Pekingese and Poodle Mix: Complete Peekapoo Breed Guide
Everything about the Pekingese and Poodle mix (Peekapoo): size, coat, temperament, health risks, grooming needs, and 2026 pricing.
What Is a Pekingese and Poodle Mix?
The Pekingese and Poodle mix — widely known as the Peekapoo — is one of the oldest designer crossbreeds in the United States, first intentionally bred in the 1950s. The goal was to combine the Pekingese's loyal, dignified companionship with the Poodle's intelligence and lower-shedding coat. The result is a small, affectionate dog that typically weighs between 4 and 20 pounds (1.8–9 kg) and stands 8 to 12 inches (20–30 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Unlike some designer breeds that exploded in popularity overnight, the Peekapoo has maintained a steady but modest following. The American Kennel Club does not recognize the Peekapoo as a registered breed, but it is listed by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC). Because it's a crossbreed, every individual dog can look and behave quite differently — even puppies from the same litter.
Understanding Peekapoo Generations
F1 (First Generation): 50% Pekingese × 50% Poodle. The most genetically diverse pairing, but also the most unpredictable in coat type, size, and temperament.
F1B (Backcross): An F1 Peekapoo bred back to a Poodle (75% Poodle, 25% Pekingese). Breeders do this to increase the chance of a low-shedding, curlier coat. More predictable in appearance.
F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Peekapoos bred together. This produces the widest trait variation — some puppies will look very Poodle-like, others very Pekingese-like.
Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Peekapoo-to-Pekapoo breeding. Rare for this mix, as most breeders continue to cross the parent breeds rather than establish a multigen line. When it does exist, traits become somewhat more consistent, though never guaranteed.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Pekingese vs. Poodle
To understand what you might get in a Pekingese and Poodle mix, you need to know the two dogs behind it. These parent breeds are remarkably different in origin, build, and disposition — which is exactly why the mix can vary so dramatically.
| Trait | Pekingese | Miniature/Toy Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient China (royalty companion) | Germany/France (water retriever turned companion) |
| AKC Weight Standard | Up to 14 lb (6.4 kg) | Toy: 4–6 lb (1.8–2.7 kg); Miniature: 10–15 lb (4.5–6.8 kg) |
| Height | 6–9 in (15–23 cm) | Toy: ≤10 in (25 cm); Miniature: 10–15 in (25–38 cm) |
| Coat | Long, double, straight — heavy shedding | Curly, single, dense — low-shedding |
| Temperament | Independent, dignified, loyal to one person | Highly intelligent, eager, social, trainable |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 10–18 years |
| Trainability | Stubborn; responds to patience | Exceptional; ranks #2 in canine intelligence (Stanley Coren) |
| Brachycephalic? | Yes (flat-faced) | No |
Most Peekapoos are bred using Miniature or Toy Poodles, not Standard Poodles, to keep the size manageable. The choice of Poodle size directly affects how large the offspring will be — a detail many first-time buyers overlook.
How Big Will a Pekingese and Poodle Mix Get?
Size is one of the most variable traits in this cross, and it depends heavily on which Poodle variety was used and which generation the puppy comes from.
| Poodle Parent | Expected Weight Range | Expected Height Range |
|---|---|---|
| Toy Poodle (4–6 lb) | 4–10 lb (1.8–4.5 kg) | 8–10 in (20–25 cm) |
| Miniature Poodle (10–15 lb) | 8–20 lb (3.6–9 kg) | 9–12 in (23–30 cm) |
Practical tip: Ask the breeder for the exact weight of both parents. A reasonable estimate for an F1 puppy's adult weight is the average of the two parents' weights, ±15%. If a 12 lb Miniature Poodle and a 10 lb Pekingese are the parents, expect puppies in the 8–14 lb range at maturity.
Weight alone doesn't tell the full story. Pekingese are heavily boned and low to the ground, while Poodles are leggier and more lightly built. Your Peekapoo may inherit the Pekingese's stocky frame with shorter legs, the Poodle's proportional build, or something in between. Body Condition Score (BCS) monitoring is essential — these small dogs gain weight easily, and even 2 extra pounds on a 12 lb dog represents a significant health burden.
Coat Types, Shedding, and the Hypoallergenic Question
This is where the Pekingese and Poodle mix becomes genuinely unpredictable. The two parent breeds have fundamentally different coat genetics, and a first-generation cross is essentially a coin flip.
| Coat Outcome | Genetics | Shedding Level | Most Likely In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curly/wavy, single coat | Inherited Poodle's dominant curl gene | Low (hair-like, not fur) | F1B (backcrossed to Poodle) |
| Straight, double coat | Inherited Pekingese coat genes | Moderate to high | F1 or F2 |
| Wavy, mixed texture | Combination of both | Low to moderate | F1, multigen |
Is the Peekapoo hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic — allergic reactions are triggered by dander, saliva, and urine proteins, not hair itself. However, Peekapoos that inherit the Poodle's curly, single-layer coat produce less airborne dander and shed minimally, making them more tolerable for some allergy sufferers. F1B Peekapoos (backcrossed to a Poodle) offer the best odds of a low-shedding coat, but there are never guarantees with a crossbreed.
Grooming Requirements by Coat Type
Curly/wavy coat (Poodle-dominant): Brush 3–4 times per week with a slicker brush and metal comb to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($50–$85 per session in 2026). Bath every 3–4 weeks. Regular ear cleaning — Poodle-type ears trap moisture and are prone to yeast infections.
Straight, double coat (Pekingese-dominant): Daily brushing during shedding seasons (spring and fall), 3–4 times per week otherwise. Pay special attention to the feathering on legs, ears, and the tail. Less frequent professional grooming needed, but more vacuuming at home.
Regardless of coat type: Trim nails every 2–3 weeks, brush teeth daily or at minimum 3 times per week (small breeds are extremely prone to periodontal disease — the AVMA estimates 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age 3), and clean facial folds daily if the dog inherits the Pekingese's flatter face.
Temperament: What to Expect (and What Might Surprise You)
The Pekingese and Poodle mix can land anywhere on a wide behavioral spectrum. Here's an honest look at the range.
Best-Case Scenario
A well-socialized Peekapoo inherits the Poodle's intelligence and trainability combined with the Pekingese's deep loyalty and calm indoor demeanor. The result is an alert, responsive companion who learns tricks quickly, bonds closely with their family, and settles nicely on the couch. They tend to be good with respectful older children and adapt well to apartment living.
Challenging Scenario
Some Peekapoos inherit the Pekingese's strong-willed independence and wariness of strangers without the Poodle's social adaptability. This can manifest as stubbornness during training, barking at visitors, resource guarding of their favorite person, or resistance to handling. Early socialization is non-negotiable — puppies need exposure to diverse people, environments, sounds, and gentle handling between 8 and 16 weeks of age to reduce these tendencies.
Temperament Traits to Prepare For
- Vocalization: Moderate to high. Both parent breeds will alert-bark. Teach a "quiet" cue early using positive reinforcement — reward silence after one or two barks rather than yelling (which the dog interprets as you joining in).
- Separation anxiety risk: Moderate. These dogs bond intensely and do not do well left alone for 8+ hours daily. Consider a dog walker, daycare, or gradual alone-time training.
- Prey drive: Low to moderate. The Poodle's retrieving heritage may surface as interest in squirrels or small animals, but this is typically manageable with leash training.
- Child compatibility: Best with children aged 8+ who understand how to interact gently with small dogs. Toddlers can accidentally injure a 10 lb dog by picking them up incorrectly or stepping on them.
- Other pets: Generally good with other dogs if socialized early. Cat compatibility varies — introduce slowly and supervise.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality
Let's address a persistent myth: "hybrid vigor" does not eliminate health problems. While crossbreeding can reduce the risk of recessive genetic conditions that are concentrated within a single breed's gene pool, a Pekingese and Poodle mix can still inherit any condition that affects either parent breed. The health advantage is real but modest — it reduces probability, it doesn't create immunity.
Conditions Inherited From the Pekingese Side
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): If the Peekapoo inherits a shortened muzzle, they may have narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, or a narrowed trachea. Signs include snoring, snorting, exercise intolerance, and heat sensitivity. Severity ranges from mild to surgically correctable. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides detailed owner guidance on this condition.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): The Pekingese's long back and short legs predispose to disc herniation. Avoid letting the dog jump on/off high furniture — use ramps. Signs include sudden back pain, reluctance to move, hind limb weakness, or paralysis.
- Patellar Luxation: Kneecap slipping out of place, common in many small breeds. Grades I–II may be managed conservatively; grades III–IV often require surgery ($1,500–$3,500 per knee).
- Eye conditions: Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and cataracts. Flat-faced dogs are also prone to corneal ulcers due to prominent eyes.
Conditions Inherited From the Poodle Side
- Hip Dysplasia: Less common in Toy/Miniature Poodles than Standards, but still possible. Ask the breeder for OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) hip scores on the Poodle parent.
- Addison's Disease (hypoadrenocorticism): Poodles are overrepresented for this autoimmune adrenal condition. Signs include vomiting, lethargy, weight loss, and collapse during stress. Manageable with lifelong medication ($30–$80/month).
- Epilepsy: Idiopathic (cause unknown) epilepsy appears in Poodle lines. Seizures typically begin between 6 months and 5 years of age. Anti-seizure medications like phenobarbital or levetiracetam are effective for most dogs.
- Dental Disease: Both parent breeds — and small dogs in general — are highly prone to early periodontal disease. Budget for professional dental cleanings under anesthesia every 1–2 years ($400–$800 per cleaning in 2026).
Lifespan: A healthy Pekingese and Poodle mix typically lives 12–15 years, with some reaching 16 or 17. Smaller dogs generally outlive larger ones, and the Toy Poodle's exceptional longevity (often 15+ years) can positively influence this mix.
How Much Does a Pekingese and Poodle Mix Cost?
Peekapoos are not as commercially hyped as Goldendoodles or Labradoodles, which keeps prices somewhat more reasonable — but costs still vary significantly by breeder quality and location.
| Source | Price Range (2026) | What's Typically Included |
|---|---|---|
| Reputable breeder (health-tested parents) | $1,200–$3,000 | Health guarantees, first vaccinations, deworming, microchip, early socialization, take-back clause |
| Backyard/casual breeder | $500–$1,000 | Usually minimal health screening, basic vet check |
| Rescue/shelter adoption | $150–$400 | Spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, behavioral assessment |
First-year budget estimate: Beyond the purchase price, plan for $1,800–$3,200 in the first year covering spay/neuter ($300–$700), initial vet exams and vaccinations ($250–$500), professional grooming ($400–$700/year), quality food ($250–$450/year), crate, leash, harness, toys, and pet insurance ($35–$65/month for a comprehensive plan).
Rescue availability: Peekapoos do appear in breed-specific Poodle rescues and general small-dog rescues. Check organizations like NorCal Poodle Rescue, Doodle Rescue Collective, and local shelters. Adult Peekapoos in rescue may come with known temperaments and health histories, which removes some of the predictability guesswork.
Who Is the Peekapoo Best Suited For?
Quick Fit Assessment
- Do you live in an apartment or small home? → Yes: Great fit. Peekapoos adapt well to compact spaces with daily walks.
- Are you home most of the day or work from home? → Yes: Ideal. These dogs struggle with long alone time. No: Arrange midday visits or daycare.
- Do you have young children under age 6? → A small, fragile dog may not be the best match. Consider waiting or choosing a sturdier breed.
- Are you a first-time dog owner? → Yes: Manageable, but be prepared for potential Pekingese-style stubbornness. Enroll in a positive reinforcement puppy class (6-week courses run $150–$250).
- Do you have moderate dog allergies? → Seek an F1B Peekapoo (backcrossed to Poodle) and spend time with the specific puppy before committing. No guarantees.
- Do you want a hiking/running partner? → No. These are companion dogs with moderate exercise needs, not athletic performers. A 20–30 minute daily walk plus indoor play is sufficient.
Exercise Needs
Plan for 30–45 minutes of daily activity, split between a leash walk and indoor play. Peekapoos enjoy puzzle toys, short training sessions, and gentle fetch. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather — especially if the dog inherits a brachycephalic (flat) face. Temperatures above 80°F (27°C) can be dangerous for flat-faced dogs; walk in early morning or evening and always carry water.
Training Approach
Use positive reinforcement methods exclusively — reward-based training with treats, praise, and play. The Poodle side of this mix responds beautifully to clicker training and learns quickly. The Pekingese side may require more patience and shorter training sessions (5–10 minutes, 2–3 times daily works better than one long session). Never use shock collars, prong collars, or alpha rolls — these methods damage trust and can worsen fear-based behaviors in sensitive small dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Peekapoo?
The Peekapoo is a cross between a Pekingese and a Poodle — typically a Toy or Miniature Poodle, not a Standard Poodle. This keeps the resulting mix in the small-dog category.
How big will my Pekingese and Poodle mix get?
Most Peekapoos fall in the 4–20 lb (1.8–9 kg) range and stand 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) tall. The exact size depends on which Poodle size was used and which parent's genes are more dominant. Ask the breeder for parent weights for a more accurate estimate.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect a loyal, alert companion who bonds closely with their family. Intelligence from the Poodle side makes them trainable, but Pekingese independence can add stubbornness. Early socialization (8–16 weeks) and consistent positive reinforcement training are essential for the best outcome.
Is the Pekingese and Poodle mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. However, Peekapoos that inherit the Poodle's curly coat shed minimally and may be more tolerable for allergy sufferers. F1B generations (backcrossed to a Poodle) offer the highest likelihood of a low-shedding coat, but individual results vary.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
Key concerns include brachycephalic airway syndrome (if flat-faced), IVDD (disc disease), patellar luxation (knee problems), dental disease, eye conditions, and from the Poodle side, Addison's disease and epilepsy. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-appropriate health screening and establish a preventive care plan from puppyhood.
How much does a Pekingese and Poodle mix cost?
Expect to pay $1,200–$3,000 from a reputable breeder who health-tests both parents. Rescue adoptions range from $150–$400. First-year total costs including supplies, vet care, and grooming typically run $1,800–$3,200 beyond the purchase price.
Are Peekapoos good with children?
They do best with children aged 8 and older who can interact gently. Their small size makes them fragile — a toddler could accidentally injure them. Always supervise interactions between any dog and young children.
How long do Peekapoos live?
The typical lifespan is 12–15 years, with some living to 16 or 17. Regular veterinary care, dental hygiene, weight management, and appropriate exercise all contribute to longevity.
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
