Understanding the Health of Your Pekingese

Quick answer

The Pekingese is a dignified and loyal companion that requires specific attention to its respiratory, ocular, and skeletal health. Because of their unique physical structure, they are prone to conditions involving their breathing, joints, and spine. By staying observant of subtle changes in your dog's movement or breathing and maintaining a lean body condition, you can help your pet lead a comfortable life.

Brachycephalic Syndrome and Obstructive Airway Syndrome

The Pekingese is a breed with a short muzzle, which is a recognised tendency in the breed. This structure can lead to upper airway obstruction. At home, you may notice your dog making snorting, snoring, or whistling sounds while breathing, especially during exercise or in warm weather. If you notice your dog struggling to catch its breath or showing signs of blue-tinted gums, this is an emergency requiring immediate care. Your veterinarian will typically perform a physical examination and may use imaging to assess the airway. The most common mistake owners make is assuming heavy panting is normal and failing to limit activity during hot or humid conditions.

Eye Problems

Eye issues are well recognised in the breed. Because of their prominent eyes, they are susceptible to irritation, dryness, and physical injury. You might notice your dog squinting, pawing at its face, or having excessive discharge from the eyes. Your vet will use a specialized light and stain test to check the surface of the eye for scratches or ulcers. Always keep the hair around the eyes trimmed and clear of debris. If your dog suddenly holds an eye shut or the eye appears cloudy, seek veterinary attention promptly to prevent permanent damage.

Mitral Valve Disease and Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease

These heart conditions are recognised tendencies in the breed. Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease is a common concern for small breeds. You might first notice a persistent cough, especially at night, or a decrease in your dog's typical energy levels. A vet will listen for a heart murmur during a routine check-up. If a murmur is detected, an ultrasound of the heart is the standard test to assess the valve structure. Do not wait for your dog to show signs of collapse; routine wellness exams are the best way to catch these changes early.

Patellar Luxation

This condition involves the kneecap sliding out of its normal groove and is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog skipping steps, holding a back leg up for a few seconds, or showing an unusual gait. A veterinarian will physically manipulate the knee joint to check for instability. To help your dog, ensure they maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joints and provide rugs or mats on slippery floors to improve traction. If your dog is suddenly unable to bear weight on a leg, this requires a veterinary assessment to rule out a fracture or severe dislocation.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

This condition is a recognised tendency in the breed, though how this passes down is not settled. It involves the discs between the vertebrae in the spine. You might notice your dog acting stiff, being reluctant to jump or climb stairs, or showing signs of pain when their back is touched. In severe cases, you may see weakness or dragging of the back legs. A vet will perform a neurological exam to determine the location of the issue. If your dog shows any signs of paralysis or inability to stand, this is a critical emergency. Owners often make the mistake of waiting to see if the pain resolves on its own, which can lead to permanent nerve damage.

Hydrocephalus

This condition, which involves fluid accumulation in the brain, is a recognised tendency in the breed, though how this passes down is not settled. Owners might notice behavioral changes, difficulty with training, or an unusual head shape. A veterinarian will perform a physical and neurological exam to assess your dog's responsiveness and coordination. If you notice your dog acting disoriented, having seizures, or pressing their head against walls, this is an urgent situation that requires immediate veterinary intervention.

Malocclusion

Issues with how the teeth align are a recognised tendency in the breed, though how this passes down is not settled. You may notice your dog has difficulty picking up food or has chronic drooling. A vet will inspect the mouth during routine visits to ensure the teeth are not causing damage to the gums or the roof of the mouth. Keeping up with dental hygiene is essential, but if you notice your dog is in pain while eating, have your vet examine the alignment to prevent long-term dental health issues.