Pekingese Pom Mix: Complete Guide to the Peke-A-Pom Designer Dog
Everything about the Pekingese Pom mix: size, temperament, coat types, health risks, grooming needs, and costs for this Pomeranian-Pekingese cross.
What Is a Pekingese Pom Mix?
The Pekingese Pom mix — most commonly called the Peke-A-Pom — is a designer cross between a purebred Pekingese and a purebred Pomeranian. Both parent breeds belong to the toy group and share ancient spitz-type ancestry, which gives this mix a somewhat more predictable outcome than crosses between vastly different breeds. Still, as with any mixed breed, individual puppies can vary significantly in appearance, coat texture, and personality.
These dogs typically weigh between 5 and 14 pounds (2.3–6.4 kg) and stand 6 to 11 inches (15–28 cm) at the shoulder. Their compact size, alert expression, and profuse coat make them appealing to apartment dwellers and experienced toy-breed owners alike. But don't let the small stature fool you — both parent breeds carry strong-willed temperaments that require patient, positive-reinforcement training from day one.
- Parent Breeds: Pekingese × Pomeranian
- Weight Range: 5–14 lb (2.3–6.4 kg)
- Height Range: 6–11 in (15–28 cm)
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Coat: Long, double coat; moderate to heavy shedding
- Energy Level: Low to moderate (20–40 min daily exercise)
- AKC Recognition: Not recognized (designer cross); parents AKC-registered
Parent Breed Breakdown: Pekingese and Pomeranian
Understanding the Peke-A-Pom starts with understanding its foundation breeds. Both are toy-sized companions with centuries of history as lap dogs and status symbols, but they differ in meaningful ways that influence what a mixed puppy might inherit.
| Trait | Pekingese | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient China (imperial courts) | Pomerania region (Germany/Poland), descended from larger spitz |
| AKC Weight Standard | Up to 14 lb (6.4 kg) | 3–7 lb (1.4–3.2 kg) |
| Height | 6–9 in (15–23 cm) | 6–7 in (15–18 cm) |
| Coat | Long, straight, profuse mane; heavy undercoat | Double coat, harsh outer, soft under; stands off body |
| Muzzle | Extremely short (brachycephalic) | Short to moderate (mesocephalic-leaning) |
| Temperament | Dignified, aloof with strangers, stubborn | Bold, extroverted, vocal, curious |
| Shedding | Heavy seasonal, moderate year-round | Heavy seasonal blows, moderate year-round |
| Trainability | Low — independent thinker | Moderate — smart but willful |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 12–16 years |
The AKC Pekingese standard describes a dog that is "regal and dignified," while the AKC Pomeranian standard calls for a "lively and bold" companion. A Peke-A-Pom puppy may land anywhere on this spectrum — some inherit the Pomeranian's outgoing confidence, while others lean toward the Pekingese's reserved independence.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, and Beyond
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Pekingese parent × one purebred Pomeranian parent. Maximum genetic diversity for this cross. Traits are most variable — puppies in the same litter can look dramatically different.
- F1B (Backcross): An F1 Peke-A-Pom bred back to one of the parent breeds (usually a Pomeranian to reduce brachycephalic risk). Slightly more predictable traits leaning toward the backcross breed.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Peke-A-Poms bred together. Trait variation widens again due to gene recombination. Some puppies may strongly resemble one grandparent breed.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Peke-A-Pom × Peke-A-Pom breeding. Rare for this specific mix — most breeders produce F1 litters. Multigen lines offer the most trait consistency but require a large, established breeding program.
Most Peke-A-Poms you'll encounter are F1 crosses. Because this isn't a high-volume designer breed like the Goldendoodle or Labradoodle, established multigen lines are uncommon. If a breeder advertises F1B or multigen Peke-A-Poms, ask for documentation of parentage and health testing on every dog in the pedigree.
Size, Coat, and Appearance: What to Expect
Size in a Pekingese Pom mix is one of the more predictable traits, simply because both parents are toy breeds with overlapping weight ranges. However, the Pomeranian's smaller frame (3–7 lb) versus the Pekingese's stockier build (up to 14 lb) means siblings in a single F1 litter can differ by several pounds at maturity.
| Category | Weight | Height at Shoulder |
|---|---|---|
| Small end (Pom-dominant) | 5–8 lb (2.3–3.6 kg) | 6–8 in (15–20 cm) |
| Average | 7–11 lb (3.2–5.0 kg) | 7–10 in (18–25 cm) |
| Large end (Peke-dominant) | 10–14 lb (4.5–6.4 kg) | 9–11 in (23–28 cm) |
Coat Type Possibilities
Both parent breeds carry double coats with dense undercoats, so a Peke-A-Pom will almost certainly have a double coat as well. The variation lies in texture and length:
- Pom-influenced coat: Fluffy, stands off the body, harsh outer guard hairs with a soft undercoat. Requires brushing 3–4 times per week.
- Peke-influenced coat: Longer, straighter, silkier with a pronounced mane and feathering on the legs and tail. Requires daily brushing to prevent mats.
- Blended coat: Medium length, moderate stand-off, with some mane development. Most common in F1 puppies. Brush 3–5 times per week.
Is the Peke-A-Pom Hypoallergenic?
No. Neither the Pekingese nor the Pomeranian is a low-shedding or hypoallergenic breed. Both shed moderately year-round and experience heavy seasonal "coat blows" (typically spring and fall) where the undercoat releases in large quantities. If you have dog allergies, this mix is not a suitable choice. Allergen exposure comes from dander and saliva proteins (primarily Can f 1 and Can f 2), and heavy-shedding double-coated breeds distribute these allergens liberally through the home environment.
Temperament Range: Best Case and Challenging Scenarios
Temperament is where the Peke-A-Pom's mixed heritage creates the widest variability. Here's the realistic range based on the behavioral profiles of both parent breeds:
- Alert and playful without excessive barking
- Affectionate with family members
- Moderately friendly with strangers after brief warm-up
- Content with short walks and indoor play
- Responsive to positive-reinforcement training with food motivation
- Good with respectful older children (ages 10+)
- Stubborn and resistant to housetraining (common in both parent breeds)
- Excessive barking or alarm-barking at every sound
- Resource guarding of food, toys, or favorite people
- Snappish with small children who handle them roughly
- Separation distress when left alone more than 4–5 hours
- Difficulty socializing with larger dogs (small-dog syndrome)
The Pekingese contributes an independent, sometimes aloof personality — these dogs were bred to be companions to Chinese emperors and don't instinctively look to humans for direction. The Pomeranian adds extroversion and vocalization. A Peke-A-Pom that inherits the Pom's boldness and the Peke's stubbornness can be a confident, opinionated little dog who requires consistent, reward-based training from puppyhood.
Training recommendation: Use high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small cheese pieces) and keep sessions under 5 minutes. Both parent breeds have short attention spans for repetitive drills. Force-free methods like clicker training and capturing work far better than any corrective approach — toy breeds shut down quickly under pressure.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
Let's address a common misconception: hybrid vigor does not eliminate health risks in designer crosses. The concept of heterosis (hybrid vigor) applies primarily to traits controlled by many genes, such as overall vitality and fertility. It does not protect against inherited conditions that both parent breeds share. Since the Pekingese and Pomeranian overlap on several genetic vulnerabilities, a Peke-A-Pom can inherit any of them.
| Condition | Source Breed(s) | Prevalence | Screening Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Pekingese (primary) | High in Pekes; variable in mix | Veterinary airway exam, functional breathing assessment |
| Luxating Patella | Both | Common in toy breeds (~7–10% estimated) | Orthopedic exam; OFA patella evaluation |
| Tracheal Collapse | Pomeranian (primary) | Up to 20–30% in Poms by middle age | Radiographs, fluoroscopy, or endoscopy |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Both | Low-moderate; breed-line dependent | DNA test (Optigen or equivalent); CERF eye exam |
| Dental Disease (overcrowding, early loss) | Both (brachycephalic jaw) | Very high — most toy breeds by age 3 | Annual veterinary dental exam |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Pekingese (long-backed) | Moderate in Pekes; lower in Poms | Neurological exam; MRI if symptomatic |
| Hip Dysplasia | Both (low prevalence) | Low but documented in both breeds | OFA or PennHIP evaluation |
Brachycephalic Risk: A Critical Variable
The degree of muzzle shortness in a Peke-A-Pom is one of the most consequential health variables. Puppies that inherit the Pekingese's extremely flat face may develop brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), a condition defined by narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, and a hypoplastic trachea. Symptoms include noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, and sleep apnea.
Puppies that inherit the Pomeranian's slightly longer muzzle tend to breathe more easily. When evaluating a litter, look for puppies with visible nostril openings (not pinched slits) and observe them during play — persistent snorting or wheezing in a young puppy warrants a veterinary airway assessment.
Seek emergency care if your Peke-A-Pom exhibits any of the following:
- Blue or gray gums/tongue (cyanosis) — indicates oxygen deprivation
- Labored breathing with abdominal effort
- Collapsing or fainting during exercise or excitement
- Honking cough that worsens with pressure on the neck (tracheal collapse sign)
- Sudden hind-limb weakness or paralysis (possible IVDD)
For toxic ingestion emergencies, contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Preventive Health Checklist
Work with your veterinarian to establish a screening schedule. Here's a recommended framework:
- 8–12 weeks: Initial wellness exam, first DHPP vaccine, deworming
- 6 months: Patella check, dental baseline, spay/neuter discussion
- 1 year: Annual wellness, dental cleaning assessment, eye exam (CERF)
- 2–3 years: Patella re-check, tracheal evaluation if coughing present
- 5+ years: Biannual wellness, cardiac auscultation, dental cleaning under anesthesia as needed
- Annually: Professional dental cleaning (toy breeds often need annual cleanings starting by age 2–3)
Grooming Needs for a Peke-A-Pom
Regardless of which parent's coat a Peke-A-Pom inherits, grooming is a significant time commitment. Plan for 20–40 minutes of brushing per session, three to five times per week, plus professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
Home Grooming Essentials
- Slicker brush: For removing loose undercoat and preventing mats (a medium-firm pin slicker works best for double coats)
- Steel comb (greyhound comb): For working through tangles after slicker brushing, especially behind ears, under front legs, and around the hindquarters
- Detangling spray: Apply before brushing to reduce breakage — look for silicone-free formulas designed for dogs
- Nail clippers or grinder: Trim every 2–3 weeks; toy breeds often have fast-growing nails relative to their foot size
- Dental care: Daily tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste (VOHC-accepted products preferred). Dental disease is the number-one health issue in toy breeds by age three.
Professional Grooming
Budget $50–$90 per grooming session depending on your region and coat condition. Many Peke-A-Pom owners opt for a "puppy cut" or "teddy bear trim" that shortens the coat to 1–2 inches, dramatically reducing home maintenance. This is purely cosmetic — never shave a double-coated dog down to the skin, as this damages the coat's insulating structure and can lead to permanent alopecia (post-clipping alopecia is documented in spitz-type breeds).
Cost: Purchase Price, Annual Care, and Where to Find One
| Expense Category | Low Range | Mid Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (breeder) | $500 | $800–$1,200 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Adoption/rescue fee | $150 | $250–$400 | $500 |
| First-year veterinary care | $600 | $900–$1,200 | $1,800+ |
| Annual veterinary care (years 2+) | $500 | $700–$1,000 | $1,500+ |
| Grooming (annual, professional) | $300 | $400–$600 | $800+ |
| Food (high-quality small-breed kibble or wet) | $180 | $250–$350 | $500+ |
| Pet insurance (monthly) | $25 | $35–$50 | $70+ |
Breeder vs. Rescue
Responsible breeders of Peke-A-Poms will health-test both parent dogs — at minimum, OFA patella evaluations, CERF eye exams, and a cardiac exam. They should provide a written health guarantee (minimum 1 year), a take-back clause requiring the dog be returned to them if you can no longer keep it, and documentation of early socialization (ideally following Puppy Culture or Avidog protocols). Expect to pay $800–$1,500 for a health-tested F1 puppy.
Rescue and adoption is a viable path, though Peke-A-Poms specifically are uncommon in shelters. Check Pomeranian rescue organizations (such as those listed through the AKC Rescue Network) and Pekingese rescue groups — mixed-breed dogs from these breeds occasionally enter foster care. Small-breed rescue organizations in your region are also worth contacting.
Avoid: Online marketplaces listing "Peke-A-Pom puppies for sale" at prices below $500 with no health testing documentation. These are typically backyard breeders or brokers sourcing from puppy mills. A low price almost always means the parents were not screened for patellas, eyes, or cardiac health — and you'll pay the difference in veterinary bills within the first two years.
Who Is the Peke-A-Pom Best Suited For?
- Living situation: Apartment or condo dwellers; homes without large yards. These dogs get sufficient exercise from short walks and indoor play.
- Experience level: Intermediate to experienced owners who understand toy-breed challenges (fragility, dental care, housetraining difficulty). First-time owners can succeed but should invest in puppy classes.
- Family composition: Adults-only households or families with children aged 10+. Toddlers and young children can accidentally injure a 7-pound dog through rough handling.
- Time at home: People who work from home or have flexible schedules. Peke-A-Poms form strong attachments and are prone to separation distress if left alone for 8+ hours daily.
- Grooming tolerance: Owners willing to commit to regular brushing and professional grooming. If you want a wash-and-wear dog, this is not the right match.
- Climate: Cooler or moderate climates. Brachycephalic-leaning individuals are heat-sensitive and should never be exercised in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
This mix is not ideal for households with very young children, people who work long hours away from home, those seeking a jogging or hiking companion, or anyone unwilling to manage daily grooming and regular dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Peke-A-Pom?
The Peke-A-Pom is a cross between a Pekingese and a Pomeranian. Both are AKC-recognized toy breeds with ancient origins — the Pekingese from Chinese imperial courts and the Pomeranian from the spitz-type dogs of northeastern Europe.
How big will a Pekingese Pom mix get?
Most Peke-A-Poms weigh between 5 and 14 pounds (2.3–6.4 kg) and stand 6 to 11 inches (15–28 cm) tall. The exact size depends on which parent breed the puppy takes after more strongly. Ask the breeder for the parents' weights to estimate your puppy's adult size range.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect an alert, affectionate companion who is loyal to family but may be reserved or wary with strangers. The Pomeranian side tends to add playfulness and vocalization, while the Pekingese side contributes independence and stubbornness. Early socialization (starting before 16 weeks) and consistent positive-reinforcement training are essential for a well-adjusted adult.
Is the Pekingese Pom mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No. Both parent breeds are moderate to heavy shedders with double coats. A Peke-A-Pom will shed year-round and experience seasonal coat blows. This mix is not suitable for people with dog allergies.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
Key concerns include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), luxating patella, tracheal collapse, dental disease, progressive retinal atrophy, and intervertebral disc disease. Work with your veterinarian to establish a screening schedule, and only purchase from breeders who health-test both parent dogs. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-specific health guidance tailored to your individual dog.
How much does a Peke-A-Pom cost?
Expect to pay $500–$2,500 from a breeder, with health-tested puppies from responsible breeders typically in the $800–$1,500 range. Adoption through a rescue organization typically costs $150–$500. First-year care (vet visits, vaccines, spay/neuter, supplies, grooming) adds approximately $1,500–$3,000 on top of the purchase price.
Can Peke-A-Poms be left alone during the day?
Most Peke-A-Poms tolerate being alone for 3–5 hours if properly crate-trained and exercised beforehand. Beyond that, separation distress behaviors (barking, destructive chewing, inappropriate elimination) become likely. Doggy daycare or a midday dog walker is recommended for owners who work standard 8-hour days.
The information in this guide is for educational purposes. Always consult your veterinarian for health, nutrition, and behavioral guidance specific to your dog.
Marcus Aldridge
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
