How long do Pekingese live and what does it depend on?
When we hear about a dog breed such as a Pekingese, most people immediately think of pictures of these cute fluffy dogs with a flattened nose and bulging eyes, which are somewhat similar to plush toys.
What kind of breed?
This dog has a temperament that thinks that it is much more than it really is. Self-esteem is the middle name of a Pekingese. The watchful nature of the dog makes it the best guard dog, and the size is suitable for a house of any size, from an apartment to a huge palace.
If a person wants to live with a dog that will run his house like an "iron paw", then the Pekingese is what you need. He is affectionate with family members, but independent in order to need constant attention. If we talk about strangers, then his attitude towards them varies from aloof to welcoming - it all depends on the particular dog.
The Pekingese, who should weigh no more than 6 kg, loves to regularly walk in the park and play with toys indoors, but this breed is of low activity.
However, exercise is good for the dog, so it is necessary to ensure that he goes in for sports on a daily basis. Do not give in to the impulse to carry your pet everywhere in your arms and save him in any situations. He will be happy if the owner allows him to remain a dog, and he will behave much better.
The bold yet humorous nature of the Pekingese can make him an excellent family companion under the right circumstances. But it may not be suitable for a family with small children. Pekingese are small dogs and can get injured if played too roughly. They may even snap at a child if they are afraid.
Pekingese are not easy to teach breeds. They are stubborn and see no reason to follow any rules, at least those that they consider unimportant. This breed generally does what it wants.
However, there are Pekingese who compete successfully in tests of agility, speed and obedience. These types of competitions can replace complex workouts and activities in general.
How old do they live at home?
The average lifespan of a Pekingese is 10 to 14 years maximum. Breed health problems can include the following troubles:
- brachycephalic upper respiratory tract syndrome;
- degenerative heart valve disease;
- dislocation of the patella;
- pododermatitis, diaper rash (face fold);
- pyloric stenosis (pyloric hypertrophy syndrome in adults);
- dysplasia of the congenital elbow joint;
- dysplasia of odontoid processes;
- intervertebral hernia of the perineum;
- intervertebral hernia;
- hydrocephalus;
- atlantoaxial subluxation;
- entropion;
- keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eyes);
- corneal ulceration;
- proptosis;
- achondroplasia - genetic dwarfism, adopted as the breed standard;
- cryptorchidism;
- trichaz;
- ulcerative keratitis.
Not all of these diseases are found in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict if they will appear in the future.
Factors Affecting Lifetime
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems - just as all humans have the ability to inherit a certain disease. It is best not to take puppies from a breeder who does not guarantee that the puppies are healthy. Cautious breeders test their pedigree dogs for genetic diseases and only breed the healthiest and most beautiful individuals. But, even in spite of the excellent pedigree, the puppy can still develop diseases.
It is worth remembering that once the puppy is in the house, you can protect him from one of the most common health problems - obesity.
Maintaining your Pekingese at a normal weight is one of the easiest ways to prolong your pet's life. To do this, you should regularly check with your veterinarian.
Temperament
They began to breed this breed of dogs in the imperial palace of China. Pekingese were highly valued and often presented to noble persons. For this reason, this kind of royal majesty is still in their character. Some dogs consider themselves royalty and expect their owners to treat them appropriately.
The modern Pekingese is different from its ancestors. This breed today has slightly shorter legs and a flatter muzzle. This breed is incredibly stubborn, non-aggressive and condescending. And yet, such character traits as affection and playfulness, they will show only with their beloved owners.
A Pekingese, be it a boy or a girl, will gladly walk with the owner through the bustling city, that's just preferable to physical activity for him will remain a soft and comfortable pillow.
Pekingese are great companions for seniors who have time to devote their full attention to the dog. They adore the family they live in, but are wary of strangers.
Pekingese will be happy living in both a large house and a small apartment, as they do not need a lot of activity to stay healthy.... They like to walk proudly around their surroundings, they like to play outdoors, but they become less playful with age.
How to take care of it properly?
The Pekingese has a long beautiful coat and a thick fluffy mane on the neck and shoulders, tufts of hair on the ends of the ears, tail and paws. Grooming this glamorous dog is not as difficult as it might seem. Regular grooming will help keep the coat healthy. A dog breeder is the best source for grooming tips, so don't hesitate to ask questions for valuable advice.
Pekingese fur needs to be brushed daily, every other day or twice a week - it depends on the dog itself.
To do this, you need to slightly moisten the wool with water or a special agent and walk with a brush, but it is better that such a brush is made of natural wool. You need to start combing from the head, slowly moving to the tail. Brushing and removing excess hair encourages new growth.
If the Pekingese lives in an apartment or house, you can trim his fur to make it easier to care for him. You can also regularly take your pet to a specialist who will trim the brushes of wool on the paws so that dust and dirt do not collect on them... The second option is to completely shave off the coat, leaving only the mane around the head and the pompom at the tip of the tail.
If it is not possible to take your dog to a specialist, you can do haircuts yourself. Over time, the owner may well learn how to make beautiful and unusual haircuts professionally.
The claws should be trimmed as needed - usually every week or every two weeks. Ears should be checked to make sure they are clean. If your ears become dirty, use a special cleaner recommended by your veterinarian. Toy breeds like the Pekingese are prone to periodontal disease because they have many teeth. You need to brush your teeth with a veterinarian approved toothpaste for good health and fresh breath.
Behavioral factors
Pekingese are generally well-behaved, but they tend to bark. They will bark at people, animals, cars, and even autumn leaves blown along the road by the wind. When left alone for long periods of time, their barking can get out of hand. People who work a lot are not advised to have a Pekingese. They are more suitable for retirees, families with someone at home, or for those who work from home.
Pekingese is very independent, therefore it needs to be driven more on a leash, and not carried in a bag or on hands - it is worth giving your pet the opportunity to communicate with the surrounding nature, people and other animals.
For information on the characteristics of the Pekingese dog breed, see the next video.
