Country of Origin: The Peek A Poo is a cross between the Pekingese and the Toy or Miniature Poodle, a cross that originated in the United States in the 1950’s. Like many Poodle crossbreeds, it is known by many names, such as Peke A Poo, PekaPoo, or PeekaPoo. Poodle crossbreeds are meant to produce a dog with mixed traits and the Poodle’s signature nonshedding coat. As a crossbreed, the Peek A Poo is not eligible for registration with purebred registries such as the American Kennel Club, but it can be registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club, as Peke A Poo. The Peke A Poo is not considered a purebred because it doesn’t ‘breed true’, meaning that it doesn’t display a consistent set of characteristics. Like other ‘designer breeds’, the Peek A Poo has seen a recent surge in popularity. Some breeders produce Peek A Poos by crossing a purebred Poodle with a purebred Pekingese (called a first generation cross), but others allow crossing Peek A Poos with Poodles or Pekingese (called a backcross), or other Peek A Poos (called a multi-generation cross). Different crosses can result in different characteristics.
Size: The Peek A Poo has an average shoulder height of 11 in (28 cm) and weighs 10-20 lbs (5-9 kg). Peek A Poos are sometimes sub-classified as Miniature Peek A Poos, Toy Peek A Poos, and Teacup Peek A Poos, from largest to smallest. Peek A Poos may have the Pekingese’s flat skull and large eyes, the Poodle’s long, narrow muzzle, or anything in between, depending on genetic influence of the parents.
Coat: The Peek A Poo has a soft, cotton-textured coat which can be white, brown, black, silver, or a mixture thereof. It has a single layered coat with little dander and sheds little to none, making it an excellent match for those with allergies.
Character: The Peek A Poo is friendly, intelligent, and loving of its family. Peek A Poos tend to be calmer than most other toy breeds. The Peek A Poo is usually well behaved, though it can be stubborn. Peek A Poos have a loud bark which they employ frequently, especially when they hear loud noises, but this can be overcome with training. They like to amuse their owners with playful antics.
Temperament: The Peek A Poo is wary of strangers and highly protective of its family. It gets along well with children, dogs and other pets, but socialization when young is recommended. Young children should be supervised around the Peek A Poo to ensure they treat it with respect.
Care: The Peek A Poo requires a weekly brushing and combing. Bathe only as necessary. Cleaning of the area around the eyes may be necessary to remove tear stains; careful brushing with a small fine comb is effective. The Peek A Poo has a lifespan of 11-15 years. Like other hybrids, Peek A Poos tend to have fewer health problems than purebreds (known as ‘hybrid vigor’). Common health problems are breathing difficulties during exercise, cataracts, and congestive heart failure.
Training: The Peek A Poo is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it easy to train. A consistent, loving approach will reap the best rewards.
Activity: The Peek A Poo can have most of its exercise needs met by indoor activity, but it also enjoys walks and outdoor play. The Peek A Poo is a good pet for an apartment or condominium.