BreedHealth

Pekingese Health Guide

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Understanding the health profile of the Pekingese helps owners make informed decisions about screening, insurance, and preventive care. Like many pedigree breeds, the Pekingese is prone to certain hereditary and acquired health conditions, most notably Patellar Luxation, Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). With attentive care, most Pekingeses can be expected to live 12–14 years. Smaller breeds often enjoy longer lifespans but can be prone to dental disease and patellar luxation; regular dental care and weight monitoring are particularly important.

Lifespan 12–14 years
Documented Conditions 5
Size Category small
Group Toy

Conditions Affecting Pekingeses

  • Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) High Risk Hereditary
    Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 3-7 years Est. treatment cost: £3,000-£8,000

    IVDD occurs when the cushioning discs between vertebrae degenerate and herniate, pressing on the spinal cord. Chondrodystrophic breeds are predisposed due to premature disc mineralisation. Can cause pain, paralysis, or loss of bladder control.

    Key symptoms: Back or neck pain · Reluctance to move · Weakness or paralysis in limbs · Loss of bladder or bowel control · +1 more
    Full details, symptoms & treatment
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) High Risk Hereditary
    Category: Eye Typical onset: 3-8 years Est. treatment cost: £0 (management only)

    PRA is a group of hereditary diseases causing progressive degeneration of the photoreceptor cells in the retina. It leads to night blindness first, followed by complete blindness. There is no treatment, but DNA tests exist for many forms.

    Key symptoms: Night blindness (early sign) · Reluctance to enter dark rooms · Dilated pupils · Reduced daytime vision · +1 more
    Full details, symptoms & treatment
  • Patellar Luxation Moderate Risk Hereditary
    Category: Orthopedic Typical onset: 4 months - 6 years Est. treatment cost: £1,500-£3,500

    Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove in the femur. It can be medial (inward) or lateral (outward) and ranges from grade 1 (occasional slipping) to grade 4 (permanent dislocation).

    Key symptoms: Intermittent skipping on hind leg · Sudden leg lifting · Bunny-hopping · Hind limb lameness · +1 more
    Full details, symptoms & treatment

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