The Peekapoo, a delightful mix between a Pekingese dog and a Toy Poodle, is a popular designer dog breed known for its affectionate nature and hypoallergenic coat. These small, intelligent dogs make excellent companions, particularly suited to families with older children, seniors, or those living in smaller spaces such as apartments.
Breed Facts
- Country of Origin: United States
- Breed Group: Hybrid (Pekingese x Poodle)
- Height: 6-11 inches
- Weight: 4-20 pounds, depending on the size of the Poodle parent
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Average Price: $600-$1,200
- Hypoallergenic: Yes (often, depending on the coat type inherited)
- Shedding: Low to moderate, depending on coat type
- Good with Kids: Yes, best with older children due to their small size
Peekapoo History
The Peekapoo is one of the oldest designer breeds, developed in the United States during the 1950s to create a small, low-shedding family pet that could be suitable for allergy sufferers. By crossing the Pekingese with a Miniature or Toy Poodle, breeders aimed to combine the intelligence and hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle with the loyalty and compact size of the Pekingese. This breed has gained popularity due to its loving disposition and reduced shedding coat.
Peekapoo Personality
Peekapoos are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They often form strong bonds with their family members and can be very protective. Despite their small size, they have a lively and playful attitude, mixed with a good dose of Poodle intelligence. They can be somewhat reserved with strangers and may require socialization to prevent them from becoming overly timid or nervous.
Appearance
Peekapoos vary significantly in appearance depending on the traits inherited from their parent breeds. Generally, they have a compact body with facial features resembling the Pekingese, including a flat face and large, expressive eyes, combined with the curly or wavy coat of the Poodle. Their coat comes in various colors, such as black, white, gray, brown, or a mix.
Peekapoo Health Concerns
Peekapoos are generally healthy, but they can inherit health issues common to their parent breeds, such as:
- Respiratory issues due to the brachycephalic nature of the Pekingese.
- Dental problems, common in small breeds.
- Luxating patellas, where the knee joints slip out of place.
- Eye conditions such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help manage these potential health concerns.
Exercise Needs
Despite their small size, Peekapoos have a moderate energy level. They require daily walks and playtime to keep them healthy and prevent boredom. They are well-suited to indoor activities and interactive games that stimulate their mind and strengthen their bond with family members.
Training and Behavior
Peekapoos are smart and can be easy to train, but they may inherit the Pekingese’s stubbornness, making consistency and patience key in their training. Early socialization and positive reinforcement techniques work best for this breed, encouraging a well-rounded and obedient temperament.
Grooming Needs
The grooming needs of a Peekapoo depend largely on the type of coat they inherit. Those with more Poodle-like coats require regular brushing to prevent matting, as well as professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Regardless of coat type, all Peekapoos will benefit from regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care.
Care Needs
Peekapoos thrive on human interaction and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They are best suited for families where someone is home most of the day. They also prefer a calm environment and can be sensitive to loud noises and hectic situations.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
- Are Peekapoos good for first-time dog owners?
- Yes, their friendly nature and manageable size make them great for first-time owners, but be prepared for the grooming and health care they require.
- Can Peekapoos live in apartments?
- Absolutely, their small size and moderate exercise needs make them ideal for apartment living.
- How often should I groom my Peekapoo?
- They should be brushed several times a week, with professional grooming every month or two, depending on their coat.
- Do Peekapoos get along with other pets?
- Generally, yes, especially if raised with them from puppyhood or properly socialized.
- What is the best way to train a Peekapoo?
- Positive reinforcement methods like treats and praises are effective, along with consistent, gentle training sessions.
Is This the Right Breed for You?
If you’re looking for a small, affectionate dog that can adapt well to various living situations and may be suitable for allergy sufferers, the Peekapoo could be a great choice. Their need for moderate exercise and high grooming needs should be considered, but their loving nature and intelligence make them delightful companions.
Further Reading
- DogTime: Peekapoo
- Offers a complete guide on the breed, including detailed care, personality, and health information.
- PetGuide: Peekapoo
- Provides insights into training, diet, and exercise needs specific to Peekapoos.
- The Spruce Pets
- A general resource for pet owners offering tips on grooming, health care, and daily care for various breeds including the Peekapoo.
Thank you for considering our breed profiles as you explore the possibility of adding a Peekapoo to your home. Explore other breed profiles on our Small Dog Breeds A to Z home page for more insights into different breeds!