All about Pekalier dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Pekalier" Breed (parent breeds: "Cavalier King Charles Spaniel" × "Pekingese")

The Pekalier weight typically ranges from 8 to 15 pounds for healthy adults. While there isn't a significant average size difference, males might sometimes be slightly heavier than females. This average size is influenced by the weight of their parent breeds: Cavaliers (13-18 lbs) and Pekingese (7-14 lbs). A healthy weight for Pekalier falls within this range, ensuring they are agile and not prone to obesity-related issues.

Wondering about the Pekalier height? As a charming crossbreed of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, the average size of a Pekalier can vary, but generally, they are small dogs.

The Pekalier, a charming cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, boasts a diverse range of Pekalier colors and coat patterns. While there isn't an "AKC recognized Pekalier colors" list due to its hybrid status, we can look to its parent breeds for common and rare Pekalier coat types.Most commonly, Pekaliers display colors from the Cavalier side, including Black and Tan, Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Ruby (solid rich red), and Blonde (often referred to as Blenheim – chestnut markings on a white ground). These are frequently seen and widely accepted.From the Pekingese heritage, you'll also find solid colors such as Fawn, Cream, Red, and Black. White Pekaliers, often with patches of another color, are also quite popular.For those seeking exotic Pekalier variations or rare Pekalier coat types, certain patterns and shades occasionally emerge. While not officially recognized for Pekaliers by major kennel clubs, these can include Brindle (streaks of different colors), Sable (black-tipped hairs over a lighter base), and sometimes even Blue or Chocolate shades, although these are much less common and often indicate recessive genes from one of the parent breeds or further back in their lineage. Keep in mind that certain "designer" colors like Merle or Lilac are not typically associated with either parent breed and would be highly unusual and potentially indicate outcrossing or a specific genetic mutation. Such unique Pekalier colors may command a different price point due to their rarity. When considering a Pekalier, inquire about the parent's coat colors as this often indicates the likely offspring colors.

The Pekalier personality is a delightful blend, often showcasing the Cavalier's affectionate nature with a touch of the Pekingese's independent charm. These small companions are generally very friendly and loyal, forming strong bonds with their families. Pekaliers tend to be quite sociable, enjoying interaction and often adapting well to various household dynamics. Their size and moderate energy levels make them highly adaptable to apartment living, though they still appreciate daily walks and playtime. With children, early socialization is key; they can be good companions for older, respectful children who understand how to interact gently with a small dog. When it comes to other pets, Pekaliers can live harmoniously with other dogs and cats, especially if introduced thoughtfully. They are known for their loving disposition, making them wonderful and devoted household members.

The Pekalier temperament offers a delightful blend of its parent breeds, making for a charming and affectionate companion dog. You can expect a friendly and sociable nature, often eager to greet both familiar faces and new acquaintances. Pekaliers are typically very loyal to their families, forming strong bonds and enjoying being at the center of attention. They are highly adaptable to apartment living, thriving in cozy indoor environments as long as they receive adequate daily walks and playtime. With children, Pekaliers are generally good-natured, especially if raised with them from a young age and taught proper interaction. Supervision is always recommended with very young children due to their smaller size. Similarly, they tend to get along well with other pets when properly introduced. While generally sweet-tempered, the Pekalier may inherit a touch of the Pekingese's independent spirit, leading to occasional stubbornness during training sessions. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key. They can also be a bit sensitive to harsh tones or being left alone for extended periods, preferring to be close to their human companions. Overall, the Pekalier personality traits make them an excellent choice for individuals or families seeking a devoted, loving, and relatively easy-going dog.

Pekalier Care: Your Pekalier, a charming mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Pekingese, requires attentive daily maintenance to thrive. Grooming needs are moderate; expect regular brushing several times a week to prevent mats and reduce shedding, with occasional professional grooming for tidying. Pay special attention to their eyes, ears, and facial folds (if present) to prevent irritation and infection. Clean eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth and check ears weekly for wax buildup or redness, cleaning gently as needed.

The Pekalier activity level is generally moderate to low, making them adaptable companions for various households. They are a delightful blend of their parent breeds, balancing the Cavalier's gentle nature with the Pekingese's more relaxed tendencies. You can expect a Pekalier to enjoy short, enthusiastic bursts of energy followed by longer periods of rest and napping – often on a comfy sofa!

I would rate the "Size" trait of the Pekalier breed a 3 out of 10.The Pekalier is a designer breed resulting from the crossing of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Pekingese, both of which are decidedly toy-sized breeds. This lineage strongly indicates that the Pekalier will also be a very small dog. You can expect an average height of around 8 to 12 inches at the shoulder and a weight typically ranging from 8 to 18 pounds. Their body structure will be compact and sturdy, reflecting the robust build of the Pekingese and the slightly more delicate frame of the Cavalier. Compared to most other companion dogs, even other small breeds, the Pekalier is on the smaller end of the spectrum. This diminutive size makes the Pekalier exceptionally well-suited for apartment living, as they require minimal space to move around comfortably. Their portability also makes them excellent companions for travel, fitting easily into airline carriers and being manageable in various environments. They are an ideal choice for households with space constraints, where a larger dog would be impractical.

I would rate the Pekalier's grooming requirements as a 7/10. This is a moderately high-maintenance breed, leaning towards the higher end due to the combination of its parent breeds. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel contributes a silky, medium-length coat that is prone to matting and shedding, while the Pekingese adds a dense double coat that also sheds considerably and requires diligent brushing to prevent tangles and mats, especially in the undercoat. Both breeds are prone to tear staining, which will require regular cleaning to prevent discoloration and potential skin irritation. The Pekalier is also likely to inherit the Pekingese's characteristic facial folds, which will necessitate daily cleaning and drying to prevent skin fold dermatitis and infections. Furthermore, both parent breeds can be susceptible to ear infections due to their pendulous ears, making routine ear cleaning a must. While not as extreme as some long-haired breeds, the Pekalier will definitely require frequent brushing, likely daily or every other day, along with professional grooming appointments every 6-8 weeks for trims and de-shedding. Their susceptibility to allergies and skin issues, inherited from both parents, can also increase bathing frequency and require specialized shampoos, adding to the grooming burden. Compared to other companion dogs, the Pekalier is not an easy-care breed and demands consistent, hands-on grooming to maintain their coat health, hygiene, and overall well-being.

I would rate the Pekalier's exercise requirements at a 3 out of 10.The Pekalier, inheriting genes from both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, is a breed with generally low to moderate exercise needs, leaning more towards the lower end. Both parent breeds are known for being companion dogs rather than highly active working breeds. Cavaliers enjoy a good walk and some playtime, but are not endurance athletes, while Pekingese are distinctly a low-energy, "lap dog" breed. The brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy inherited from the Pekingese, and potentially present in the Pekalier to varying degrees, significantly limits their tolerance for sustained or strenuous exercise, especially in warm weather, due to respiratory challenges. They are prone to overheating and can experience breathing difficulties. Daily activity for a Pekalier typically involves a couple of short, leisurely walks (15-20 minutes each) and some indoor playtime. They thrive with minimal activity and are generally content with being a couch companion, as long as they receive adequate mental stimulation through toys and interaction. While they appreciate a gentle stroll to explore their surroundings and engage in some light play, they do not require structured, intensive routines to stay healthy or mentally stimulated; excessive exercise would be detrimental to their well-being. Their energy levels are typically low, and they are not suited for activities like long-distance running or agility courses that demand high physical output.

I'd rate the Pekalier's watchdog ability at a 6 out of 10.While neither parent breed is known for being a formidable guardian, the Pekalier would likely lean more towards providing meaningful early warnings rather than being a passive companion. The Pekingese side contributes a surprisingly alert and somewhat territorial nature, often possessing a "big dog" attitude in a small package. They are known for being quite vocal when something is amiss and can be suspicious of strangers. The Cavalier, on the other hand, is generally more mellow and people-oriented, less inclined to bark at every little thing.The Pekalier would probably inherit a good level of alertness, picking up on unusual sounds or approaching visitors. Their barking behavior would likely be a moderate and consistent deterrent, probably not an incessant yap but enough to make you aware. They might display a moderate territorial instinct, particularly within their immediate personal space. While they aren't likely to physically deter an intruder, their persistent barking would certainly serve as an excellent early warning system, making them effective at alerting their owners to potential threats in the home environment. They're more of a "bark alarm" than a "guard dog."

The Pekalier's "Good with Other Dogs" trait would likely rate around a 6-7 out of 10.Pekaliers generally inherit a mixed bag of traits from their parent breeds. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its sweet, gentle disposition and tends to be very sociable and adaptable, usually getting along well with other dogs of various sizes and energy levels. They often enjoy canine company and are less prone to dominance or aggression. However, the Pekingese can be a bit more independent, sometimes assertive, and occasionally possessive, especially if not well-socialized from a young age. While not inherently aggressive, their confidence and sometimes stubborn nature can mean they might not always be instantly welcoming to every dog.Therefore, the Pekalier typically falls in the middle. They are generally *capable* of being good with other dogs, often enjoying canine companionship, particularly if raised with other pets. However, due to the Pekingese influence, they might not be universally enthusiastic about *all* other dogs and might require careful introductions, especially with more boisterous or pushy canines. Early and consistent socialization is crucial for a Pekalier to thrive in a multi-dog household or to be reliably friendly during encounters with unfamiliar dogs. With proper training and socialization, they can coexist peacefully and even form strong bonds, but without it, they might display a more reserved or occasionally assertive attitude towards other dogs.

I would rate the Pekalier's "Energetic" trait at a 3 out of 10.The Pekalier is generally a laid-back companion dog, inheriting a significant portion of its temperament from both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, neither of which are known for high energy levels. They typically enjoy moderate, short bursts of playfulness followed by extended periods of rest and snuggling. Their activity level is more geared towards a leisurely stroll around the block or a gentle game of fetch in the living room rather than intense outdoor adventures.A major contributing factor to this lower energy rating, and a significant limitation on stamina and exercise tolerance, is their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy. Both parent breeds are brachycephalic, and the Pekalier will almost certainly inherit this trait to some degree. This can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather or during strenuous activity, making them prone to overheating and respiratory distress. As such, their endurance is quite limited, and they are not suited for participation in demanding outdoor or athletic activities. While they do need regular, gentle exercise to maintain a healthy weight and mental well-being, their need for physical stimulation is relatively low compared to more active breeds. They are much more content to be a lap dog than a running partner.

I would rate the Pekalier's "Training Requirements" a 6 out of 10.While inheriting some intelligence and a desire to please from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Pekalier also significantly inherits the Pekingese's independent, sometimes stubborn, and rather aloof nature. This combination means training will be a moderate challenge. Their attention span can be on the shorter side, especially when something more interesting (to them) is happening. They are responsive to commands, but only when they feel like it, making consistency absolutely crucial. Positive reinforcement, particularly with high-value treats and praise, is highly effective, but owners must be patient and persistent. This breed is not necessarily beginner-unfriendly, but it will require a committed and consistent owner who understands the need for structured routines and is prepared to work through periods of willful disregard. An experienced owner might find it easier, but a dedicated novice willing to put in the time and effort can also succeed.

I would rate the Pekalier's "Playful" trait a 7 out of 10.The Pekalier, a blend of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, inherits a delightful mix of playfulness. From the Cavalier side, it gains a natural eagerness for interaction, a love for games, and an affectionate, attention-seeking nature. Cavaliers are typically quite spirited and enjoy being involved in their family's activities, including playful romps. The Pekingese influence, while generally more reserved and independent, still contributes a surprising, albeit often self-directed, love for toys and a certain charming stubbornness during playtime. While not as relentlessly energetic as some terrier breeds, Pekaliers are far from inactive. They will respond enthusiastically to squeaky toys, engage in lively rounds of fetch (though perhaps for shorter bursts), and enjoy interactive games with their owners. They possess an endearing enthusiasm in daily life, often greeting you with a wagging tail and an invitation to play, and are generally more spirited than laid-back compared to a purely sedentary companion dog. Their playfulness is a joyful and consistent aspect of their personality, rather than an occasional burst of energy.

I would rate the Pekalier's "Affectionate" trait a 9 out of 10.The Pekalier is bred from two parent breeds known for their loving and devoted natures. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is renowned for its intense desire for human companionship, often described as a "velcro dog" that thrives on being close to its family. They are natural lap warmers and incredibly sensitive to their owners' emotions, eager to please and offer comfort. The Pekingese, while perhaps a touch more independent than the Cavalier, is still deeply loyal and forms strong bonds with its human family. They enjoy physical closeness and are content to be near their people, often expressing their affection through quiet devotion rather than boisterous displays. The Pekalier inherits the best of both worlds, resulting in a dog that is typically extremely loving and people-oriented. They will almost certainly thrive on affection, seeking out physical closeness, enjoying cuddles and lap-sitting, and displaying a strong loyalty to their owners. They are likely to follow family members around the house, preferring to be wherever their people are, and will be highly attuned to the emotions of their human companions. While not entirely devoid of a playful independent streak from the Pekingese side, the overwhelming tendency will be towards a deep desire for human connection and a constant willingness to give and receive love. This breed is definitely one that thrives on affection and is far from independent compared to most other companion dogs.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Pekalier a 7 out of 10.The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent generally brings a very amiable and adaptable nature, often getting along well with other dogs and even cats due to their low prey drive and desire for companionship. The Pekingese, however, can be a bit more independent and possessive. While not inherently aggressive, their confidence and sometimes aloof nature can manifest as resource guarding (especially over food or their favorite resting spots) or a reluctance to share attention if not properly socialized. They also have a slightly more developed "lap dog" mentality and might prefer to be the sole recipient of affection.Therefore, a Pekalier's success in a multi-pet household will largely depend on which parent's temperament is more dominant and, crucially, on early and consistent socialization. If the Cavalier's gentle disposition prevails, they'll likely be quite pet-friendly. If the Pekingese's more assertive side is prominent, they will require training and supervision to manage potential resource guarding and ensure peaceful coexistence, especially with other dogs that might challenge their perceived status. Their prey drive is generally low, making them less of a threat to smaller pets like cats, but their comfort level will still depend on individual personality and early introductions. They are adaptable, but a good introduction process and continued monitoring are recommended to ensure harmony.

The Pekalier rates a 7 out of 10 for "Good with Children." This hybrid generally inherits a charming blend of the Cavalier's gentle and affectionate nature with the Pekingese's more independent and sometimes reserved personality. Pekaliers are typically good-natured and enjoy being part of the family, often exhibiting a playful side, especially when younger. They tend to be patient, particularly with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a small dog. However, their Pekingese lineage can introduce a more sensitive side, making them less tolerant of rough handling or overly boisterous play. While generally affectionate, they may require some supervision with very young children to ensure both the dog and child learn appropriate boundaries. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are beneficial to cultivate their natural gentleness and encourage their compatibility within a bustling family environment, ensuring they thrive rather than just tolerate their pint-sized companions.

The "Good with Strangers" trait of the Pekalier would rate a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a generally friendly and welcoming disposition, but with a degree of initial reservation or a watchful nature inherited from the Pekingese side. Pekaliers typically exhibit a pleasant demeanor around unfamiliar adults, often approaching for a sniff and a gentle greeting once they've assessed the situation. They aren't usually overtly aggressive or highly reserved, but they aren't always immediately effusive like some extremely outgoing breeds. Their Cavalier parentage contributes significantly to their inherent friendliness and desire to be part of the family, extending that warmth to guests. However, the Pekingese influence can manifest as a slight tendency to bark a warning when someone new arrives or a preference to observe from a comfortable distance before engaging fully. They are generally adaptable in public or guest-filled environments, especially if well-socialized from a young age. While naturally inclined to be amiable, consistent positive exposure to various people and situations during puppyhood is beneficial to ensure they consistently lean towards the sociable end of their spectrum rather than becoming overly cautious.

I would rate the Pekalier's winter tolerance at a 3.The Pekalier inherits several traits that make it quite sensitive to cold. Both parent breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, are small dogs with relatively thin coats compared to breeds built for harsh winters. While the Pekingese has a thicker double coat than the Cavalier, it's not dense enough to provide significant insulation against true cold. Their small size means they have a higher surface area to volume ratio, leading to faster heat loss and an increased risk of hypothermia. Furthermore, the Pekalier is likely to inherit some degree of brachycephaly (a shortened snout) from the Pekingese. This can make breathing more difficult in cold, dry air, as their respiratory system is less efficient at warming and humidifying inhaled air, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues and reducing their ability to regulate body temperature during exertion. They have limited body fat for insulation. Due to these factors, Pekaliers require significant special care during winter months compared to many other companion dogs. Short outings for potty breaks should be the norm in cold weather, and they will absolutely need protective clothing like sweaters or coats, especially if temperatures drop below freezing. Extended outdoor activity in cold climates is not recommended and could be dangerous for their health.

Rating: 2Explanation: The Pekalier, inheriting the brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy of both parent breeds – the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and especially the Pekingese – possesses extremely limited heat tolerance. Their shortened airways significantly impair their ability to pant efficiently, which is a dog's primary mechanism for regulating body temperature. This physiological constraint makes them highly susceptible to overheating and heatstroke, even in moderately warm temperatures. They are at a much higher risk than most other companion dogs, requiring constant vigilance and proactive measures during summer months. Outdoor activity should be severely restricted to very early mornings or late evenings on cooler days, and even then, only for short durations. During hot weather, they necessitate a climate-controlled environment, ideally air-conditioned, and should never be left unsupervised outdoors or in a car, even for a few minutes. They require special care in summer, far beyond what's needed for other dogs, to prevent potentially fatal heat-related illnesses.

I'd rate the Pekalier's "Healthiness" trait a 4 out of 10.While crossing two breeds *can* sometimes reduce the incidence of single-breed specific issues due to hybrid vigor, both parent breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Pekingese, are unfortunately notorious for a multitude of significant health problems, making the Pekalier highly susceptible to a combination of these. Cavaliers are prone to heartbreaking conditions like syringomyelia, heart disease (Mitral Valve Disease), patellar luxation, and eye conditions. Pekingese are famous for severe brachycephalic airway syndrome, leading to significant breathing difficulties, along with eye proptosis, intervertebral disc disease, and various skin fold dermatitis issues. The Pekalier is almost guaranteed to inherit some degree of brachycephaly, meaning breathing problems are a strong likelihood, and the potential for spinal, heart, and joint issues remains high. Life expectancy can be compromised by these conditions, and while responsible breeding can mitigate some risks through health screening, the sheer volume of inherited predispositions in both parent lines makes achieving consistently robust health a significant challenge. This breed is definitely considered high-maintenance from a health perspective, often requiring careful monitoring, specialized care, and potentially costly veterinary interventions throughout its life, rather than being generally robust.

I would rate the Pekalier's "Protective" trait at a 3 out of 10.While the Pekalier will undoubtedly be loyal to its owners and might bark at unfamiliar sounds or sights due to its Pekingese lineage, it's primarily a companion dog. Its small size, gentle nature inherited from the Cavalier, and general inclination towards affection over aggression mean it's highly unlikely to offer any meaningful protection in a household setting. They might be alert and announce a stranger's presence with barks, making them a "doorbell" rather than a deterrent. Their reaction to strangers is more likely to be curiosity, a bit of shyness, or even an eagerness for attention, rather than a display of protective aggression. They lack the physical stature, innate courage, and territorial instincts necessary to be considered even a mediocre guard dog. They are bred for companionship and lap-warming, not for safeguarding property or people.

I would rate the Pekalier's "Life Span" trait a 6 out of 10.The Pekalier is considered an average-lived breed compared to other companion dogs. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels typically live 10-14 years, while Pekingese have a slightly longer average of 12-15 years. This hybrid usually falls within a similar range, often around 10-14 years. While neither parent breed is exceptionally long-lived, they aren't inherently short-lived either. Common health issues like heart conditions (especially mitral valve disease from the Cavalier side) and respiratory problems (due to the brachycephalic Pekingese influence) can impact longevity. Patellar luxation and eye conditions are also potential concerns. Responsible breeding, including genetic health testing of parents to reduce inherited predispositions, and excellent care (proper diet, exercise, and veterinary check-ups) can help maximize their lifespan, but the combined genetic risks prevent a higher rating.