The Peekapoo: Two Cute Breeds Mix to Create One Adorable Hybrid

The Peekapoo is an adorable mix of a Pekingnese and a Miniature or Toy Poodle. Peekapoos are usually first generational-crosses, meaning each parent is a purebred, as breeders feel that mixing two Peekapoos could result in health-related issues.

Let’s “dig” into the wonderful world of the Peekapoo to learn more about this delightful cross-breed.

Peekapoo History

The Peekapoo has a fairly long history that started back in the 1950s and 1960s - it was one of the first poodle crosses. Although it hasn’t gained as much popularity and notoriety as some of the newer poodle-mixes (Labradoodle, or Cockapoo) its longevity may be partially because Peekapoo breeders are not trying to get this hybrid to purebred status.

Peekapoos don’t have any clubs or organizations and breeders are content to keep it the adorable cross-breed it has been for decades.

What Does a Peekapoo Look Like?

Because the Peekapoo is a hybrid its size can vary from 3 to 20 pounds and up to 11 inches at the shoulder. It has a good mix of both the Pekingnese and the Poodle with dark eyes, floppy ears, and a muzzle that can vary from more to less brachycephalic (depending on which parent’s gene is dominant).

Peekapoo Coat

This hybrid does not have an undercoat and is soft and cottony to the touch. It can be wavy and medium to long. The Peekapoo was originally bred to be hypoallergenic and low-shedding, but these desired qualities will vary depending on the “genetic roll of the dice.”

Again, depending on the parents, individual Peekapoos can range in color from white, sable, red, silver, gray, apricot, chocolate, buff and black. They can also have a variety of markings including black with tan.

The Temperament of the Peekapoo

The Peekapoo was bred to be a companion dog and therefore enjoys spending time with its pet parent. This hybrid is loyal and devoted, gentle and rarely combative or aggressive. However, that doesn’t mean it won’t defend its family with everything it’s got - it can be a great watchdog as it will bark at strangers or when someone is at the door.

The Peekapoo is an intelligent dog and loves being outside learning new tricks, playing fetch or taking a nature hike or romp around the doggie park.

A downside of the Peekapoo personality can be its innate wariness of strangers and “unknown” canines. However, early and ongoing socialization can help rectify this trait.

Watch these Peekapoo puppies playing;

Health Concerns

The Peekapoo may be prone to the same health issues as its parents. Be sure to ask whether the Peekapoo you are interested in is first-generation or multigenerational, as there can be more health concerns with Peekapoos bred to Peekapoos.

Hip Dysplasia - the thigh bone does not fit properly into the hip socket.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease - the head of the femur losses blood supply, which can cause a degeneration of the pelvis bone area.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - a degenerative eye disease that leads to blindness.
Slipped Stifles - the knee joint slides in and out of place. This usually occurs in the hind legs.

Lifespan

Although the above list of health concerns may affect some Peekapoos, they are a relatively healthy hybrid. Pet parents will be happy to know this adorable breed’s lifespan is from 10 to 15 years-old. However, that may not seem like long enough to devoted Peekapoo pet parents.

peekapoo puppy — Photo by timandheike / flickr

Peekapoo Maintenance

Even though the Peekapoo is a small hybrid, it does need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, as well as mentally stimulated. However, if your Peekapoo has a “pushed-in” snout (like the Pekingnese) you will not want to over exercise your dog, especially on very hot days, as this can lead to respiratory distress and even death.

Never use harsh punishments with your Peekapoo, but rather train with positive reinforcement techniques.

The Peekapoo can adapt to any living situation, but a fenced-in backyard is optimal for both safety and exercise.

All dogs, including Peekapoos, can benefit from crate training when done properly. Never use a crate to confine your dog for long periods, or as a punishment.

Food & Water

Depending on the size of your Peekapoo, this hybrid will eat 1/4 to ¾ cups of dry kibble each day, divided into two smaller meals. It’s recommended to feed a high-quality food that uses real protein as the first ingredient and is supplemented with fresh fruits, and veggies.

Note: this is only a general guideline. Very active dogs and growing puppies will need a higher caloric intake to be healthy.

Of course, fresh water should be available at all times, and limit the amount of people-food your dog is allowed, as this can cause pickiness and weight issues.

Exercise

It is recommended to provide your Peekapoo with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. This could include walking, hiking, playing in the park, throwing a disk or ball, or enrolling your dog in obedience training.

Grooming

The amount of grooming your Peekapoo requires depends largely on its coat - coats kept short will need to be brushed two to three times a week, while long coats will require daily maintenance.

If your Peekapoo has deep facial wrinkles, these will need to be kept clean and free of debris. Watch for hair poking into your Peekapoo’s eyes, as this can cause redness and irritation, as well as infection if left unattended.

Check your Peekapoos ears for any redness, discharge, debris, or bad odor, as these can be signs of an infection. To maintain your dog’s ear health, use an ear cleanser specifically made for dogs and clean (according to instructions) once a week.

If your dog doesn’t wear its nails down naturally, you will want to trim them every few weeks, or have a professional groomer complete the task for you.

Lastly, brush your Peekapoos teeth often (at least three times a week) and provide your pet with dental chews, hard bones, and rubber dental toys to help reduce tartar and plaque buildup.

Conclusion

If you think a Peekapoo is the perfect pooch for you, be sure to research out a reputable breeder or a rescue organization to adopt one from. These designer dogs are an adorable mix of both the Pekingnese and the Poodle and will make a loving, devoted, and playful companion to both children and adults.