Peekapoo at a Glance: Quick Facts

Temperament

Loving, affectionate, loyal, intelligent, playful, energetic, protective, can be sensitive to being alone, eager to please, alert watchdogs, may exhibit a stubborn streak.

Height

6 to 11 inches

Weight

4 to 20 pounds

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Grooming Needs

Moderate to High. Daily brushing for longer coats, a few times a week for shorter clips. Regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Requires consistent nail trims, ear checks, and dental care.

Exercise Level

Low to Moderate. Daily walks and indoor playtime are usually sufficient.

Good With

Families with older children, other well-socialized pets, and individuals. They typically warm up to strangers once introduced. Excellent companion dogs due to their affectionate nature.

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Shedding Level

Low. Considered a low-shedding breed, often making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. While not completely non-shedding, they are classified as hypoallergenic due to their coat type inherited from the Poodle parent.

The Soul of a Peekapoo: Temperament and Personality

A portrait of a white curly dog at the beach.

The Peekapoo is truly a breed with a heart of gold, blending the dignified charm of the Pekingese with the sharp wit of the Poodle. These small dogs are renowned for their loving and incredibly affectionate nature. They thrive on human companionship, often displaying an insatiable desire to be near their favorite people, whether that means following you from room to room or curling up on your lap for a cozy snooze. Their deep loyalty to their families makes them truly devoted companions, and they often form strong, protective bonds.

Despite their small stature, Peekapoos are surprisingly alert and make excellent watchdogs, quick to sound the alarm if they hear unfamiliar sounds or encounter strangers. This protective instinct, combined with their intelligence inherited from the Poodle, means early and consistent socialization is crucial to ensure they greet new faces with curiosity rather than suspicion.

Peekapoos are also known for their playful and energetic side, always ready for a game or an interactive toy session. Their intelligence makes them capable learners, eager to please their owners and pick up new commands with relative ease. However, they can sometimes exhibit a charmingly stubborn streak, requiring patient and consistent training methods. This breed’s high intelligence, coupled with their desire for attention and praise, means they respond best to positive reinforcement. While generally good-natured, their strong attachment can lead to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, making them ideal for households where someone is frequently home. A well-socialized Peekapoo typically gets along well with respectful older children and other pets, adding a vibrant and cuddly dynamic to any family.

Is a Peekapoo Right For Your Family & Lifestyle?

Choosing a dog is a significant commitment, and while Peekapoos are generally wonderful companions, it’s essential to consider if their needs align with your lifestyle. Here’s an honest look to help you decide.

A Peekapoo is an ideal companion for:

Individuals or families seeking a highly affectionate and loyal lapdog who loves to be the center of attention.

Those who are home frequently or can make arrangements for their dog, as Peekapoos are prone to separation anxiety and thrive on companionship.

People with allergies, as their low-shedding coat often makes them a suitable choice for allergy sufferers.

Owners who enjoy regular grooming routines, including daily brushing for longer coats and professional grooming appointments.

You might want to reconsider a Peekapoo if:

You or your family members are away from home for long periods daily, as they can suffer from severe separation anxiety.

You prefer a completely maintenance-free coat; while low-shedding, Peekapoos require consistent grooming to prevent mats and maintain skin health.

You live in a very loud environment or have very young, boisterous children who may not understand how to interact safely with a small dog.

You’re looking for an independent dog that doesn’t demand much attention or physical closeness.

 

Caring for Your Peekapoo: Needs & Recommendations

Providing proper care for your Peekapoo will ensure a long, happy, and healthy life together. From their diet to their daily exercise and grooming, attention to detail in these areas is key.

Diet & Nutrition

The Peekapoo is a small breed, and like many small dogs, they can be prone to obesity. It’s crucial to manage their caloric intake carefully. Generally, a Peekapoo should consume around 40 calories per pound of its ideal body weight daily. This can typically be met with 1/4 to 3/4 cups of high-quality dry dog food, divided into two meals. Always choose a premium dog food formulated for small breeds, as these often contain appropriate nutrient balances and kibble sizes.

While dry kibble should be the foundation, occasional additions of lean cooked meats (such as chicken or turkey), dog-safe vegetables (like carrots, green beans, or sweet potato), and wet dog food can offer variety and additional hydration. Soft, moist food can be particularly beneficial for puppies during weaning and for senior Peekapoos who may have dental issues or difficulty chewing dry kibble. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dietary plan for your individual Peekapoo, considering their age, activity level, and specific health needs. Avoid overfeeding treats and human foods to prevent unhealthy weight gain.

Exercise Requirements

Despite their energetic bursts, Peekapoos are generally a low to moderate activity breed, making them suitable for various living situations, including apartments. Daily exercise is important, but it doesn’t need to be overly strenuous. A couple of short daily walks (20-30 minutes total) combined with some indoor playtime is usually sufficient to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Engaging in games like fetch or tug-of-war indoors can help burn off excess energy.

Remember that due to their small size, Peekapoos can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. In colder weather, consider dressing them in a dog sweater or coat for outdoor walks. In warmer climates, avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating. While they enjoy being involved in family activities, always monitor them to ensure they aren’t overexerting themselves trying to keep up with more active companions.

Grooming

Peekapoos inherit various coat types depending on which parent they favor, but they are generally considered low-shedding dogs, which is great news for allergy sufferers. However, a “low-shedding” label does not mean “no-maintenance.” Their soft, wavy, or curly coats can be prone to matting and tangling without regular care.

For a shorter clip, your Peekapoo will need professional grooming every 4-6 weeks, along with brushing a few times a week at home. If you prefer a longer, fuller coat, daily brushing will be essential to prevent mats and keep their fur healthy and clean. Regular baths as needed (typically every 3-4 weeks or when dirty) using a gentle dog shampoo are also recommended.

Beyond coat care, routine grooming also includes:

  • Nail Trims: Trim nails every 1-2 months to prevent overgrowth, which can be painful and lead to posture issues.
  • Ear Care: Weekly ear checks and gentle cleaning with a vet-approved solution can help prevent ear infections, especially for floppy-eared dogs.
  • Dental Hygiene: Small breeds are particularly prone to dental diseases later in life. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste is highly recommended from puppyhood. Regular professional dental cleanings at the vet, as needed, are also crucial for maintaining good oral health.
Training & Socialization

Peekapoos are intelligent dogs that respond well to training, largely thanks to their Poodle lineage. They are eager to please and thrive on positive reinforcement, making training an engaging experience. Short, fun, and consistent training sessions work best. Use treats, praise, and play to reward desired behaviors.

While intelligent, their Pekingese heritage can sometimes introduce a stubborn streak. This means training requires patience, consistency, and clear expectations from the owner. Puppy training classes are an excellent investment, offering not only structured lessons but also crucial early socialization opportunities with other dogs and people. These classes can help your Peekapoo develop into a well-mannered companion and address potential issues like excessive barking, which this alert breed can be prone to. Early and continuous socialization is vital to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults, comfortable with new sights, sounds, people, and pets. Introduce them to various positive experiences from a young age to minimize suspicious behavior towards strangers.

Health & Lifespan: What to Expect

The Peekapoo generally enjoys a healthy lifespan of 10 to 15 years, benefiting from the genetic diversity of being a mixed breed. However, like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health conditions inherited from their Pekingese and Poodle parents. It’s important for prospective owners to be aware of these potential concerns, though a reputable breeder will always screen their breeding stock to minimize the risk of passing on genetic diseases.

Other potential health concerns include:

  • Orthopedic Conditions: Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia (malformation of joints), and luxating patella (slipping kneecap) are common in many small breeds.
  • Eye Conditions: Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts can affect their vision.
  • Blood Disorders: Von Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder).
  • Endocrine Issues: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
  • Legg-Calves-Perthes Disease: A condition affecting the hip joint, more common in small breeds.
  • Dental Disease: Small breeds are especially prone to dental issues, making regular dental care critical.
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome: While less pronounced than in a pure Pekingese, some Peekapoos might inherit a flatter face, leading to mild breathing issues or sensitivity to heat.

At PuppyGuyz, we work exclusively with breeders who conduct thorough health screenings and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. This commitment helps ensure that your Peekapoo puppy comes from healthy lines, significantly reducing the likelihood of these inherited conditions. Always ask about the health clearances of the puppy’s parents when speaking with a breeder.

The History of the Peekapoo: From Designer Origins to Your Home

A small crossbreed (shih tzu / chihuahua) dog walking in the park

The Peekapoo is considered one of the earliest and most popular “designer dog breeds,” intentionally developed to combine desirable traits from two distinct purebreds. This charming cross originated in the United States in the 1950s, a time when interest in hypoallergenic and companion-focused breeds began to grow.

The goal was to create a small, friendly, and low-shedding companion dog by crossing the courageous and affectionate Pekingese with the intelligent and low-shedding Poodle (typically Miniature or Toy Poodle varieties). The Pekingese, an ancient breed originating in China, was historically favored by Chinese royalty, known for its regal demeanor and loyal nature. The Poodle, despite its association with France, originated in Germany as a water retriever, renowned for its intelligence and elegant, curly, non-shedding coat.

The resulting F1 generation (first-generation cross of two purebred parents) produced the Peekapoo, a dog that often inherits the Poodle’s hypoallergenic qualities and intelligence, combined with the Pekingese’s amiable temperament and distinctive facial features. While not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a purebred, the Peekapoo is recognized by various hybrid dog clubs, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club, acknowledging its status as a recognized crossbreed. From these early beginnings, the Peekapoo has grown in popularity, evolving into the beloved family companion we know today.

Meet Our Available Peekapoo Puppies

Ready to bring a bundle of joy into your life? Explore our current selection of adorable Peekapoo puppies! Each one is eager to find their forever home, and we’re committed to making your puppy adoption journey as smooth and joyful as possible. Click below to view our available Peekapoo puppies and find your new best friend.

Rosie female cavapoo
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Cavapoo – Rosie

$2,300.00
Duke Male Siberian Husky
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Siberian Husky – Duke

$2,300.00
Betty Siberian Husky Female
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Siberian Husky – Betty

$2,300.00
fern Female German Shepherd
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German Shepherd – Fern

$2,300.00
Rory Male German Shepherd
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German Shepherd – Rory

$2,300.00
Daisy female Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retriever – Daisy

$2,300.00
Harry male Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retriever – Harry

$2,300.00
Isabella female Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retriever – Isabella

$2,300.00
View all Available Puppies

Find a Peekapoo Near You

While PuppyGuyz offers nationwide delivery, you might be curious about where Peekapoo puppies are most commonly available. Here are some major U.S. states where you can frequently find reputable breeders and families seeking this charming companion:

Looking for a Peekapoo puppy in your area? We deliver healthy, well-socialized puppies to families across the United States. Explore our available puppies by state to find the perfect addition to your family:

Pennsylvania

Ohio

New York

California

Florida

Texas

click here to Check all States

Your Comprehensive Peekapoo FAQ

Have more questions about the delightful Peekapoo? We’ve compiled the most common inquiries to provide you with the most complete information possible.

What exactly is a Peekapoo?

A Peekapoo is a designer dog breed, a first-generation cross (F1) between a purebred Pekingese and a purebred Poodle (typically Miniature or Toy Poodle). This pairing aims to combine the best traits of both parent breeds.

How long do Peekapoos typically live?

The average lifespan for a Peekapoo ranges from 10 to 15 years, assuming they receive proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups.

Do Peekapoos shed a lot?

Peekapoos are considered low-shedding dogs. While no dog is truly 100% non-shedding, their coat type, often inherited from the Poodle, minimizes loose hair, making them a more manageable choice for many households.

Are Peekapoos hypoallergenic?

Yes, Peekapoo dogs are generally considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable option for individuals who suffer from pet allergies. This is due to their Poodle lineage, which contributes a low-dander, low-shedding coat.

What colors can Peekapoo puppies come in?

Peekapoos come in a surprisingly wide array of colors, reflecting the diverse color genetics of both parent breeds. Common colors include buff, chocolate, red, sable, black, white, cream, gray, silver, and apricot. They can also have various markings.

How big do full-grown Peekapoo dogs get?

The weight of a full-grown Peekapoo can range significantly, typically from 4 pounds up to 20 pounds, depending on the size of the Poodle parent and individual genetics.

How tall does a Peekapoo get?

A Peekapoo can stand anywhere from 6 inches to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. They can come in Teacup, Toy, or Miniature sizes, which directly depends on whether their Poodle parent was a teacup, toy, or miniature Poodle.

At what age is a Peekapoo considered fully grown?

Most Peekapoos reach their adult body size and weight just before their first birthday, typically between 9-12 months of age.

Do Peekapoos bark a lot?

Peekapoos can be quite vocal. They are very alert and make good watchdogs, often barking to notify their owners of new sounds or the presence of strangers. Early training can help manage excessive barking.

Are Peekapoo dogs intelligent?

Yes, Peekapoos are intelligent dogs. This trait comes from both parent breeds, particularly the Poodle, which is recognized as one of the smartest dog breeds. Their intelligence makes them capable of learning a wide range of commands and tricks.