Pekingese: thick undercoat and time for careful brushing
The Pekingese has a short body beneath coarse outer hair and thick, soft undercoat. Brushing is a substantial part of the routine even though the dog is small. Suitable activity and a comfortable, uncluttered environment also deserve planning.
Ideal upper weights and a distinct waist
Both FCI and earlier UK descriptions give ideal weight not exceeding 5 kg for males and 5.4 kg for females, without a numerical shoulder height. Overall balance remains part of the description.
The body is relatively short with a level back and distinct waist. Moderately long, straight outer hair forms a neck mane above thick, softer undercoat. Feathering appears on ears, legs, tail and toes, but excessive volume should not hide the shape or impede activity.
Work through the coat in manageable sessions
The UK grooming category is daily. The AKC sets aside at least an hour of brushing weekly, with a slicker or metal comb for tangles and occasional baths. The weekly time allowance and daily frequency describe different aspects of the job; a tangled coat may require more time.
Regular nail trimming is included. The AKC also advises an environment without objects that can jab or irritate the exposed eyes. Ask a groomer to demonstrate gentle undercoat work, and consider the space where the dog moves as well as the grooming table.
Activity at the individual dog’s pace
The UK exercise category is up to half an hour, with a flat or apartment and small or medium garden in either setting. The AKC describes modest activity at the dog’s own pace. Allow suitable shared outings without turning that broad description into a guarantee that one fixed duration suits every individual.
Compare very different coat jobs
The Japanese Chin has long silky hair with its own weekly-brush and monthly-bath guidance. The Chinese Crested’s Powderpuff has a soft veil and daily brushing, while its hairless variety needs separate skin care. Coat length alone does not identify the layers or the handling needed.
Sources and further reading
Pekingese at a glance
These earlier UK breed guides are starting points for comparison. Details may have changed, and individual dogs vary.
- Breed group
- Toy
- Size
- Small
- Daily exercise
- Up to 30 minutes per day
- Grooming frequency
- Every day
- Coat length
- Long
- Sheds
- Yes
- Suggested home size
- Flat / apartment
- Town or country
- Town or country
- Garden recommendation
- Small / medium garden
- Lifespan
- Over 12 years
FCI breed standard
Standard guidance describes the breed ideal; individual dogs vary.
- Origin
- China
- Group
- 9 - Companion and Toy Dogs
- Section
- 8 - Japan Chin and Pekingese
- Height
- Not specified in this standard
- Weight
- Males: Ideal weight: up to 5 kg; Females: Ideal weight: up to 5.4 kg
The Pekingese figures are ideal upper weights, not a complete weight range. The standard also stresses a small but sturdy body with substantial bone.
Official FCI standard (PDF)
Standard effective from 2026-09-08; checked 2026-10-15





