What To Know About Pekingese

Understanding the Pekingese Breed

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Pekingese dogs have distinct health characteristics that require special attention. The risk factors for IVDE and the unique liver size measurements highlight the importance of breed-specific health assessments. Understanding these factors can aid in better health management and care for Pekingese dogs, potentially guiding breeding programs to reduce the prevalence of certain health issues.

The Pekingese is a small, brachycephalic dog breed known for its distinctive appearance and unique health considerations. This article explores key characteristics and health factors associated with Pekingese dogs, drawing on recent research findings.

Health Concerns: Intervertebral Disk Extrusion (IVDE)

Intervertebral disk extrusion (IVDE) is a significant health concern for Pekingese dogs. A study involving 426 Pekingese identified several risk factors for IVDE, including age, coat color, and body weight. The study found that IVDE was uncommon in dogs under two years of age and primarily occurred in the thoracolumbar and cervical regions of the spine. Notably, black coat color and the presence of calcified disks in the T10-L4 region were associated with increased odds of developing IVDE. Additionally, spayed female dogs and those with a higher body weight were more likely to experience IVDE1.

Radiographic Liver Size

Pekingese dogs also exhibit unique characteristics in terms of liver size. Research comparing liver sizes across different dog breeds found that Pekingese have a smaller normal radiographic liver size compared to other breeds. Specifically, the liver volume/body weight ratio and liver length/T11 vertebral length ratio were significantly smaller in Pekingese. These findings suggest that breed-specific criteria should be used when assessing liver size in Pekingese dogs, with a recommended liver length of 4.64 times the length of the T11 vertebra2.