First, you will want to know that all Poo dogs” are Poodle mixes, which makes the Pekeapoo a Pekingese and Toy or Miniature Poodle Mix.
But how does that breed turn out?
What are some of their common characteristics, physical and personality-wise? Those are some essential things you need to know before you buy one and make it your forever dog. Because the last thing we here at IndulgeYourPet want to see happen is for the “right,” Pekeapoo to be adopted by the “wrong” owner!
And…
We only say this because there are hundreds of options when it comes time to pick a particular “type” dog for you and your family. Some of these “dogs” might be perfect, while others might make you completely insane!
That is why…
We wanted to take a moment and describe what it might be like to own one of these excellent little “hybrid” dogs so that if you’re ever allowed to make one your own, you’ll know it’s a good idea.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Pekeapoo Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Probably USA
Original Purpose: Companion animal
Height: 8 to 18 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 7 to 20 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Currently, “Hybrid” or “Designer” dogs are not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC)
Lifespan: 11-15 years
Origin of the Pekeapoo Dog Breed
As a mix dog, the history of a Peekapoo dog involves the history of many different dogs. That’s how the “breed” of Pekeapoo came into existence. We say “breed” in quotes because, unfortunately, a crossbreed technically isn’t a “breed” in the truest sense. These dogs have been crossbred for more than twenty years to get a consistent look. However, Pekeapoos still look very different, though we’ll go into that more in the next section.
Technically…
We can say that the Pekingese and Mini or Toy Poodle started crossbreeding in the 1950s, but it became severe only in the 1980s and 90s. In addition to the novelty of a new-looking dog, people decided to crossbreed these two small dogs to make a low-shedding dog good for those with allergies.
And as we’ve…
As previously mentioned, it’s important to note that this dog (or any other hybrid or designer dog, for that matter) is not a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) and does not have its dog organization.
Physical Characteristics
As mentioned, the Pekeapoo (sometimes spelled Peekapoo or Peek a Poo) can come in various “looks.” Think of this as how you and your siblings have different features, despite having the same parents. That’s the way it works. As you know, sometimes siblings can look like two peas in a pod…and other times, you have to squint to see any resemblance.
Colors:
Pekeapoos can be silver, white, apricot/light tan, brown or chocolate, gray, sable, cream, caramel, and other colors. Sometimes Pekeapoos are black and tan or two colors mixed.
And since…
It’s part mini or toy poodle; these are tiny dogs. If you want a slightly bigger dog, you might want to consider a Cockapoo, a Cocker Spaniel, and Standard Poodle crossbreed.
Personality and Temperament
As a toy and small dog mix, this puppy has a lot of energy- even after it’s no longer a puppy. Happy and sometimes jumpy, Peekapoos are loving and affectionate and won’t think twice before planting some big wet kisses on your face every time you return home (even if you’ve only been gone for thirty minutes!).
Though a small dog…
A Peekapoo is loud when it comes to strangers and intruders. This makes the dog an excellent watchdog or guard dog (though he’s probably not going to be able to attack strangers too well simply due to size). And because this is an active dog, you must let them exercise a lot. Also, to tame the hyper behavior, Peekapoos need to be put into obedience school from the time their puppies. By the time they’re eight weeks old, they need to be enrolled in a class. Failing to do this could result in a destructive pup.
Potential Health Concerns
The best way to find a healthy Pekeapoo for a pet is to get them from a reputable dog breeder. They’re common to find for sale at pet stores, but never buy a dog from a pet store. Those dogs are almost always bred in puppy mills and likely have many health problems.
Also, something to consider…
If you get a rescue Peekapoo, you’re going a wonderful thing for a needy dog. It’s important to acknowledge that this dog could have been a puppy mill baby and thus may also have serious health issues. Some of Peekapoos’ most common health issues include any that a Pekingese or Toy Poodle can get. Luckily, crossbreeding does reduce some of the risk of genetically inherited diseases, though not entirely.
The most common diseases they will get include:
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: This is a hip disease where the head of the femur doesn’t get enough blood. As a result, the bone can die. The vet may recommend a procedure that can reduce pressure on the joint. This disease is not curable. Treatment will focus on pain relief.
- Hip Dysplasia: very common among dogs and less severe than Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease. If you want to breed your dog, it will cause walking problems and birthing issues. Most can live with hip dysplasia, but some will need surgery
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This could ultimately result in blindness if not taken care of properly.
When you buy a Peekapoo puppy, ask the breeder for health certificates and any information about the dog’s family health history.
And while…
Many of these conditions may not be life-threatening, but they can become quite expensive, particularly if they become recurring issues. This is why we here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be suitable for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
