Did you know that the Pekingese breed once accompanied Chinese emperors and dynasties, and the dogs were regarded as magical creatures that could drive away evil spirits? That’s right, these small, often overlooked dogs have a rich and royal lineage. They were treated as nothing short of divine creatures and were often carried around in special pouches attached to the owner’s robes.
In the Western world, the Pekingese dogs are adored for their unique appearance — their short legs, flat snouts, and extended hair give them an appealingly distinctive look. Aside from their looks, the Pekingese behavior sparks an interesting debate. Many people wonder if the Pekingese is a calm dog breed, given their royal lineage and the pampered environment in which they grew up.
Let’s delve into this fascinating discussion and break down some important aspects of the Pekingese temperament, including their calmness, their potential for friendship with kids and other pets, their level of independence, and more!
Though generally marked with a calm and dignified demeanor, the Pekingese is also notorious for a stubborn and independent streak. They’re not overexcited dogs, and while they enjoy a daily walk to stretch their short legs, they equally love their downtime. They’re moderately active indoors and are quite happy to lie comfortably in a corner while you go about your activities.
It is essential to note that while Pekingese are calm dogs, they are also quite courageous. Like their ancestors, these little dogs perceive themselves as big dogs and are not afraid to stand their ground. They can be quite protective, which can sometimes lead to a display of stubbornness or aggression if they feel their territory is threatened.
However, don’t be alarmed! Generally, Pekingese are loving and charming companions. They respond very well to a calm and loving home environment. A Pekingese trained with patience and kindness will indeed reward you with their trust, and this is often the key to bringing out their calm and composed side.
Regarding their interactions with children and other pets, due to their independent nature, Pekingese are not always a good match for homes with very young children. But, they can be a wonderful addition to a home with older kids who understand how to approach and handle dogs with respect and gentleness. Likewise, they can get along well with other pets, as long as they have been properly introduced and have their personal space.
The Pekingese also has a reputation for being a sturdy and long-lived breed, which is a bonus point when considering pet adoption. They are remarkably resistant to weather changes and adapt well to both hot and cold climates, thanks to their thick double coats.
Remember, like any other breed, a Pekingese’s overall temperament largely depends on upbringing, training, and socialization. Routine training, regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and positive reinforcement will help your Pekingese be not just calm and well-behaved, but also a healthy and happy companion.
Keeping a miniature lion in your apartment might have seemed unthinkable a few minutes ago, but as you can see now, it’s not so far-fetched. Pekingese, with their lion-like appearance and their regal demeanor, could be the right breed for you if you’re looking for a calm, confident, and somewhat independent dog.
Their high adaptability and loyalty to their family add to their striking personality, making them pretty compelling pets. Their gentle nature, combined with their royal past, makes them a fascinating breed and a potential pet that is not only calm but also strong and long-lived. So, if you’re looking for a dog breed that will keep you entertained and still maintain its calm demeanor, the Pekingese should be high on your list!
