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Toy · People's Republic of China

Pekingese

A walker's guide to the Pekingese: how much exercise they need, what to expect on and off the lead, and what to ask the owner before the first walk.

Toy, 3 to 6 kgSteadyFlat-facedHeat sensitiveHeavy coatLow staminaStubborn
Exercise a day30 min
Energy1 of 5
Walk styleSlow, rolling, dignified
With other dogsAloof, holds its ground

Overview

Pekingese were bred for centuries as companions to the emperors of China and were not seen in the West until the 1860s. The breed kept its sense of rank. It is independent, dignified and affectionate on its own terms, and it does not take kindly to being hurried, carried about or bossed by other dogs.

Physically it is a toy dog with a lot of coat, a very short muzzle and a low, rolling gait. The breathing and the heat tolerance of a flat-faced breed set the limits on every walk. A Pekingese is a dog you potter with, not one you exercise.

Exercise and walking needs

Two walks of ten to twenty minutes are plenty for most adults. They like to amble, investigate and sit down when they have had enough, and arguing with that is pointless. If the dog stops, the walk has reached its end.

Avoid warm weather entirely. Walk at dawn or dusk in summer, stay in shade, and be prepared to carry the dog home if its breathing becomes noisy.

Daily minimum30 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeEnclosed, briefly

On the walk

  • Breathing: Snorting is normal, rasping or gasping is not. Stop, rest in shade and offer water at the first sign of struggle, and ring the owner if it does not settle.
  • Pace: Slow. The Pekingese sets it and you follow. It does not belong in a brisk group walk with larger dogs.
  • Other dogs: Aloof and often grumpy with strange dogs, and not afraid of ones many times its size. Keep greetings brief and keep bouncy dogs away.
  • Eyes and coat: The large eyes are easily scratched by grass and twigs; the long coat gathers mud and seeds. Keep to clear paths and check both after the walk.

Tips for professional walkers

  1. Walk on a harness; the neck and windpipe should never take pressure.
  2. Carry water and a small towel, and keep the walk short on any warm day.
  3. Check the face folds and eyes after a walk and mention any redness in your report.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.

What to ask the owner

  • Has the dog had any airway or eye problems, and does the vet set exercise limits?
  • How far can the dog walk comfortably before it wants to stop?
  • Does it have any back or knee issues that mean it should not be lifted or should not use steps?
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