Pekingese Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Pekingese
The Pekingese is a dignified, opinionated toy companion bred for centuries inside the Chinese imperial court, and it still carries itself like royalty. Compact yet surprisingly heavy for its size, it wears a long, coarse double coat with a lion-like mane that demands regular, committed grooming to prevent painful mats. This is a brachycephalic, flat-faced breed, so labored breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, and serious heat sensitivity are honest realities that owners must plan around, especially in warm weather. Calm, loyal, and independent rather than eager to please, the Pekingese bonds closely with its household while staying aloof with strangers. It suits quiet homes and apartments but needs cool environments and gentle, strictly limited exertion.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsMinimal
Energy levelLower than most
TrainabilityLower than most
Grooming effortDefining trait
SheddingHigher than most
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitDefining trait
Good with childrenLower than most
Good with other dogsTypical
First-time ownersLower than most
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Where this breed shines
- Calm, low-exercise companion well suited to quiet apartment homes
- Deeply loyal and devoted to its household
- Dignified, self-assured temperament with modest activity needs
Things to consider
- Brachycephalic flat face brings breathing difficulty and serious heat sensitivity
- Long double coat requires frequent, committed grooming to avoid mats
- Independent and stubborn, so training takes patience and consistency
History
The Pekingese is an ancient Chinese breed developed as a cherished companion of the imperial family, where it was regarded as a sacred lion dog. For generations it lived exclusively within the palace, and the breed reached the West in the nineteenth century. It has remained a devoted companion dog ever since.
Temperament
Regal, self-possessed, and loyal, the Pekingese is affectionate with its chosen people and reserved with outsiders. It is calm and low-energy indoors, with a stubborn streak that rewards patience over force. Confident and brave, it can be surprisingly bold for a small lapdog.
Questions to ask a Pekingese breeder
- How do you select breeding dogs for more open nostrils and easier breathing?
- Have the parents been evaluated for breathing (BOAS), patellas, and eye health?
- What guidance do you give owners on heat management and exercise limits?
Health considerations to discuss
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Educational, non-diagnostic; veterinary airway assessment and screening
Heat intolerance. Educational, non-diagnostic; veterinary guidance and careful management
Eye conditions and corneal problems. Educational, non-diagnostic; CAER eye examination screening
Intervertebral disc disease. Educational, non-diagnostic; veterinary orthopedic screening
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Pekingese breed overview · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Pekingese litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Pekingese puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Pekingese listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Pekingese puppies cost?
Listed puppies currently range from $400 to $2,000. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Pekingese breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.