Pekepoo

The Pekepoo is a cross between the Pekingese and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Pekepoo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Pekingese

Pekingese

The Pekingese is a compact toy breed with a distinctive lion-like appearance that has made them recognizable throughout their ancient history. These small but surprisingly sturdy dogs typically stand between six and nine inches at the shoulder and should weigh no more than fourteen pounds, though they often feel heavier than expected due to their stocky, muscular build. The breed features a broad, flat skull with a characteristic flat face where the chin, nose, and brow all align on the same plane when viewed in profile. Their large, dark, prominent eyes are set wide apart and convey a bold, confident expression, while their heart-shaped ears lie flat against the sides of their massive head. The Pekingese possesses a luxurious double coat that stands out as one of their most striking features. The undercoat is thick, soft, and dense, while the outer coat is long, straight, and somewhat coarse in texture. The coat is longest around the neck and shoulders, creating the magnificent mane that gives the breed its lion-like appearance. Long feathering adorns the backs of the legs, toes, and ears, while the tail carries a spectacular plume of flowing hair that arches over the back. The breed standard permits all colors and markings, with common variations including red, gold, sable, cream, white, black, and black-and-tan. A distinctive characteristic of the Pekingese is their rolling, dignified gait, which results from their unique body structure. They have a broad chest with front legs set wide apart, while the rear legs are positioned closer together, contributing to their characteristic movement. The breed's brachycephalic facial structure includes a wrinkled muzzle with a distinctive V-shaped fold of skin between the eyes and nose. Their flat face features a wide, open nose that should allow for adequate breathing, though this remains a concern in extremely flat-faced specimens. The overall impression is one of compact strength, ancient dignity, and unmistakable character.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Pekingese are generally affectionate with family members but tend to be reserved and somewhat suspicious of strangers until proper introductions are made. They tolerate gentle older children but are not ideal for households with young children who might handle them roughly, as Pekingese may become snappy if frightened or mishandled. The breed can develop separation anxiety and does best in homes where someone is present for most of the day. Early socialization is essential to prevent excessive wariness of unfamiliar people and dogs. While they enjoy moderate activity and playtime, Pekingese are equally content serving as dignified lap warmers and loyal companions.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Dental disease affects Pekingese at high rates due to their small mouths and crowded teeth, making regular dental care essential. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slides out of position, is another common orthopedic concern in the breed. Heart murmurs may develop in older Pekingese and require monitoring. Intervertebral disc disease can occur due to their long backs relative to their short legs. The breed typically enjoys a lifespan of twelve to fifteen years when properly cared for. Working with reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and maintaining regular veterinary care helps ensure the best outcomes for these ancient and beloved companions.
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Poodle

Poodle

The Poodle is a distinguished breed that comes in three recognized size varieties, each sharing the same elegant proportions and distinctive curly coat. Standard Poodles stand over fifteen inches at the shoulder and typically weigh between forty and seventy pounds, presenting an athletic, well-muscled build. Miniature Poodles measure between ten and fifteen inches tall and weigh approximately ten to twenty pounds, while Toy Poodles stand under ten inches and weigh between five and ten pounds. Regardless of size, all Poodles should display a square outline when properly groomed, with the length from breastbone to hindquarters approximately equal to the height at the shoulder. The Poodle's most distinctive feature is their dense, curly coat, which consists of a single layer of hair rather than fur. This unique coat texture produces minimal shedding and is often considered more suitable for allergy sufferers, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. The hair grows continuously and requires regular grooming every four to six weeks to prevent matting and maintain coat health. Poodles appear in a remarkable array of solid colors including white, black, brown, apricot, red, cream, silver, blue, gray, and cafe au lait. Parti-colored, phantom, and abstract patterns also occur, though solid colors are preferred in the show ring. Beneath their elaborate coat, Poodles possess an elegant, refined structure that reflects their original development as water retrievers. Their head is moderately rounded with a long, straight muzzle and a defined stop between skull and muzzle. Dark, oval-shaped eyes convey an alert, intelligent expression. The ears are set at or slightly below eye level and hang close to the head, covered with wavy, long hair. The neck is long and graceful, flowing into well-laid-back shoulders. Their tail is typically docked and carried high, though natural tails are increasingly common. The breed moves with a light, springy, effortless gait that showcases their athletic nature.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament can vary somewhat between size varieties, with some general tendencies observed. Standard Poodles tend to be the most calm and stable, though still active and playful. Toy and Miniature Poodles may be more excitable and can become more reactive or nervous without proper socialization and training. Smaller varieties may also display more timidity around strangers or in new situations. All Poodles benefit from early socialization to develop confidence and prevent excessive shyness. The breed makes excellent watchdogs and will alert their families to visitors, though they are not typically aggressive. Without sufficient exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, Poodles may develop nuisance barking or other problematic behaviors.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, poses a life-threatening risk primarily for Standard Poodles due to their deep chests. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists, requiring immediate emergency veterinary care. Toy and Miniature Poodles face different orthopedic concerns, including luxating patella and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a condition affecting the hip joint in small breeds. Epilepsy occurs in the breed and may require management with medication. Dental problems are common across all sizes due to crowded teeth in smaller mouths, making regular dental care important. Von Willebrand disease, a bleeding disorder, has been identified in the breed as well. Regular veterinary checkups and health screening of breeding dogs help maintain the overall health of this popular breed.
Learn More About The Poodle

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Pekepoo may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Pekingese and Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.