Peekapoo – The Complete Breed Guide

Welcome to our guide to the Peekapoo.

The DogExperts.info website aims to ask questions to breeders, vets and experienced owners to get the answers to your most frequently asked questions about the Peekapoo breed of dog.

You can also help too!

If you can answer any of the questions below, then please add your comments to the box at the bottom of the page or you can email us at sales@dogexperts.info.

We would love to feature your dog and publish any photos or pictures of your Peekapoo you would like to email us.

Are you looking to buy a Peekapoo – then see our list of Peekapoo breeders.

Peekapoo Owner Interview

On this page we feature an interview with Kyle Freeman, owner of Arlo, a male Peekapoo.

Can you tell us who you are and where you live?

My name is Kyle Elizabeth Freeman, and Arlo and I live in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts (a Boston neighborhood). I also have a blog about dogs in my neighborhood called “JP Dogs”. (Here’s the link.)

How long have you owned a Peekapoo?

For 12 and a half years. I got Arlo when he was five months old.

Where did you buy him from?

Because I have a mild dog allergy I had to make sure I got a hypoallergenic breed, so I did go to a breeder. (Next time around, I will try to get a rescue dog and will just have to make sure it’s half poodle, which is one way a dog is deemed hypoallergenic.) My original plan was to get an 8-week old Cockapoo but when push came to shove I got cold feet about the intensive needs of a puppy. The breeder then mentioned that she had “a dog in back that no one adopted.” I’ve never even heard of a peekapoo, but when she brought Arlo out from the back of the house, it was love at first sight even though he was kind of a mess. He looked like a mad scientist. Once I said I would like to take him home she said she would give him a bath and a little trim. When she brought him out a second time, looking all clean and handsome, I fell in love for the second time. The first full day I had Arlo, I had a daylong meltdown, wondering what I’d gotten myself into by taking on the responsibility of a dog. But ever since that day, I’ve believed that it was the best decision I ever made and I love this dog with every ounce of my being!

From your experience what makes this breed so special?

It’s hard to speak for the whole breed but my guy is the most laid-back little dog I’ve ever met. In fact he converts a lot of big-dog people. He hardly barks, and his energy is just really mellow (other than when he goes on a manic tear if he gets wet!) His mellowness makes us very compatible. I wouldn’t be a good match for a high-strung dog. He loves to snuggle, and is a true lapdog. But he also isn’t clingy and doesn’t need to follow me everywhere. So I’d say he’s independent but also really connected. Also he looks like a harp seal or a polar bear; those big soulful eyes!!

What type of personality/temperament do they have?

When we’re walking he does have to sniff EVERYTHING and lifts his leg constantly, even though I tell him there’s nothing left in the tank. So that gets a little tedious, but he just loves being outside so that makes it all worth it.

I believe the Peekapoo is quite a popular dog on social media/Internet these days, can you tell us how this started?

I didn’t know that, so I have no idea :).

What are your feeding routines, such as how often and what types of food do you feed the Peekapoo?

Arlo eats twice a day, and will start campaigning about an hour before mealtime, by staring at me intensely and unwaveringly. A couple years ago he developed hot spots for the first time, so I changed him to a hypoallergenic diet, in case food allergies were contributing to his hotspots. He eats Royal Canine Selected Protein.

Have you encountered any health issues?

Yes, unfortunately a couple years ago Arlo developed Intervertebral Disc Disease which is particularly common in Dachshunds but I think the vet said other small breeds are prone to it also. I had to keep him from basically not moving for two months! He does okay now and is able to walk and run, but there does seem to be a little residual nerve damage. And now I always carry him up and down stairs. I live on the third floor and wonder if all those years of bounding up and down stairs may have been too much for his neck, which is where his disc disease manifested. Also, since I first had him, he has had a periodic limp such that he’ll have to not use that leg for a few steps, but then it works itself out. The vet said it’s because his knee slips in and out, which is also not uncommon for small dogs.

Obviously grooming is another major aspect of owning a Peekapoo, can you offer any tips, advice and popular accessories for your Peekapoo?

I’m lazy about brushing him, and basically don’t. I just take him to my local groomer as needed. I used to do about four times per year, but now it’s more often. He just looks so cute when you can see his little body better!

Any other useful tips and advice that you can offer to potential new owners?

Unfortunately Arlo is not good with little kids. If they are hyper and get in his space, he can do a lot of warning growls and snaps, but not biting. I’ve read that might be the pekingese side of his breed. Not to mention, I don’t love when people get up in my space, uninvited either :). Though I also take some responsibility. I’ve never been great about asserting my dominance, so Arlo thinks he’s Alpha and I worry that’s created extra dominance issues.

Thank you so much for this wonderful interview and for sharing the lovely photos of Arlo. If you want to find out more, you can visit these links.

www.facebook.com/arlothepeekapoo
www.facebook.com/Kyleelizabethfreeman
cloud9redesign.com

Why Choose a Peekapoo?

What type of owners buy a Peekapoo?

What in your opinion are the best things about the Peekapoo breed?

Why do you think the Peekapoo is special?

What are your favourite things about the Peekapoo?

Jerrie of Jerrie’s Pet Place says the Peekapoos are “very sweet and loving dogs, make great family pets. They are non shedding dogs and most range from 5-10 lbs grown so that makes them great for going to places. They are not a barker and are easy to keep up. Some have curlier hair after the poodle.”

Are you glad you choose to buy a Peekapoo and not another breed?

How would you describe the Peekapoo temperament?

What advice might you give to people thinking about whether they should buy a Peekapoo over other breeds?

History & Origins

What are the history and origins of the Peekapoo?

About The Breed

What colors of Peekapoo are most popular?

What does the Peekapoo look like?

What are the pros/cons of the Peekapoo breed?

What can a new owner expect in terms of differences between the Peekapoo and other breeds?

Do they attract a lot of interest and curiosity from the public?

What type of typical personality does the Peekapoo have?

Is it possible to describe a fairly typical Peekapoo?

What is the breed standard/description for the Peekapoo?

Were there particular colors people preferred and that maybe you focused on?

Are there any downsides to owning a Peekapoo that prospective owners should be aware of?

Is the Peekapoo breed of dog suitable for first-time dog owners?

Some breeds can be described as greedy and prone to weight issues, would this apply to the Peekapoo?

What are the key differences when compared to other breeds?

Is the Peekapoo a breed suitable for a person or family that are out at work all day?

Some owners seek a breed suitable for barking and offering a guard dog role – how does the Peekapoo match up to that role?

Are there myths about the Peekapoo – in other words do new potential owners come to you with misconceptions about this breed?

We asked a number of breeders in the UK and America what essential advice they would give to new owners of Peekapoo puppies and this is what they said:

What types of questions do you get once owners get their Peekapoo home?

Can you tell us something most owners would not know – tips, secrets etc from your years of experience?

What is the typical temperament of a Peekapoo, so people know what to expect from their new pet?

When fully grown how much on average does a Peekapoo weigh?

When the Peekapoo is full grown in size what is the maximum height and length expected to be?

Is the Peekapoo ever crossed or mixed with other breeds of dog?

Does the Peekapoo smell or drool a lot?

Do you have a Peekapoo growth chart?

What breed group does the Peekapoo come under?

What type of coat do they have?

Can they swim?

What does the movement of the tail show, does it mean they are trying to ‘talk to us’ or give us some message?

Suitability

Are there some types of people that you can suggest the Peekapoo is not suitable for, perhaps families?

How is the Peekapoo with children?

Do you think the Peekapoo is suitable for families with young children?

How does the Peekapoo get along with other (existing) pets and do you have any tips or advice for new Peekapoo owners in terms of successful integration?

Is it better to buy one Peekapoo or two?

Should prospective new owners be aware of any differences between males and females?

Would the Peekapoo be suitable as a guard dog?

Can I leave my Peekapoo during the day while I go to work?

Lifespan

What is the expected average lifespan of the Peekapoo?

In terms of life expectancy, how long on average would the Peekapoo breed live to?

Food & Diet

Do you have any special feeding routines or diet?

Do you have any feeding advice or brands that you prefer?

How to handle the Peekapoo puppy to start off – how much food, what type, how often?

What feeding routines and types of food/supplements do you recommend?

What to buy in terms of equipment? Bowls etc

Do owners need to consider supplements for their Peekapoo?

How about for older dogs?

Buying – How Much Do They Cost?

How much did your Peekapoo cost to buy?

Can you offer advice to people looking to buy a Peekapoo and how much should they spend?

What advice would you offer new Peekapoo owners?

What types of people are buying the Peekapoo and why?

Where can I buy Peekapoo rescue dogs or find a Peekapoo for adoption? Please note that buying or searching for a ‘cheap’ Peekapoo can be false economy as they may have health issues that cost you far more in the long-term – always buy from a good and responsible breeder!

How much do Peekapoo puppies for sale cost on average?

Do I need public liability insurance or a license?

Puppy

How would you describe the Peekapoo puppy to potential new owners?

What types of owners are best suited to owning a Peekapoo?

What colors and sizes are most popular?

Are there things new owners do that perhaps frustrate you?

What can people expect when they become a new owner?

What inspired you to become a breeder and did you start with the Peekapoo?

As a Peekapoo breed expert, are there any ‘essential’ tips you would like to share with new owners?

Are there specific times of the year that you breed?

Choosing a puppy from a litter, what advice could you offer potential new owners in terms of selecting ‘the one’?

How long does it take to housetrain/potty train a Peekapoo?

When can you take them out in public and how do you handle them around other dogs?

Will they run off – when is it safe to let them off the lead?

We invite you to email us your Peekapoo’s pictures, in particular we are looking for photos showing Peekapoo puppies at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 weeks old as well as early pictures such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 months old to a year old.

Do they have any nicknames or does the Peekapoo have popular names?

If my Peekapoo is pregnant what might the litter size be?

Could the Peekapoo be dangerous around young children?

Problem Behaviors

How do you deal with a problem barker – any tips and advice to new owners?

How do you prevent a Peekapoo biting?

How do you prevent a Peekapoo chewing?

How do you stop a Peekapoo jumping up?

Does the Peekapoo have an issue with excessive digging?

Why does my Peekapoo keep growling and barking?

Is there a reason my Peekapoo dog is often scratching excessively?

Do they suffer from separation anxiety and how can I prevent this?

Exercise

In comparison perhaps to other breeds what can you say about the Peekapoo and their exercise needs and do you have any tips or advice for new Peekapoo owners?

As a breeder of the Peekapoo, do you prefer a collar or harness?

As an expert of the Peekapoo breed do you prefer a standard leash or retractable?

Can you offer any dog walking tips for Peekapoo owners?

Playtime & Tricks

What games and toys can you recommend for the Peekapoo?

Are there toys you suggest avoiding?

How intelligent is the Peekapoo compared to other dog breeds?

How much can they understand?

Grooming

Do you have any special grooming routines or tips and advice for new Peekapoo owners?

How much time is involved?

What accessories are required to be purchased for grooming a Peekapoo?

Any advice/tips you can give concerning maintenance of nails?

How much do Peekapoo shed and how do I maintain their hair and how often?

How can I prevent or cure ear infections?

Do you have any tips for eye care?

Is the Peekapoo a hypoallergenic breed?

Bathing

Any advice/tips you can give concerning cleaning and bathing your Peekapoo?

Can you offer new Peekapoo owners advice concerning fleas and maybe products you use in treatment and prevention?

Showing

What advice and tips could you offer to owners who might wish to follow your path in showing the Peekapoo?

What started your interest in showing the Peekapoo?

If a new owner perhaps wanted to meet other owners or find out more – perhaps they have an interest in joining a local club or maybe they wonder how they can start showing their Peekapoo – where would they begin?

Can you offer any advice to others who may be wondering if they can also start showing?

How would an owner know they have a show-quality Peekapoo and how would they start off?

Can you give away any of your secrets?!

Is showing very expensive and why do you think people like to do it?

What do judges look for in a winner?

Breeding

What inspired you to become a breeder and did you start with Peekapoos?

What official organisations are there for the new Peekapoo owner and what benefits or services do they provide?

In buying a Peekapoo, can you offer advice and tips to new owners?

How did you go from being an owner to getting into breeding?

Do you think the breed’s popularity has increased, decreased or remains the same?

How did you progress to becoming a breeder and why focus on breeding the Peekapoo out of all the breeds you could have chosen?

What do you think makes the Peekapoo special to you?

Are there things that you see owners doing that frustrate you?

As a breed expert, are there any ‘essential’ tips you would like to share with new owners?

Training

In comparison perhaps to other breeds what is it like to train a Peekapoo and do you have any tips or advice for new Peekapoo owners?

How should new owners approach bringing a new Peekapoo home, any advice and tips you can give?

Should I allow my Peekapoo to sleep in my bed or elsewhere in the house?

Do you recommend crate training and how long does this take?

Should my Peekapoo sleep in a kennel or crate?

Health

Health is always a major concern when buying a dog, do you have any advice for new Peekapoo owners to be aware of in particular?

Are there any health-related tips you can give to owners?

What sort of health issues should owners be on the lookout for?

What is the recommended schedule for vaccinations for your Peekapoo?

Can you offer any advice on how to treat and prevent worms?

What type of health issues can a Peekapoo have and how do you deal with preventing these?

Why does my Peekapoo have diarrhea?

Do they suffer from itchy and sensitive skin and if so why?

Why is my Peekapoo vomiting and do I go to the vets?

When should I take my Peekapoo for vaccinations and which ones do they need and how often?

How often will my Peekapoo be in heat?

Should I consider getting my Peekapoo spayed or neutered and when and how much does this cost and what are the benefits?

My Peekapoo is limping, what should I do and should I go to a veterinarian surgeon?

Do they suffer from allergies?

Why is my Peekapoo not eating?

How much does it cost to insure my Peekapoo?

What healthcare issues or diseases might be excluded from companies that provide Peekapoo dog health insurance?

Old Age

What age would you class as an ‘older or senior’ Peekapoo?

Do you notice any changes in their behaviour?

What changes in food and diet would you suggest making for an older Peekapoo?

Do you feed any supplements to an older Peekapoo – or anything else which helps them as they age?

Are there any health issues particular to a senior Peekapoo dog?

Do you have any advice for owners of an older/senior Peekapoo or tips you can pass on?

Here is a really nice video of Peekapoo puppies trying to learn some tricks!