Peekapoo Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Peekapoo?

The Peekapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds in the world. This breed was developed in the 1950s - long before the term "designer dogs" was even coined! Their long history and continued desirability mean that these dogs are well-loved and will continue to be adored by all for many years to come.

The Peekapoo was bred by crossing a Pekingese with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. The reason for this crossing was to create a hypoallergenic, small companion. Originally bred in China, this small dog has since spread across the globe.

Although not recognised by the American Kennel Club as it is a mixed breed, the Peekapoo is already recognised by the following notable clubs:

• Designer Dogs Kennel Club

• International Designer Canine Registry

• American Canine Hybrid Club

• Designer Breed Registry

• Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Who are Peekapoo dogs best for?

A Peekapoo is a great canine companion for almost everyone: they are great with children, elders and singletons. They do well in apartments but also thrive in homes with large yards.

They get on well with other dogs and can be trained to be socialised with cats and other pets.

How much grooming does a Peekapoo need?

Peekapoos are not known to shed a lot, and their short, dense coat requires less care than fluffier breeds.

They will still require a lot of brushing though to prevent tangles and mats. Brushing them daily will remove any dead hair, spread natural skin oils, and also remove any dirt stuck to the coat.

The coat length of your Peekapoo puppy will depend on its parents. Dogs with longer coats from their Pekingese parent will require more frequent brushing than those that take after their Poodle parent. Those with longer coats will require occasional trimming to manage their long coats.

Nails should be either clipped or filed, especially if they don't wear down naturally. You should also check the ears weekly for dirt, swelling, or any signs of inflammation. If you notice any dirt, wipe the ears with a damp cotton ball.

Do Peekapoo bark much?

Considering its small size, this dog has a very loud and annoying bark. Of course, the barking tendencies depend on the individual dog, with some dogs barking frequently at any noise, while others are quiet and barely make a sound.

You can eliminate or reduce their barking tendencies with proper training.

Do Peekapoo bite?

Peekapoo dogs have a low tendency to bite. These small dogs are generally not very nippy, and will only bite when provoked or out of excitement.

If you have a biting Peekapoo, provide them with appropriate chew toys to prevent them from biting you. Proper socialisation from a young age will also prevent aggression towards people and other animals.

What is the temperament & personality of a Peekapoo?

The temperament of the Peekapoo can be described as intelligent, affectionate, loyal, and active.

These dogs enjoy spending time with their families and are always willing to cuddle on the couch. They are also active little dogs and require plenty of daily exercise to keep them entertained and stimulated.

Despite their small size, they are great watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners of a perceived threat or stranger. Although these barks are loud and annoying, at least you will know you are safe (and you can use training to reduce their barking tendencies).

Since they love their families so much, the Peekapoo will always want to be by your side. They may act aloof around strangers and will become distressed when left alone for a long time. A Peekapoo's temperament makes it a great companion dog, and it can also be trained as a service or therapy dog.

What is the weight & size of a Peekapoo?

Because this dog is a mixed breed, there is no breed standard and the weight and size provided below are averages. The exact size will depend on the parents, and whether the Pekingese was crossed with a Toy or Miniature Poodle.

Weight:

• 1.8 - 9 kg

Height:

• up to 28 cm

How much training does a Peekapoo need?

Because it is a Poodle mix, the Peekapoo is an intelligent dog. Your Peekapoo pup will respond quickly to training if you use positive reinforcement and consistent commands.

With small dogs, it is recommended that you use crate training so they have a space in the home where they feel safe. As with other dogs, your Peekapoo should enjoy spending time in its crate, and shouldn't be forced to stay in its crate for a long time.

If you socialise your Peekapoo, it will get on well with other dogs and pets. They take naturally to children and enjoy playing with them.

Although the Pekingese is ranked 132nd on the list of intelligent dogs (yes, this list exists!), the Poodle is listed second. A Peekapoo that takes after his poodle parent will therefore be extremely intelligent and fun to train.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Peekapoo?

Although mixed breeds are considered healthier than purebred dogs, the Peekapoo can inherit some health problems from its parents. Here are some common health conditions that can afflict your Peekapoo puppy:

• Patellar Luxation: This condition causes the knee cap to slip out of place. It can be managed with pain medication but can affect the ability of the dog to walk as it gets older.

• Entropion: This condition is when an eyelid turns inward into the eye.

• Sebaceous Adenitis: This is an uncommon skin disease that causes an inflammatory response against the sebaceous glands, and can completely destroy the glands.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This condition causes loss of vision and eventual blindness. It cannot be treated.

• Skin Fold Dermatitis: Common in brachycephalic dogs, this type of dermatitis can be seen as irritated, red skin in the skin folds on the dog's face.

• Addison's Disease: Occurs when the body doesn't produce enough cortisol and aldosterone.

• Mitral Valve Disease: A heart condition due to an oversized mitral valve.

• Brachycephalic Syndrome: This causes difficulty breathing and upper-airway dysfunction.

• Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: This disease restricts blood flow to the femur, which can cause the bone to degenerate and die.

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a common condition in purebred dogs and is due to a malformed hip joint.

• Ear Infections

What is the lifespan of a Peekapoo?

The life expectancy of the Peekapoo is 10 to 15 years.

How much should you feed a Peekapoo?

Just like other Poodle mixes, the Peekapoo requires a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet. Peekapoos do well when fed quality kibble (dry food). It is best to avoid low-cost kibble that is filled with wheat, additives, preservatives, and fillers.

Try looking for dry food that will match the size, age, and activity level of your Peekapoo. If you are uncertain, consult your vet for advice.

In general, your Peekapoo should eat between 1/4 to 3/4 cups of dry food a day, spread over two meal times. The actual amount will depend on the size of your dog. You can also add canned food or vegetables to their food.

These little dogs love food and can quickly become obese, so it is up to the owner to make sure they have an adequate diet and plenty of exercise.

What is the price of a Peekapoo in Australia?

The average price of a Peekapoo puppy is $275-1450.