The first thing that you’re going to want to know is that all Poo dogs” are Poodle mixes, which make 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 important 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 end up being adopted by the “wrong” owner!
And…
We only say this because literally there are 100’s of different options out there when it comes time to pick a particular “type” of dog for you and your family. Some of these “dogs” might be perfect for you while other types 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 awesome little “hybrid” dogs so that if you’re ever given the opportunity to make one of them your own, you’ll know for sure if it’s a good idea or not.
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 a lot of 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 of the word.
Now…
These dogs have been crossbred for more than twenty years to try to get a consistent look, however, Pekeapoos still look very different from one another, 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 1950’s, but it became serious only in the 1980’s and 90’s. In addition to the novelty of a new looking dog, the reason people decided to crossbreed these two small dogs was to make a low-shedding dog, good for those with allergies.
And as we’ve…
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 own dog organization.
Physical Characteristics of the Pekeapoo
As mentioned, the Pekeapoo (sometimes spelled Peekapoo or Peek a Poo) can come in a variety of “looks”. Think of this as how you and your siblings have totally 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 dog that’s slightly bigger you might want to consider a Cockapoo which is a Cocker Spaniel and Standard Poodle crossbreed.
Personality of a Pekeapoo
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 a thirty minutes!).
Though a small dog…
A Peekapoo is loud when it comes to strangers and intruders. This makes the dog a great watch dog or guard dog (though, let’s be honest, he’s probably not going to be able to attack stranger too well simply due to size).
And…
Because this is an active dog, you are going to have to let him or her 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.
Health of a Pekeapoo
The best way to find a healthy Pekeapoo for a pet is to get him or her from a reputable dog breeder. They’re common to find for sale at pet stores, but never, ever buy a dog from a pet store. Those dogs are almost always bred in puppy mills and are likely to come with tons of health problems.
Also something to consider…
If you get a rescue Peekapoo, you’re going a wonderful thing for a dog in need. It’s important to acknowledge that this dog could have been a puppy mill baby and thus may also have serious health issues.
Now…
Some of the most common health issues amongst Peekapoos 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 an adequate amount of 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 serious than Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease. Will cause walking problems as well as birthing problems if you want to breed your dog. 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 go to buy a Peekapoo puppy, ask the breeder for health certificates as well as for any information about the dog’s family health history.
And while…
Many of these conditions may not be life threatening, they can certainly become quite expensive to deal with 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 right 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.