Poodle Dog Breed Information

Black Teacup Peekapoo Puppies Breeders: Pekingese Poodle mix

The Peekapoo is considered one of the original "designer" or hybrid dog breeds. The first Pekingese-poodle mixes were bred in the 1950s to meet the demand for small dogs with low-shedding, "hypoallergenic" coats, and the breed remains popular today.

Similar to their parent breeds, adult Peekapoos are small in stature, standing less than 11 inches tall and weighing between 4–20 pounds. A Pekingese crossed with a toy poodle is smallest and called a teacup Peekapoo. But what these dogs lack in size, they make up for in personality.

"Pekingese are independent and stoic, and poodles like to be the life of the party; Pekingese are more aloof and poodles can be quite clingy," says Jennifer Hart, founder of Hart-2-Heart Rescue in Greensboro, North Carolina. "Combining a Pekingese and a poodle can make for a fairly balanced dog that is affectionate but independent, too."

Pekingese were bred to guard palaces and emperors in Asia, which means the Peekapoo isn't afraid to sound the alarm to warn that strangers are near. The old adage, "their bark is bigger than their bite," holds true with the breed; they're very vocal and believe it's their job to act as their owners' personal alarm system, Hart says.

At home, the Peekapoo is loving and loyal. He's a low-energy breed that embodies the definition of lapdog and, thanks to his poodle roots, thrives on constant companionship. He'll make the perfect furry friend for senior citizens.

There's no set standard for how a Peekapoo should look. They can have wavy locks or tight curls and be nearly any color.| CREDIT: COURTESY OF RIGGTOTHERESCUE / INSTAGRAM
The miniature poodle and the Pekingese are small dog breeds, and the Peekapoo is, too. The dogs can reach up to 11 inches tall and weigh between 4–20 pounds, depending on whether their poodle parent was a toy or miniature breed. These petite pups have coats in colors ranging from silver, grey, chocolate and black to white, cream, apricot, and buff.

The breed, which was developed for owners with allergies, tends to have a low-shedding coat that's considered hypoallergenic. And while there's no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic pet, the Peekapoo might be a good option for someone who gets itchy eyes or a stuffy nose around dogs.

But low-allergen doesn't equal low-maintenance; some Peekapoos have longer coats that require daily brushing, while others have short or clipped coats that can be brushed weekly.

Temperament
Both poodles and Pekingese are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal; traits that are reinforced in Peekapoos. These are dogs that love spending time with their people and will happily tag along for (rather short) walks or errands, but are happiest curled up in your lap.

"Social isolation can be very challenging for any poodle mix," Hart says.

But the Peekapoo's "love me, love me" personality may not extend to strangers. Hart notes this hybrid can be aloof with strangers—in fact, the breed make excellent watch dogs, as they tend to bark when strangers approach.

White Peekapoo standing outside in the grass

Peekapoos are more snuggle bug than dog sports champion. They won't complain about snoozing on the couch all day!| CREDIT: COURTESY OF SIRGUSTAV / INSTAGRAM
The Peekapoo tends to be a low-energy breed that would rather nap on the sofa than chase a ball. Though most will get along well with other laid-back pets that match their energy levels (or lack of), Hart notes the breed might not be the best choice for homes with small children. Due to their small size and tendency to get underfoot, their little bodies could be accidentally injured by kiddos. Always supervise kids when they play with any pup, and teach them how to interact with animals.

Consistent positive reinforcement training is important to help Peekapoos learn basic commands. Because the parent breeds are both hailed for their intelligence, training will also help provide your Peekapoo much-needed mental stimulation. And he'll love getting treats as a reward!

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