The Peekapoo Designer Dog – Everything You Need to Know

The cute little Peekapoo also goes by, Pekepoo, Pekapoo, Pekingese Poodle mix, and Peke-A-Poo; Peekapoos are not purebred dogs. However, they are a crossbreed from purebred Toy Poodles and purebred Pekingese. They have inherited their parents’ traits and are loving, gentle, and caring.

If you are looking for an affectionate companion dog, the Peekapoo just might be the solution for you. Apart from their friendly nature and their small size, there is much to know about this designer dog and this article has all the information you need to know if this is the right dog breed for you.

The first Peekapoos were crossbred back in the 50's. The main goal was to produce a loyal dog with minimal shedding for people with allergies. The cross-breeding was first done in the United States, however, the Peekapoo has become recognized in other countries over the years.

Despite their loving nature, the Pekingese Poodle Mix has not received recognition from the American Kennel Club. Despite this, the Peekapoo has been recognized by the International Designer Canine Registry (ICDR), American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), and Designer Breed Registry (DBR).

The lack of registration should not deter your decision of owning a Peekapoo since they have a very appealing personality.

Coat Color: The coat on this cross breed dog may be white, gray, silver, red apricot, cream, black, chocolate, buff, or sable. It may also have a variety of markings ranging from phantom markings to brindle patches.

Moreover, the Peekapoo coat is soft and has a cottony feel. It's wavy too with a medium or long length. Also, it has no undercoat that needs to be trimmed to avoid tangling or knotting. Regular grooming is important to keep this Poodle Mix in shape.

Just like their parents, Peekapoos are great companion dogs. They crave attention and enjoy cuddling. When not seated on your lap, this dog will be lying or sitting next to you.

Peek-A-Poos with nice temperaments are gentle, loving, and loyal towards their owner and family. They are happy to be part of a family, but can be aggressive and protective against intruders.

The Peekapoo is categorized as an intelligent dog that is curious and eager to learn. With positive reinforcement and rewards, this little lion dog takes little time during training.

Moreover, this crossbreed is naturally suspicious of strangers or new pets. To curb this, start early socialization with people and animals. You can resolve this by taking your dog to a crowded park or regularly inviting guests over at your place to help your pet in socializing.

If the Peekapoo does not receive adequate socialization, they may turn out to be aggressive or timid. Early and continuous socialization is vital in this dog’s life.

In terms of interaction, this designer breed does well with older children and other pets but not toddlers. This is because toddlers tend to hurt the poor small dogs unconsciously. Adult supervision is therefore recommended when young children are playing with the dog.

This active little dog does not qualify as a guard dog but works perfectly as a watchdog. In case of suspicious strangers or dogs, this little dog will bark loudly to alert you. Despite its small body, it has a loud bark that acts as compensation.

Although affectionate and friendly, this breed may experience separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. The anxiety may lead to excessive barking and destruction from excessive chewing on furniture and things.

Ears: Once a week, check the Peekapoo’s ears for any signs of redness, dirt, or bad odor as this is a sign of infection. Then wipe your dogs ears with a gentle ear cleaner.

Teeth: Daily brushing of your dog’s teeth will prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tartar build-up. If daily brushing may seem like too much work, then brush your dog’s teeth twice or thrice a week to avoid bacteria build-up.

You can also help clean your puppy’s gums by buying him teething rings. These dental chew toys will be a source of entertainment for your little pet as well as a grooming kit for his teeth.

Nails: If your Peekapoo is unable to naturally trim her nails, then you must trim them. You can tell if the nails are overgrown when they click on floors or your dog scratches you when greeting you.

For a positive grooming experience, start grooming your puppy at an early age. Have rewards, treats, and positive reinforcements for easy training.

Despite its small body, a Peekapoo needs regular exercise. A walk each day is required as well as cheerful play. This little dog is energetic and should not be turned into a couch potato.

On the other hand, the Peke-A-Poo should never be over-exercised. Why you ask? Well, It belongs to a group of brachycephalic dogs which are characterized by short skulls and flat faces. They easily overheat from too much exercise, which can also result in respiratory diseases.

The amount of feeding required is determined by your Peekapoo’s age, size, metabolism, build, and activity level. However, the recommended intake is ¼ cup to ¾ cup of dry kibble that should be served twice a day.

For healthy nourishment, Peekapoos need high-quality food. This dry food is full of protein content and free of fillers which is opposite of cheap kibble.

Occasionally, they can be spoiled with treats, canned food, cooked meat, and dog cookies. The treats should not be often as they may easily lead to obesity.

The Peekapoo needs training from an early age. Potty training, crate training, and personal grooming should be introduced when the puppy is young and backed with positive reinforcement.

Just like kids, this active dog can also engage in mischief and ruin your personal effects from chewing and nipping. It's, therefore, necessary you train your Peekapoo on what is right and wrong without being harsh. Reward good behavior and caution against bad behavior.

For fast learning, always have rewards, treats, and positive reinforcement when your dog does something right. You can cheer or cuddle your dog for a better learning experience.

Moreover, start the training when your puppy is about 8 weeks old. By this time, her concentration span has developed unlike when she was younger.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is an eye disease that gradually decreases a dog’s eyesight. In its early stages, the dog loses its sight during the night but later progresses when the dog loses all of its eyesight. Despite this, affected dogs cope well since they are used to their surroundings even with lost sight.

Legg Perthes: The Legg Calve Perthes Disease is common in small puppies and affects the hip joint. Limited blood supply to the femur head causes disintegration to the pelvis causing the limping and reduced function of the leg muscle. Legg Perthes can be corrected through surgery.

Respiratory Problems: Since the Peekapoo is a brachycephalic dog, exposure to high temperatures and a lot of exercises can weigh them down causing respiratory problems. To avoid this, have an air conditioner and do not over-exercise your dog.

Before taking a Peekapoo home, ensure you check that the puppy’s parents have the relevant health clearances. Also, purchase this designer breed from known and recognized breeders.

Since the 1950s, Peekapoos have gained popularity because of their loving and affectionate nature. Bred as a low shedding dog, it has accomplished this task as well as become a favorite and cheerful pet to its family.

With a fenced yard and air conditioning, the Peekapoo will always feel comfortable at home. Besides, since she is naturally energetic and active, the Peekapoo fits the category of an affectionate exercise dog.

It is, however, advisable that you buy this crossbreed from a legit breeder, since you may take home a sickly animal that will only prove to be expensive in terms of medication. Ensure you see a medical clearances before taking a Peekapoo puppy home.

With that said, making a Peekapoo your new family pet will be the right decision. She will not only be a delight to have around but also a cheerful family member!

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