A healthy, well-bred Pekingese
can live as long as 15 years, though 10 years to 12
years is more common. The breed has a tendency
toward eye problems and breathing problems,
according to many experienced owners and breeders.
The dog has a very small skull and a flattened face
that contribute to these conditions. A new owner
should be aware of the possibilities from the
beginning.
Eye ulcers may develop almost spontaneously. There
are different types of corneal ulcers, including
those caused by trauma to the eye or infections.
This condition can be treated to prevent pain and
further infection. If you suspect any level of eye
problem with your Pekingese, contact your
veterinarian immediately. There is also a condition
known as the refractory ulcer that heals poorly.
These tend to occur more often in middle-aged or
older dogs. The Pekingese is considered one of the
more commonly affected breeds.
The Pekingese may develop
breathing problems, especially if left outside for
any extended period. The flattened face and nose
structure contribute to this condition as well. If
your Pekingese develops a problem with breathing,
the dog may have trouble with body temperature
because it cannot regulate this temperature in hot
or cold weather. Pekingese may also have pinched
nostrils and even a slight amount of extra tissue in
the throat that can add to the breathing problem.
Owners should also pay extra attention to potential
back problems with the Pekingese because of its body
structure. If you pick up your pet, give the back
adequate support with the hands under the chest and
stomach. Some Pekingese also have trouble with
climbing stairs, especially those that are older.
The Pekingese can also be prone to problems such as
luxating patella (moving or dislocated kneecap).
This is a problem with several breeds of dog and the
Pekingese is one the list.
One of the problems unique to the Pekingese is
injury to the eyes, which are somewhat exposed
because they do not sit in the eye socket as do the
eyes of many other dogs. Owners should take extra
care to protect their pet from damaging the eyes on
sharp objects and the edges of furniture. For this
reason, it is best not to expect or encourage your
Pekingese to take part in rough play, especially
with children. In addition to this, the Pekingese is
not prone to excessive moisture or tearing around
the eye. If you notice something unusual in this
area, contact your veterinarian immediately.
There are a few things you can do to give your
Pekingese a long, healthy life. A proper diet is one
of the things the owner can control. This breed
tends to have trouble with stomach gas if fed
lower-priced commercial foods that contain corn, soy
or wheat. Many dogs are actually allergic to these
contents. You may want to start your Pekingese puppy
on fresh foods such as lean meat, vegetables and
even some fruit. One study shows that a dog on a
diet that contains the right amount of calories and
nutrients may live almost two years longer. One of
the key things to look for in planning your
Pekingese’s diet is the level of minerals and
nutrients such as calcium and lean-meat protein.
Some owners have consistently fed their dogs the
same fresh foods they bring home from the store for
themselves. The difference in activity and energy
has been noticeable, according to these owners.
A Pekingese may want to walk and exercise, but then
again, individual dogs sometimes show no interest in
this. Some regular exercise, even a short walk,
would probably be good for your Pekingese. It will
help your pet keep its weight from getting out of
control.
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