
3.2–6.4 kilogramAdult weight15–23 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesDoubleCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Loyalindependentconfidentcourageousaffectionatealert
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Lower exercise demand
May require patient training
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Higher shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Pekingese-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher shedding can require frequent coat and home maintenance.Supported by sheddingScore: 4
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Growth chart
Pekingese puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight3.2–6.4 kilogramAdult female weight3.2–6.4 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Pekingese?
Adult Pekingese are estimated to weigh between 3.2 and 6.4 kg and stand 15 to 23 cm tall. Their estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the Pekingese temperament like?
Pekingese are described as loyal, independent, confident, courageous, affectionate, and alert. However, individual dogs may not display all these traits, and behavior can vary.
How much exercise does a Pekingese need?
Pekingese have low energy (score 2 out of 5), so they require minimal exercise. Short walks and indoor play are typically sufficient.
What are the grooming requirements for a Pekingese?
Grooming needs are high (score 5) due to their long double coat. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats, and they shed heavily (score 4).
Is a Pekingese good for families with children or other pets?
Pekingese are not highly recommended for children (score 2 out of 5) but are moderately compatible with other dogs (score 3). Supervision and proper introductions are important.
Is a Pekingese suitable for apartment living?
Yes, Pekingese are well-suited to apartments (score 4 out of 5) due to their small size and low exercise needs.
Where did the Pekingese originate?
The Pekingese originated in China, specifically developed in the Chinese imperial court. They were exclusively owned by royalty for over 1000 years.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.