Pekingese × Poodle

Peekapoo Breed Guide

Ancient dignity meets modern wit — a devoted, lion-hearted companion in a fluffy little body.

Weight: 4–20 lbs
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Energy: Low
Shedding: Low
Trainability: Moderate
Coat: Wavy to curly, soft — low-shedding
Good with kids: Yes
Good with other dogs: Yes

The Peekapoo (Pekingese × Toy Poodle) is one of the earliest Poodle crosses, developed in the United States in the 1950s and 60s. Combining the Pekingese's ancient dignity and fierce loyalty with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat, Peekapoos are devoted companions with a quiet, regal quality rarely seen in other small hybrid breeds.

Personality

Peekapoos are deeply loyal, calm, and affectionate — they form an intense bond with their primary person and are content to simply be near them. They're more reserved than most Poodle crosses, often requiring time to warm up to new people and situations. Once bonded, they're gentle, sweet, and surprisingly courageous for their size — the Pekingese heritage gives them a confident, unhurried quality that is quite charming. They tend to be quieter and more independent than many small breeds.

Appearance

Peekapoos have a soft, fluffy coat that ranges from wavy to curly depending on which parent they favor. Colors include cream, apricot, white, silver, gray, and sometimes parti. The face often shows the Pekingese influence — slightly flat with large dark eyes and a more pushed-in muzzle than a standard Poodle cross. Size ranges quite a bit depending on the Poodle parent used.

Feeding

High-quality small-breed formula twice daily. Some Peekapoos with more Pekingese influence may have sensitive digestion — choose a food with limited ingredients if digestive issues arise. Monitor weight carefully; both parent breeds can be prone to weight gain.

Grooming

The Peekapoo coat needs brushing 3–4 times per week and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. If the dog has more Pekingese influence, pay attention to skin folds around the face, which need cleaning 2–3 times weekly to prevent irritation. Ear cleaning and dental care are important.

Exercise

Peekapoos have modest exercise needs — 20–30 minutes of daily activity is typically sufficient. They enjoy short walks and indoor play but are not demanding about outdoor time. Their calmer temperament makes them well-suited to quieter households and older owners.

Training

The Poodle influence makes Peekapoos intelligent and capable of learning commands readily. The Pekingese influence adds some independence and stubbornness — they may decide a command isn't worth their time if they don't see the point. Short, positive sessions with high-value rewards and patience work well. Early socialization is important to build confidence in new situations.

Health

Generally healthy. The Pekingese side may contribute brachycephalic tendencies (flat-face breathing issues) in dogs that inherit more of that parent's structure. Other concerns: luxating patella, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia. DNA testing of parent dogs screens for hereditary conditions.

Health Concerns to Know

Luxating patella
Progressive retinal atrophy
Brachycephalic tendencies (if flat-faced)
Hip dysplasia
Skin fold infections (if flat-faced)
Dental disease

Fun Facts

The Pekingese was bred exclusively for Chinese Imperial courts for centuries — they were considered sacred and could only be owned by royalty.
Peekapoos were among the first Poodle hybrid crosses developed in the United States, starting in the 1950s.
The Pekingese has one of the most ancient breed histories of any dog — DNA studies show they're among the closest breeds to wolves genetically.

Peekapoo FAQ

Are Peekapoos good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, especially for calmer households or first-time owners who want a less demanding dog. Their exercise needs are modest and they're generally gentle. The mild stubbornness from the Pekingese side means consistency in training matters, but they're nowhere near as challenging as some terrier breeds.

Do Peekapoos have breathing problems like Pekingese?

It depends on what they inherit. Peekapoos with more Poodle influence in their face typically breathe normally. Those with a more Pekingese-influenced flat face may have some degree of brachycephalic traits. A reputable breeder selects for adequate airway structure.

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