Many of us are taken in by the profound cuteness of Pekingese dogs. Their squashed faces and fluffy coats are hard to resist. But behind their cuddly exterior, these little pups are often labeled as ‘high-maintenance.’ But what does this term actually mean? Is the Pekingese truly a royal pain or is this an unfair reputation? Keep reading to discover the surprising truth.
To kick things off, how about a fascinating bit of canine trivia that you may not know? The Pekingese boasts an ancient lineage dating back over two thousand years. This breed was specially designed and nurtured by the Chinese nobility, even considered sacred. In fact, stealing a Pekingese was a crime punishable by death!
Their regal origins have shaped their personality. Affectionate and loyal, the Pekingese is a gem of a companion—if you understand its particular needs. But these furry pets are not for everyone. They require specific care which can be costly, time-consuming, or merely unfamiliar for some pet parents.
Let’s delve into four key aspects of Pekingese dog care—grooming, exercise, training, and health—to address the question: Is the Pekingese indeed a high-maintenance dog?
First and foremost, grooming. The Pekingese sports a lion’s mane—a long, thick coat that is notoriously difficult to manage. Brushing is a daily encounter to prevent matting and tangling. Occasional trimming keeps the hair from dragging on the floor. Plus, their faces need to be wiped regularly to avoid tear stains. To cut down grooming time, some owners opt for a ‘Puppy Cut,’ a short all-around clip. Though it might not show off the Pekingese’s full regal splendor, it makes their fur much more manageable.
If you’re saying, “Well, grooming doesn’t sound so bad,” hold on! We’ve got to talk about exercise. You might think, given their small size, that Pekingese would be a great dog for apartment living. And well, you’re partially right. Pekes are content with moderate exercise—a daily walk will suffice. However, due to their flat faces, Pekingese can have difficulty breathing, especially in the heat. Hence, they aren’t dogs you can take for a long strenuous hike or a day out in the summer sun. They are definitely indoor pets and need air conditioning to prevent overheating.
Training a Pekingese can also be a bit of a challenge. These pups are not just adorable fluff balls; they’re also incredibly smart. And with that intelligence comes a stubborn streak. This can make them a bit resistant to traditional training methods. But don’t despair—positive reinforcement, coupled with patience and consistency, can work miracles. Progress may be slow, but there will be progress.
Finally, let’s talk health. Pekingese are unfortunately prone to numerous health issues, including heart disease and eye problems, among others. Regular vet visits and the potential for special diets and medications contribute to the Pekingese’s high-maintenance label.
After all this, you may be thinking that a Pekingese sounds pretty high-maintenance indeed. And in a lot of ways, you’d be right. This breed does require a lot of special care. But if you are prepared to meet these needs, the Pekingese can make an amazing companion.
If you’re the type who enjoys pampering your pets, or if you’re in a situation where you can spend plenty of time at home, a Pekingese could be the perfect fit for you. Their affectionate nature and regal appearance can make all the effort worth it.
So, is the Pekingese a high-maintenance dog? It depends on your perspective. If you’re looking for a low-effort, low-cost, easily-trainable pet, then yes, a Pekingese is high-maintenance. But if you’re willing to invest in their care and training, these dignified dogs will reward you with their unwavering loyalty and love.
Matching your lifestyle with your pet’s needs is essential in pet ownership. It’s really about understanding what you’re stepping into—a lifetime commitment to your pet, be it a Pekingese or any other breed.
After all, isn’t providing the best for our furry family members what pet ownership is all about?
