Believe it or not, the tiny, fluffy and aristocratic Pekingese was once a guard dog. Shocking, right? Peke, as it is affectionately called, might be the least expected breed when it comes to imagining a guard dog. They may seem demure because of their cuddly size and opulent fur, but centuries ago, they rattled nerves of intruders in the palaces and monasteries of China. That’s quite the claim to fame for a pup that barely weighs more than a housecat!
So, what is it that makes these royal canines such intrepid guardians? Grab a cup of your favorite tea, settle down, and join us as we take an exciting journey through time, retracing the ancient lineage, noble history, and surprising characteristics of the Pekingese that justifies its reputation as a valiant guard dog.
The entire story pivots around the Tang Dynasty, which reigned almost 1300 years ago. The Pekingese dogs were treated like royalty by royal families, adorned with the finest jewels and protected by the most fearsome warriors. Intruders feared the mighty wrath of Pekingese, and the Pekes feared nothing in return.
While their size doesn’t quite scream “guard dog”, they make up for it with their sheer courage and loyalty. They carry their job very seriously and protect their territory and family with a passion. This trait has been passed down from their ancestors who were trained to protect palaces. No matter how small, they would stand up against any larger animals or humans that posed a threat.
Despite their change in lifestyle over the centuries, the Pekingese dogs held onto their ancient instincts. They are as territorial and protective as they were in the royal courtyards. Their loyalty to their adoptive families, and their instinct to protect them, make the Peke an excellent choice for those looking for a small but effective guard dog.
Now you might be wondering how such a small dog can provide enough security? The answer lies in their bravery and alertness. Pekes are very vocal creatures. When they sense any danger or suspicious activity, they are quick to sound the alarm with their incredibly loud bark. This alarm system gives you the time to prepare or take measures as per the situation ahead.
Their small size can also be seen as an advantage. Pekingese can fit into places larger dogs can’t, making them effective at scanning every nook and corner of the house for hidden threats.
However, before choosing a Pekingese as your guard dog, it’s critical to factor in their temperaments as well. Pekes are notoriously stubborn and require consistent training and socializing starting from an early age. If left untrained, they can become quite aggressive and might bark unnecessarily, which could lead to a lot of false alarms.
Also, keep in mind the health concerns when considering a Pekingese for a pet. Due to their brachycephalic nature (that translates to flat-faced), Pekes are prone to respiratory issues and cannot tolerate intense workouts or heat. This means a Peke might not be able to chase down an intruder like a larger breed dog, but they can alert you to suspicious activities around your home.
In conclusion, the Pekingese is indeed a good guard dog if you are looking for a brave and alert canine who is steadfastly loyal. They may not have the physical attributes like size and power typically associated with guard dogs, but their temperament and instincts make them remarkably adept at this role.
However, owning a Pekingese comes with its fair share of responsibility. Proper training and socializing are crucial, and it’s essential to educate yourself and your family about their specific health needs.
If you’re looking for a cuddly-appearing guard dog that will defend your abode with the same zeal as their ancestors in the ancient imperial palaces of China, then the Pekingese is no doubt an ideal choice. Their bravery, loyalty, and alert characteristics collectively give them the title of being a ‘Lion Dog’, and rightfully so.
In the streak of royal warriors like Chow Chows and Tibetan Mastiffs, these diminutive dogs are a surprise pack that burst with bravery and energy. They are the tiny lions that have roared their way into many people’s hearts. So, the next time you see a Pekingese, remember that you’re looking at a tiny warrior with the heart of a lion!
