What is a Peekapoo?
The Peekapoo is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Pekingese with a Poodle. This mix has become popular because it combines the best qualities of both parent breeds. Pekingeses bring affectionate and loyal personalities, while Poodles contribute their intelligent and active nature.
Most Peekapoos weigh between 24 and 42 pounds and stand 11 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan ranges from 12 to 15 years with proper care. Because this is a mixed breed, individual dogs can vary quite a bit in appearance and temperament depending on which parent they take after more.
If you are considering adopting or buying a Peekapoo, understanding both parent breeds helps you prepare for what to expect. Use our breed quiz to see if a Peekapoo fits your lifestyle, or check the calorie calculator to plan their nutrition.
Parent Breeds at a Glance
| Trait | Pekingese | Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Size | small | medium |
| Weight | 7-14 lbs | 40-70 lbs |
| Height | 6-9" | 15-22" |
| Lifespan | 12-14 yrs | 12-15 yrs |
| Activity | Low | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| AKC Group | Toy | Non-Sporting |
Peekapoo Temperament and Personality
The Peekapoo typically shows a blend of personality traits from both parents. Common traits include being affectionate, loyal, regal, intelligent. Individual personalities can lean more toward one parent, so meeting the specific puppy before committing is always a good idea.
Early socialization plays a big role in how any dog develops. Expose your Peekapoo puppy to different people, dogs, sounds, and environments during the first 16 weeks. This builds confidence and reduces the chance of fear-based behaviors later in life.
Health and Common Conditions
Mixed breeds often have fewer health problems than purebreds because of increased genetic diversity. That said, Peekapoos can still inherit conditions from either parent breed. Regular vet visits and preventive care go a long way in keeping your dog healthy.
Health issues to watch for:
- ● Patellar Luxation
- ● Dental Problems
- ● Tracheal Collapse
- ● Eye Problems
- ● Hip Dysplasia
- ● Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- ● Epilepsy
- ● Sebaceous Adenitis
Ask for health clearances from the breeder before buying a Peekapoo puppy. Responsible breeders test both parent dogs for hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and breed-specific genetic disorders.
Grooming Needs
Grooming level: High
Peekapoos require regular brushing (3-4 times per week minimum) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Their coat can mat easily if neglected.
Check our grooming schedule tool for a personalized plan.
Exercise Requirements
Activity level: High
Plan for 45-60 minutes of daily activity. Peekapoos enjoy walks, swimming, and interactive play. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog.
Use our calorie calculator to match food intake with activity level.
Feeding Your Peekapoo
A Peekapoo weighing 24 to 42 pounds typically needs about 360 to 630 calories per day, depending on age and activity level. Puppies need calorie-dense food split into 3-4 meals. Adult dogs do well with 2 meals per day.
High-quality protein should be the foundation of your Peekapoo's diet. Check our best food for Pekingeses and best food for Poodles for brand recommendations that work well for this mix. For puppies, our puppy weight calculator helps track healthy growth.
Peekapoo FAQ
How big does a Peekapoo get?
A full-grown Peekapoo typically weighs between 24 and 42 pounds. Size can vary depending on which parent's genes are more dominant.
How long do Peekapoos live?
The average Peekapoo lifespan is 12 to 15 years. Mixed breed dogs often benefit from genetic diversity, which can reduce certain breed-specific health risks.
Are Peekapoos good family dogs?
Peekapoos tend to be great family dogs. They inherit traits from both Pekingeses and Poodles, which often includes a friendly and loyal temperament. Early socialization is still important for any dog.
Do Peekapoos shed a lot?
Shedding depends on which parent's coat the Peekapoo inherits. Pekingeses have high grooming needs, while Poodles have high grooming needs. Your Peekapoo's coat type will determine how much brushing is required.
How much exercise does a Peekapoo need?
Peekapoos need regular daily exercise. With a Pekingese parent (Low energy) and a Poodle parent (High energy), expect your Peekapoo to need at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day.
What health problems do Peekapoos have?
Peekapoos can be prone to health issues from both parent breeds, including Patellar Luxation, Dental Problems, Tracheal Collapse, Eye Problems. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet help prevent many of these conditions.
How much does a Peekapoo cost?
Peekapoo puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 from a reputable breeder. Prices vary based on the breeder's location, parent pedigree, and coat color. Adoption from a rescue is a more affordable option and usually costs $200 to $500.
Are Peekapoos easy to train?
Both Pekingeses and Poodles are known for their intelligence, which usually makes Peekapoos responsive to training. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Start training and socialization early for the best results.