Small but full of courage, he is known for his unique appearance and independent temperament.

Originally from China, the Pekingese is an ancient breed, with a rich history dating back more than two thousand years. Revered by Chinese royalty, he was considered a symbol of nobility, being treated as a member of the imperial family.

Only in the mid-19th century, during the invasion of the Summer Palace in Beijing, was the breed taken to the West, where it became popular, especially in England. According to the Brazilian Cinophilia Confederation (CBKC), the Pekingese belongs to the group of companion dogs and is known for its striking personality and different appearance.

Below, check out 4 interesting characteristics of the Pekingese dog!

The Pekingese has an unmistakable appearance, reminiscent of a small lion, with a characteristic mane around its neck. According to CBKC, it is a small dog, weighing around 5 kg – considered one of the smallest dogs in the world – but surprisingly robust for its size.

This dog’s body is small and muscular, with a wide head, large, dark eyes, and a short snout. Its ears are heart-shaped and close to its head, framed by long bangs. The tail, in turn, is high and curved over the body. He has a long and elegant coat, with varied colors.

The Pekingese is a courageous and loyal dog, characteristics that reflect its noble origins. He is known for being independent, but also very attached to his owner, forming deep and lasting bonds. Furthermore, due to its size, it is a good companion for people who live in apartments and houses without a yard.

Despite its affectionate nature, it can be reserved with strangers. His temperament is balanced: he is neither excessively shy nor aggressive, but acts calmly and confidently. Furthermore, it is a calmer animal, not liking games as much.

As it is a small breed, the Pekingese does not need large amounts of food, but it is important to offer a balanced and adequate diet to maintain its health. Additionally, the breed can be prone to respiratory problems due to its brachycephalic anatomy (short snout), as well as a predisposition to eye and spine problems. Therefore, it is essential to make regular visits to the veterinarian to monitor their health.

Although an intelligent dog, the Pekingese can be a little stubborn, which requires patience and consistency during training. Therefore, starting education as a puppy is essential to ensure that he learns basic commands and socializes properly. Additionally, he responds best to positive, reward-based training methods, as excessive pressure can cause him to withdraw.