Pekingeses are heavy shedders. Regular brushing and a good vacuum are non-negotiable.

Pekingese

Q: Are Pekingeses good with kids?

Pekingeses can be hit or miss with young children. They tend to do better with older, calmer kids who know how to handle dogs.

Q: Are Pekingeses easy to train?

Pekingeses can be challenging to train. They have an independent streak and won't do things unless they see the point.

Q: How much does a Pekingese cost in the UK?

A Pekingese puppy from a reputable UK breeder typically costs £600–£1 500. Be wary of anything significantly cheaper — it usually means a puppy farm.

Q: How long do Pekingeses live?

Pekingeses typically live 12–14 years. Smaller breeds tend to live longer — one of the perks.

Q: Are Pekingeses hypoallergenic?

No. Pekingeses are not hypoallergenic. They shed high amounts of hair and dander. If allergies are a concern, consider a Poodle or Poodle cross.

Q: Do Pekingeses bark a lot?

Pekingeses bark at a moderate level. They'll alert you to strangers but won't drive the whole street mad.

A Chinese imperial companion who has never forgotten its royal status. Dignified, opinionated, and utterly devoted.

Small breedlow energy

Heavy shedderModerate barkerHard to trainNot ideal with small kidsOK with cats

Weight

3–6kg

Lifespan

12–14 years

Exercise

30–45 min/day

Shedding

Heavy shedding

Barking

Moderate barker

Training

Challenging

ForTheBreed Editorial

Published 1 April 2026 · Updated 15 April 2026

Our breed guides are researched using Kennel Club data, BVA health scheme reports, and peer-reviewed veterinary sources. No sponsorships or affiliate relationships influence our assessments.

Do Pekingeses shed?

Heavy shedder

Yes — Pekingeses are heavy shedders. There's no polite way to say it: if you get a Pekingese, dog hair becomes part of your home décor. Invest in a good de-shedding brush (a Furminator is popular with Pekingese owners) and a strong vacuum cleaner. Shedding peaks twice a year — spring and autumn — when they fully blow their undercoat.

Are Pekingeses good with kids?

Not ideal with small kids

Pekingeses can be hit or miss with young children. They tend to do better with older kids (8+) who know how to approach dogs calmly. They can be wonderful companions — but early socialisation and teaching children how to interact with dogs properly is essential.

Are Pekingeses good with cats?

Generally cat-compatible

Pekingeses can get along well with cats, especially if raised together from puppyhood. Their loyal nature means they're generally not fixated on chasing. Introduce them slowly — keep the cat's exit routes open and never force interaction. Most Pekingeses and cats eventually settle into an easy coexistence, sometimes even becoming friends.

Are Pekingeses easy to train?

Challenging to train

Pekingeses are honest work to train — they have an independent streak and won't follow a command unless they understand why it benefits them. Patience and consistency are non-negotiable. Short sessions with high-value treats (think chicken, not dry kibble) get better results than long frustrating drills. Puppy classes are strongly recommended — not because they need it more than other breeds, but because early foundations make life significantly easier.

Do Pekingeses bark a lot?

Moderate barker

Pekingeses bark at a moderate level — they'll alert you to strangers or unusual sounds, but won't bark continuously for no reason. Separation anxiety can increase barking in any breed. If left alone too long, a Pekingese may become vocal — something to factor in if you work long hours. With consistent training ("quiet" command + reward), most Pekingeses can be taught when barking is and isn't appropriate.

Are Pekingeses hypoallergenic?

Not hypoallergenic

No — Pekingeses are not hypoallergenic. They shed high amounts of hair and dander, which is the main allergen trigger for most people. If allergies are a dealbreaker, consider a Poodle, Bichon Frise, or a Poodle-cross (Cockapoo, Cavapoo, Labradoodle) instead — all produce much less dander.

How much exercise does a Pekingese need?

Pekingeses need 30–45 min/day of exercise daily. They're a relatively low-maintenance breed in this respect — shorter walks suit them fine, and they're perfectly happy with a relaxed routine. Good for owners who can't commit to marathon exercise sessions daily.

Mental exercise matters as much as physical. A Pekingese with a bored brain will find its own entertainment — usually involving your sofa or your shoes. Training sessions, puzzle feeders, and nose-work games all count.

Pekingese health problems

Like all breeds, Pekingeses are prone to certain conditions. Knowing about them upfront means earlier detection, better outcomes, and fewer surprise vet bills.

Dental disease. Smaller breeds have crowded teeth and are prone to periodontal issues. Brush teeth regularly.
Luxating patella. Kneecap slipping, especially common in small breeds.
Obesity. The most preventable health problem across all dog breeds. Keep them at a healthy weight.
Annual vet checks. Catching problems early makes all the difference.

How long do Pekingeses live?

Pekingeses typically live 12–14 years. Smaller breeds generally live longer — one of the genuine advantages of a small dog.

Lifespan is heavily influenced by weight management, exercise, genetics, and access to regular vet care. A Pekingese at a healthy weight, with good genetics and regular check-ups, will typically live toward the top of that range.

How much does a Pekingese cost in the UK?

A Pekingese puppy from a reputable KC-registered UK breeder typically costs £600–£1 500.

If you see a Pekingese puppy advertised for significantly less than £600, be very cautious. Low prices are the most common red flag for puppy farms.

The purchase price is just the start. First-year costs typically include:

Vaccinations: ~£80–120
Neutering/spaying: £200–400 depending on size and vet
Microchipping (mandatory in UK): ~£20–30
Bed, crate, leads, collar: £100–250
Food (per year): £400–£1,200+ depending on size and diet
Pet insurance: £20–£45/month (see below)
Routine vet visits: £50–200/year

Total first-year cost beyond the puppy price: typically £1,500–£3,000.

Pekingese pet insurance

Pet insurance for a Pekingese in the UK typically costs £20–£45/month for comprehensive lifetime cover.

Lifetime cover is strongly recommended over cheaper time-limited or maximum-benefit policies. Once a condition is diagnosed and treated, lifetime cover continues to pay for it every year. Time-limited policies exclude it after 12 months — exactly when chronic conditions become expensive.

Compare quotes from Petplan, ManyPets, Waggel, and Animal Friends — all have strong reputations for actually paying out claims. Always check the annual limit (aim for £7,000+ per condition) and whether hereditary conditions are covered.