All about Pekehound dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Pekehound" Breed

The average Pekehound weight typically ranges from 15 to 30 pounds. Adult Pekehound average size can vary, with males often being slightly heavier and larger than females, though individual differences are common. This makes for a healthy, compact companion.

Wondering about the Pekehound height? You're in the right place! As a delightful cross between the Basset Hound and the Pekingese, the Pekehound's average size can vary, but we can give you a good idea of what to expect.

The Pekehound breed, a charming mix of Basset Hound and Pekingese, exhibits a diverse range of Pekehound colors. While there's no official kennel club recognition for designer breeds like the Pekehound, their coat colors generally reflect those found in their parent breeds.Common and widely accepted Pekehound colors include black and tan, tricolor (black, tan, and white), lemon and white, red and white, sable, fawn, cream, and white. These variations are often seen and are highly sought after.For those interested in rare Pekehound colors and exotic Pekehound variations, you might occasionally find unique coats like brindle, chocolate, or even blue (a dilute black). It's important to note that these rarer colors, especially dilutes, may not be explicitly bred for and can carry different genetic considerations. While no AKC recognized Pekehound colors exist due to the breed's hybrid status, the colors inherited are typically standard in Basset Hounds and Pekingese. Pricing for Pekehounds can vary based on factors like lineage, health, and especially the desirability of specific coat types and colors, with rarer variations sometimes commanding a higher price.

Pekehound Personality & TemperamentThe Pekehound, a charming blend of the Basset Hound and Pekingese, generally inherits a delightful and unique disposition. Expect a friendly and loyal companion, often deeply devoted to their family. They tend to be sociable with known individuals and can be quite affectionate, enjoying snuggles and being part of the action.Regarding adaptability to apartment living, Pekehounds can do well due to their moderate size and often lower energy levels compared to larger breeds, especially if regular walks and mental stimulation are provided. They are generally adaptable but will appreciate a cozy spot to call their own.When it comes to behavior with children, early socialization is key. With proper introduction and supervision, many Pekehounds can be good family pets, though their Basset heritage might make them more tolerant of gentle play than boisterous roughhousing. Similarly, their behavior with other pets can be positive with careful introductions. They may have a playful side, but their hunting instincts (from the Basset) are typically not overly strong towards household pets, though individual variation exists. Their independent streak, sometimes inherited from the Pekingese, means they appreciate their own space but are not typically solitary. Overall, the Pekehound temperament is often described as amiable, affectionate, and a wonderful addition to many homes.

Pekehound Temperament & Personality TraitsThe Pekehound is a delightful companion dog with a unique blend of traits from its Basset Hound and Pekingese parents. Expect a friendly and generally sociable canine, often forming deep bonds of loyalty with its family. They are known for their affectionate nature and enjoy being close to their humans.This breed typically exhibits good adaptability to apartment living, provided they receive regular, moderate exercise. While not overly demanding in terms of activity, daily walks are essential to keep them happy and healthy.Regarding behavior with children, Pekehounds can be good family pets, especially with older, respectful children who understand how to interact gently with a dog. Supervision is always recommended, as with any breed. Their behavior with other pets is often good, particularly if introduced properly and socialized from a young age.Pekehounds can display a charming degree of stubbornness, a common trait inherited from both parent breeds. Consistent, positive reinforcement training is key to managing this. They can also be somewhat sensitive, preferring a calm and stable home environment. Their vocal tendencies can vary; some may be prone to barking, particularly if they inherit the Basset Hound's bay. Overall, the Pekehound offers a loving and devoted temperament for those seeking a unique and affectionate companion.

Pekehound Care: Daily Maintenance & Health TipsCaring for a Pekehound involves attention to its unique needs, blending traits from its Basset Hound and Pekingese parents. This low-energy dog breed requires moderate daily maintenance.Grooming Needs: Expect regular grooming for your Pekehound care. Their coat, which can vary from the Basset’s short and dense to the Pekingese’s long and flowing, typically requires brushing several times a week to prevent mats and reduce shedding. Bathe as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo.Exercise Limitations: Pekehounds are generally low-energy dog breeds and have moderate exercise requirements. Short, daily walks (20-30 minutes) are usually sufficient to keep them healthy and prevent weight gain. Avoid strenuous activity, especially in warm weather, due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Due to their predisposition to weight gain, portion control is crucial for Pekehound care. Consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations and to establish a healthy feeding schedule.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: Both parent breeds are prone to wrinkles and ear issues. Daily cleaning of facial folds is essential to prevent skin infections and irritation. Their long, floppy ears require regular checking and cleaning to prevent wax buildup and ear infections.Climate Sensitivity: Due to their brachycephalic features, Pekehounds are highly sensitive to extreme temperatures. They can overheat quickly in hot, humid weather and may struggle in very cold conditions. Keep them indoors during extreme weather and ensure they have a cool, comfortable environment.Common Health Concerns: Be aware of potential health issues. Pekehound care includes regular veterinary check-ups to monitor for skin issues (e.g., dermatitis in wrinkles), dental problems (prone to overcrowding), and weight management to prevent joint strain. Brachycephalic airway syndrome, luxating patella, and eye conditions are also possibilities. Regular dental care, including brushing, is paramount for their oral health.How to care for a Pekehound involves a proactive approach to their grooming, exercise, diet, and health. Consistent care will ensure your Pekehound leads a happy, healthy life.

Pekehound Activity Level: A Balanced Approach to ExerciseThe Pekehound, a delightful cross between the Basset Hound and Pekingese, generally exhibits a low to moderate activity level. They are not high-energy dogs, making them an excellent fit for low-energy households or individuals seeking a more relaxed companion.Pekehounds typically enjoy short bursts of energy followed by extended periods of rest. You'll often find them happily engaging in a quick play session before settling down for a long, comfortable nap. Their daily exercise needs are relatively minimal, consisting of one to two short, leisurely walks per day, totaling around 20-30 minutes. These walks are crucial for mental stimulation, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing an opportunity for potty breaks.When it comes to playtime preferences, Pekehounds often enjoy gentle games that don't require extensive running or jumping. Think soft toy retrieves, puzzle toys, or simply cuddling on the couch. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy from their Pekingese lineage is a significant consideration. This can make them prone to overheating and respiratory difficulties, especially in warm weather or during strenuous activity. Therefore, it's vital to keep walks short, avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day, and always ensure access to fresh water and shade. Over-exertion should be strictly avoided.While Pekehounds can appreciate a good romp, they are not suitable for highly active families looking for a running or hiking partner. Instead, they thrive in environments where their balanced approach to activity – short bursts of fun followed by ample rest – is understood and accommodated. If you're wondering how active are Pekehound, the answer is "moderately active, with a strong preference for comfort and companionship."

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Pekehound a 3.The Pekehound is a deliberate mix of the Basset Hound and the Pekingese, two breeds with distinctly different size profiles. The Pekingese is a true toy breed, often weighing less than 14 pounds, while the Basset Hound, though not a giant, is a significantly more substantial medium-sized dog, known for its heavy bone structure and weighing between 40-65 pounds. The Pekehound typically lands on the smaller end of this spectrum, often resembling a longer-bodied, slightly sturdier Pekingese or a miniature Basset Hound. They are generally compact dogs, often weighing in the 15-30 pound range, and their height is moderate, not exceeding the knees of an average adult. Their body structure tends to be more elongated than stocky, inheriting some of the Basset's low-slung frame but without the full bulk. This makes them well-suited for apartment living and travel, as they are easily transportable and don't require vast amounts of space. Their moderate size means they can comfortable curl up on a lap or fit into a carrier, making them ideal companions for those with space constraints.

I would rate the grooming requirements of a Pekehound a 7 out of 10. While not as demanding as some long-haired breeds, they are certainly not low-maintenance. The Basset Hound parentage often brings a propensity for loose skin and wrinkles, particularly around the face and neck, which can trap moisture and debris, requiring regular cleaning to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Their ears, inherited from both parents, are typically long and pendulous, limiting air circulation and necessitating frequent cleaning to prevent ear infections. Shedding will be moderate to high, as both parent breeds are known for shedding. The coat itself can vary, potentially being a mix of the Basset's dense, short coat and the Pekingese's longer, thicker double coat, which may require regular brushing to prevent matting and manage shedding. Nail trimming is essential, as with any dog, but their generally lower energy levels might mean nails wear down less naturally. Bathing will be a regular necessity, not just for cleanliness but also for skin health, given the potential for skin issues in wrinkled breeds. Overall, a Pekehound will require consistent and attentive grooming, including daily or every-other-day brushing, regular ear and skin fold cleaning, and routine professional or thorough home bathing and nail care, making them more demanding than many other companion dogs.

I would rate the Pekehound's exercise requirements as a 3 out of 10.This rating reflects the likely low-to-moderate energy levels inherited from both parent breeds, with a strong lean towards minimal activity. Basset Hounds are known for their calm, laid-back demeanor and moderate exercise needs, often content with a leisurely walk and some sniffing. Pekingese, on the other hand, are distinctly low-energy and primarily indoor companions, limited by their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy. The Pekehound will almost certainly inherit some degree of brachycephaly, which significantly restricts their ability to tolerate sustained movement, especially in warm weather, due to potential respiratory distress. While they will enjoy short, gentle walks and brief play sessions, they are not built for endurance or high-impact activities like agility. Their ideal exercise routine would consist of a couple of short, relaxed walks each day, perhaps a total of 30-45 minutes, combined with some indoor playtime or mental stimulation. They thrive with minimal activity and are generally content to lounge, making them unsuitable for active families seeking a jogging or hiking companion. Structured routines beyond basic daily walks are generally unnecessary, as their physical limitations and inherent low energy mean they are easily over-exercised.

I'd rate the Pekehound's "Watchdog Ability" at a 6 out of 10.While not a breed designed for intense protection, the Pekehound likely inherits a decent level of alertness from both parent breeds, leaning more into the "early warning" category than an actual deterrent. The Basset Hound, despite its laid-back demeanor, possesses a surprisingly loud and distinctive bay, often used to announce anything unusual. The Pekingese is known for its bold and sometimes feisty personality, and a tendency to bark at perceived threats or strangers. This combination suggests a dog that will be quite vocal and responsive to unfamiliar sounds or people entering their territory. They are likely to bark to alert their owners, making them effective at providing meaningful early warnings in a home environment. However, their small to medium size and a generally friendly disposition (inherent in many crossbreeds designed for companionship) would probably mean they wouldn't be effective at physically deterring a determined intruder, making them more of a passive companion that excels at sounding the alarm rather than actively confronting.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Pekehound a 6 out of 10.The Pekehound inherits traits from both the Basset Hound and the Pekingese, leading to a moderately dog-friendly disposition that requires careful management and socialization. The Basset Hound generally possesses a gentle and tolerant nature, often getting along well with other dogs, including those of different sizes and energy levels, due to their laid-back temperament. However, the Pekingese can be more assertive and possessive, sometimes exhibiting a "big dog in a little body" syndrome, which can lead to bossiness or a reluctance to share resources with other canines.Therefore, while a Pekehound is unlikely to be inherently aggressive, its compatibility with other dogs will heavily depend on the individual's personality, early socialization, and the specific dog it's interacting with. They are generally adaptable to multi-dog households if introduced carefully and if their owners understand their potential for a dominant streak from the Pekingese side. They may thrive in canine company, especially with dogs that respect their space, but they will likely require careful introductions and ongoing training to ensure peaceful coexistence, particularly with unfamiliar dogs or those with very high energy levels that might overwhelm their more sedate nature. Owners should be prepared to supervise interactions and manage any potential resource guarding or bossiness that might emerge.

Rating: 4Explanation: The Pekehound, a mix of the Basset Hound and Pekingese, generally inherits a more laid-back disposition from both parent breeds. While they enjoy playtime and can have bursts of enthusiasm, their typical activity level is moderate at best. The Basset Hound contributes a love for sniffing and short bursts of activity, but is ultimately a low-energy dog. The Pekingese is even more of a couch potato, often content with short strolls and indoor play.The brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy inherited from the Pekingese is a significant factor in limiting their stamina and exercise tolerance. This respiratory compromise means Pekehounds are prone to overheating and difficulty breathing during strenuous activity, making them ill-suited for long walks, jogging, or intense athletic pursuits. They much prefer a comfortable spot on the sofa to an arduous hike. Their need for physical stimulation is relatively low, satisfied by short, daily walks and engaging indoor play sessions. They are playful, but their play is typically less intense and of shorter duration compared to more active companion breeds.

I'd rate the Pekehound's "Training Requirements" a 7 out of 10. This breed is not particularly beginner-friendly and often requires experienced handling and structured routines. While they possess a degree of intelligence inherited from both parents, the Pekingese influence often brings a significant stubborn streak and independent nature, which can manifest as a short attention span for repetitive tasks. Basset Hounds, while generally amiable, can also be quite single-minded, especially when following a scent, making them less inclined to immediate obedience if something more interesting captures their attention. Responsiveness to commands can be inconsistent; they're not overtly rebellious, but they will frequently weigh whether compliance is worth their effort or if there's an alternative they'd prefer. A strong need for consistency is paramount, as any slack in training will be quickly exploited. Positive reinforcement is effective, but it needs to be high-value and delivered with enthusiasm and patience to overcome their inherent "what's in it for me?" attitude. Expect training to be an ongoing process that requires creativity and a good sense of humor, rather than a quick fix.

I'd rate the Pekehound's "Playful" trait a 6 out of 10.While not an extreme energy breed, the Pekehound inherits a delightful blend that leans more towards spirited than completely laid-back. The Pekingese often contributes a surprisingly feisty and attention-seeking streak, with a love for being the center of attention and engaging in short bursts of playful antics. They can be quite amusing with their "zoomies" and enthusiastic, if brief, wrestling with toys. The Basset Hound, on the other hand, is a more relaxed and independent breed, but even they enjoy a good sniffy game or a leisurely stroll, and can be quite charmingly goofy when they do decide to play.Therefore, the Pekehound typically enjoys playtime, especially interactive games with their owner, and will show enthusiasm for toys and engaging in short bursts of activity. They are generally good-natured and enjoy being involved in family life, often seeking out attention through playful nudges or funny expressions. However, their activity level isn't constant; they are equally content to cuddle on the couch or explore scents in the yard at a slower pace. They're more naturally spirited than a true couch potato, but not as relentlessly energetic as some high-drive companion dogs.

I'd rate the Pekehound's "Affectionate" trait a solid 8 out of 10.The Pekehound, drawing from both the Basset Hound's easygoing nature and the Pekingese's desire for being adored, is generally a deeply loving companion. They have a strong desire for human companionship and will readily seek out physical closeness, often enjoying cuddling and lap-sitting. Their loyalty to their family is quite pronounced, and they tend to be sensitive to owner emotions, often offering comfort or seeking attention when they sense a shift. Expect them to follow family members around the house, preferring to be in the same room. While they possess a certain independent streak inherited from the Pekingese, especially regarding personal space when they've had enough, they ultimately thrive on affection and are far from emotionally distant, consistently seeking out their human's presence.

I'd rate the Pekehound's "Good with Other Pets" trait a 6 out of 10.The Pekehound inherits a mixed bag of traits from its parent breeds. The Basset Hound generally possesses a laid-back and tolerant nature, often getting along well with other animals, including cats, if properly introduced. Their prey drive, while present for small game, is often manageable in a home setting. On the other hand, the Pekingese can be more independent, sometimes displaying a possessive or "only dog" mentality, and might have a lower tolerance for boisterous play from other animals. Their small size could also make them feel vulnerable around larger, more energetic pets.Therefore, a Pekehound's compatibility with other pets will largely depend on which parent's temperament is more dominant and, crucially, on early and consistent socialization. They are not *naturally* extremely sociable in the way some breeds are, and without proper training and supervision, resource guarding (especially food or preferred resting spots) could emerge due to the Pekingese influence. With patient introductions, consistent positive reinforcement, and a clear hierarchy established by the owner, a Pekehound can coexist peacefully in a multi-pet household. However, a household with very active, high-prey-drive breeds, or very dominant pets, might require more careful management.

Rating the "Good with Children" trait of the Pekehound (Basset Hound × Pekingese): 6/10The Pekehound earns a moderate rating due to the contrasting influences of its parent breeds. The Basset Hound contributes a generally patient and good-natured demeanor, often tolerant of typical child antics, and can be quite affectionate. This side of the Pekehound is likely to be gentle and relatively calm, which is beneficial around children. However, the Pekingese heritage introduces a more complex dynamic. Pekingese can be quite independent, sometimes a bit stubborn, and are known for their strong personalities. While they can be very devoted to their families, they may have a lower tolerance for rough handling, excessive noise, or being constantly pestered, which can be common with younger children. They might also prefer a quieter environment and be less inclined towards boisterous play. Therefore, while a Pekehound can certainly thrive in a family with children, especially older, more respectful ones, it will likely require significant supervision and training. Children will need to be taught how to interact gently and respectfully with the dog, and the Pekehound will benefit from early socialization to various sounds and handling experiences. It's not a breed that is universally and naturally child-proof, and patience from both the dog and the family is key to a successful co-existence.

The Pekehound, a mix of Basset Hound and Pekingese, would likely rate a 6 out of 10 for "Good with Strangers." This rating reflects a generally neutral to mildly friendly disposition that can lean either way depending on the individual dog and early socialization.The Basset Hound side contributes a naturally gentle and somewhat placid temperament. They are not typically aggressive or prone to guarding, and while they might be a bit reserved initially, they usually warm up to people once they've assessed the situation. However, they aren't exuberantly friendly with every new face. The Pekingese influence, on the other hand, can introduce a more independent and sometimes wary streak. Pekingese are known for their strong loyalty to their family and can be more reserved or even aloof with strangers, sometimes barking to alert their owners of an unfamiliar presence.Therefore, a Pekehound will likely not be a dog that immediately rushes up to greet every stranger with tail wags and kisses. They'll probably observe from a distance, and with proper socialization from a young age, they can become quite comfortable and polite in the presence of unfamiliar adults. Without that early exposure, however, the Pekingese's wariness might become more pronounced, leading to more barking or a tendency to stick closer to their owner. They are adaptable in public to a degree, generally not causing a fuss, but they might not actively seek out interaction with new people in guest-filled environments. While not inherently unfriendly, they generally require consistent, positive exposure to strangers to be truly at ease rather than being naturally outgoing.

I would rate the Pekehound's winter tolerance at a 4.The Pekehound, being a cross between a Basset Hound and a Pekingese, inherits a mix of traits that generally lean towards moderate to low cold tolerance. The Basset Hound, while having a dense coat, is a low-slung dog with relatively little body fat, making it susceptible to cold ground. The Pekingese, on the other hand, is known for its long, thick double coat, which offers good insulation, but its small size and brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy are significant drawbacks in cold weather.Combining these, the Pekehound likely has a medium-length to dense coat, offering some protection. However, its potentially small to medium size means a higher surface area to volume ratio, leading to faster heat loss. The most critical factor is the likely inheritance of some degree of brachycephaly from the Pekingese. Brachycephalic dogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature, especially in extreme heat or cold, as their shortened airways make it harder to warm inhaled air. This significantly increases their risk of respiratory issues and hypothermia in cold conditions. Their shorter legs (from the Basset) also mean they're closer to the cold ground.Compared to other companion dogs, Pekehounds would definitely require special care during winter months. They are not built for prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures. They would benefit from warm coats or sweaters for outdoor excursions, and their time outside should be limited, especially in freezing or sub-freezing conditions. Owners should be vigilant for signs of discomfort or hypothermia, such as shivering, lethargy, or shallow breathing. Their brachycephalic nature makes strenuous activity in the cold risky, as it can exacerbate breathing difficulties. While they might enjoy a quick romp in fresh snow, extended play or long walks in frigid climates would not be advisable without significant protection and careful monitoring.

Rating: 3The Pekehound, a mix of the Basset Hound and Pekingese, would likely have very poor heat tolerance, earning a rating of 3. This low rating is primarily driven by the strong influence of the brachycephalic Pekingese, a breed notoriously sensitive to heat due to its shortened snout and compromised ability to cool itself through panting. While the Basset Hound, with its longer muzzle, might offer a slight mitigating factor, the combined genetics would still likely result in an airway structure that makes efficient heat exchange challenging. The Pekehound would be at a significant risk of heatstroke, even with moderate exercise, and would struggle to regulate its body temperature in warm environments.Compared to other companion dogs, the Pekehound would absolutely require special care during summer months. Even seemingly mild summer days could pose a danger. Owners would need to be extremely vigilant, ensuring the dog is kept in air-conditioned environments for most of the day, limiting outdoor activities to the coolest parts of the early morning or late evening, and avoiding direct sun exposure. Short, leashed potty breaks would be the extent of their outdoor activity during peak summer heat. Access to plenty of fresh water and cooling mats or vests would be essential, and owners should be educated on the early signs of heatstroke. This breed would not be suitable for active outdoor lifestyles in warmer climates and would always require climate control during hot weather to ensure its safety and well-being.

I'd rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Pekehound a 6 out of 10.While not exceptionally robust, the Pekehound generally falls into the moderate health range, avoiding some of the more severe issues seen in highly specialized breeds. The Basset Hound parent brings potential for joint problems like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and elbow dysplasia, as well as ear infections due to their long, pendulous ears. The Pekingese side introduces concerns about brachycephalic airway syndrome (breathing difficulties), eye problems such as cherry eye and progressive retinal atrophy, and patellar luxation. Responsible breeding can significantly mitigate these risks, with breeders screening for common orthopedic and eye conditions. Their life expectancy is respectable, typically ranging from 10 to 14 years. Preventive care, including weight management to avoid stressing their joints and diligent ear cleaning, is important. They aren't generally considered high-maintenance in terms of health, but owners do need to be aware of the potential for these inherited conditions and provide consistent care to ensure their well-being.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of the Pekehound at a 6.The Pekehound, drawing from its Basset Hound and Pekingese lineage, is more inclined towards being an alert and vocal companion than a formidable protector. Their Pekingese heritage contributes to a certain watchfulness and a propensity to bark at perceived intruders or changes in their environment, making them excellent little alarm systems. They will be fiercely loyal to their owners and likely wary of strangers entering their territory. However, their Basset Hound side, while contributing to their charming demeanor, doesn't bring much in the way of physical deterrence or aggressive protective instincts. They are unlikely to pose a significant physical threat to an intruder and are more prone to warning you of an issue rather than engaging in direct protection. Therefore, while they are excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and vocal nature, they are primarily companion dogs and not suitable as a true guard dog offering meaningful physical protection in a household setting.

I'd rate the "Life Span" trait of the Pekehound a 6 out of 10. This places them in the average to slightly above-average category for companion dogs. Pekehounds typically live between 10 to 14 years. While the Basset Hound parent often has a slightly shorter lifespan due to its larger size and potential for orthopedic issues, the Pekingese contributes to a more robust and longer-lived genetic background. However, Pekehounds can still inherit some health concerns from both parents, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease (due to the elongated spine from both breeds), and respiratory issues (especially if the Pekingese's brachycephalic features are more dominant). Responsible breeding practices that screen for these conditions and proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary check-ups, significantly contribute to maximizing their lifespan. They aren't exceptionally long-lived, but they're certainly not short-lived either.