Peek a Poo Dog Breed Information

The PEEK-A-POO

Checkers writes:

Because the Peek-A-Poo is not a purebred dog some people think that we are mutts – but we’re not! We are PEEK-A-POOs….and we are terrific dogs to have.

We are a cross between a purebred Pekingese and a Poodle. The ideal Peek-A-Poo is first generation. These days we have been tagged “designer dogs”. And that’s fine with us because we are in fact very special…but we Peek-A-Poo’s have been around for over 50 years. That’s right – the Peek-A-Poo is one of the oldest of the hybrid, or designer, breeds. We were developed in the 1950s with the cross of a Pekingese with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. The goal was to produce a non- to low-shedding dog suitable for people with allergies. The Peek-A-Poo gained popularity by the early 1960s, around the same time as the Cock-A-Poo.

But here lately there are all sorts of “designer dogs”. Schnoodles, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Puggles and more. In most cases designer dogs bring owners the best of each breed. It seems that the POODLE is the constant factor in the designer dog category. The reason for this is it generally gives the dog the advantage of being a very low shedding dog. Take me – I don’t have an undercoat….I don’t shed at all – which makes it terrific for my mom who has terrible allergies!

These are great combinations and are becoming more and more popular with the dog loving public who aren’t necessarily of the opinion that a dog must be pure and registered with the AKC. Just as formalities in life have given way to casual life style, the breed of a dog doesn’t really matter anymore if you love dogs and are looking for a loving pet. The breed of a dog does count when it comes to the loyalty and nature of your canine companion. Designer dogs fit the bill.

Purists say that you can’t rely on the personality of a designer dog. I beg to differ.
We are small, soft furry dogs with cute “bobbed hair” type ears and a long straight furry tail. We generally live for 12-15 years. We are usually around 11 inches tall and will weigh between 9 and 20 pounds when fully grown. I weight about 11.5 pounds - the size will depend on whether you come from a Standard or Miniature or Toy Poodle.

We have exceptionally great personalities. We are SUPER smart, funny and friendly. Some of us actually believe that we are human. I certainly do. We are extremely friendly, loyal and affectionate and totally dedicated to our families. We do tend to be protective of our owners and we make the best lap dogs. We are also a perfect family dog and we tend to be very friendly with children and get along with other pets. I love cats…..and other dogs…especially big dogs!!!!

I am the ideal lapdog – and believe me – that is where I spend most of my time. If I’m not in a lap I’m right next to my mommy or daddy. I totally delight in being part of every family activity. I am rarely combative and I am happiest when I am with my hoomans – especially in the great outdoors. I am very protective of my family and will defend them with everything in the power of my 11.5 pounds.

A Peekapoo can adapt to any type of dwelling, including apartments, but they do much better with a small fenced yard to access, since they enjoy being outdoors. They should not be left unattended outside, however, since they can become prey for larger dogs and animals in the neighborhood.

A Peekapoo should also live in a home with air-conditioning, since they can be susceptible to heat exhaustion. A Peekapoo should never be exercised or left outside on unusually hot days.
Peek-A-Poos can be noisy and will alert bark whenever they see something or someone suspicious. This can be a little irritating at 2 in the morning , but at least they make great watchdogs. FYI – just go sleep in the big bed and nothing will bother you – that’s what I do!
In some cases we can inherit that overactive tear duct like our Poodle parent – not me tho…..I’m perfect!!!!

Overall we Peek-A-Poos are wonderful, devoted and loving companions.

Despite the popularity of the Peek-A-Poo, there is no breed club. We have remained largely a first-generation cross and there is no indication that multigenerational breeding will occur--but never say never.

Because of our small, lap-friendly size and sweetly affectionate temperament, the Peek-A-Poo has maintained a strong following….and my folks think I am the very best doggie in the world to own.

I bet you there are over one thousand “breeds” listed under the designer dog category. Purebreds are outnumbered and may someday be just a memory! Some people say dogs have become “multi-racial” just like people and that is a good thing!

Whatever kind of dog you decide on just remember to be a responsible dog owner and spay or neuter your dog. Especially if you are a “designer dog”. We are much healthier as first generation dogs and we want to make sure that all doggies [and kitties] are afforded a long life filled with love and affection….so let’s not over-populate!

If you would like to write something about your dog's breed, please email us at info@poochieheaven.com