Why Are Pekingese So Rare? Understanding the Unique Appeal of an Imperial Breed
The
Pekingese, a small toy breed with a regal presence, is well known for its unique appearance, dignified temperament, and historical ties to Chinese royalty. While visually arresting and deeply loyal, the Pekingese is not commonly seen in neighborhoods today. So, why are Pekingese so rare? This article explores the historical, practical, and biological reasons behind the breed’s scarcity today.
1. Imperial Origins and Historical Exclusivity
The Pekingese originated in imperial China, where they were considered sacred and exclusively owned by Chinese royalty. The breed was so revered that owning one outside the palace was historically punishable by death. These dogs were bred to resemble Chinese guardian lions and were symbolic of spiritual power and protection.
Due to this
historical exclusivity and cultural importance, the breed spread slowly beyond China. It wasn’t until the 1860 sack of the Old Summer Palace by British troops that several Pekingese were brought to the West — including one gifted to Queen Victoria. Although these events marked the beginning of global awareness of the breed, their limited numbers persisted.
2. Breeding Challenges and Health Concerns
Pekingese are considered
brachycephalic dogs, meaning they have short, flat faces. This unique facial structure, while contributing to their adorable look, also causes certain health issues, such as:
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Corneal ulcers and eye disorders
- Skin fold dermatitis
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Luxating patella
Due to their compact body and long back, special care must be taken during play or lifting; jumping from heights can lead to injury. Also, the
selective and cautious breeding required to avoid passing on genetic issues makes responsible Pekingese breeding more difficult and limited. As a result, their numbers remain relatively low.
3. Grooming and Maintenance Deterrence
A large deterrent for potential dog owners is the
high-maintenance grooming involved with a Pekingese. Their thick, dense double coat requires frequent brushing — at least several times a week — to prevent matting and tangling.
Additional grooming routines include:
- Regular cleaning of facial folds to avoid infections
- Frequent eye wiping due to tear staining
- Trimming feathered ears, paws, and tail fringes
- Routine dental care and nail trimming
- Bathing about once a month
These tasks demand a level of attention and time that many modern pet owners may not be prepared for, discouraging mass adoption of the breed.
4. Temperament Considerations
Pekingese possess a
dignified and sometimes aloof personality. While intensely loyal and affectionate with their families, they can be standoffish with strangers. Their independent, strong-willed nature makes early and consistent training essential. They also do not tolerate rough handling, making them less ideal for families with very young children.
While these traits are cherished by breed enthusiasts, they make the Pekingese a more specialized choice, unsuitable for casual or first-time dog owners seeking an easygoing companion.
5. Lifestyle Fit and Popularity
Modern dog owners often favor breeds that require less grooming and exercise or are more outgoing and adaptable. The
Pekingese’s low to moderate activity needs and preference for calm settings make it a good fit for apartment life or quieter households, but less so for active families.
Breeds that are more tolerant of heat, require less grooming, or exhibit a more universally friendly temperament tend to be more popular, which has contributed to the Pekingese being edged out of the mainstream. Trends in dog ownership, especially among social media influencers and pop culture figures, also tilt public preference toward other flashy or novelty breeds.
6. Limited Ethical Breeding Programs
In an effort to preserve the breed’s health standards and temperament, many breeders are highly selective and only operate on a small scale. The rarity of ethical breeders—combined with a commitment to breed preservation over commercial expansion—further reduces the number of Pekingese puppies available for adoption or sale.
This tight control over breeding ensures the purity and well-being of the breed, but inadvertently limits its availability.
7. Summary: Why Pekingese Remain Rare
To summarize, Pekingese are rare due to a combination of:
- Historical factors limiting early global spread
- Health concerns intrinsic to their anatomy
- High grooming and care demands
- Selective, small-scale ethical breeding practices
- Temperamental incompatibilities with modern households
Although not widely encountered, the Pekingese retains a dedicated fan base that values their
lion-like majesty, affectionate loyalty, and ancient heritage. For people with the time, knowledge, and commitment to meet their needs, the Pekingese can be a deeply rewarding companion.
Final Thoughts
Their rarity makes Pekingese all the more special. For those captivated by their noble air and rich history, owning a Pekingese is a unique experience that offers both charm and companionship. Just remember—this breed is not just an elegant showpiece, but a legacy wrapped in fur.
