What Do Peke-a-Poo Dogs Look Like?

A cross between a Pekingese and a poodle, the peek-a-poo looks a little like both breeds. Although poodles come in toy, miniature or standard sizes, only the first two sizes are used for crossing with the Pekingese to create toy or miniature peek-a-poos. Because they're not a purebred dog, there's not a particular look that automatically identifies the peek-a-poo. However, cuteness is an important factor.

  1. The Poodle

    • Toy and miniature poodles are tough little dogs underneath that frou-frou canine hair. Exceptionally smart, these dogs were originally bred as retrievers. Many of them still possess a strong prey drive. Toy poodles stand under 10 inches at maturity, while the miniature is between 10 and 15 inches in height. Poodle shades include white, black, apricot, gray, cream and silver, but they are always solid-colored. Active and alert, they require a fair amount of exercise for small dogs.

    The Pekingese

    • Originally from China, as its name implies, the Pekingese is a brachycephalic breed. Brachycephalic means "short head," and the Peke has a pushed-in face. That facial structure can mean breathing difficulties and exercise intolerance -- although the Pekingese isn't the most athletic dog. When choosing a peek-a-poo puppy, take the facial shape into consideration to avoid potential problems. Because of the Pekingese's inherited nasal issues, that longer snout is one feature that favors the poodle. At maturity, Pekingese weigh less than 14 pounds. Their long coats require regular grooming. Most Pekes are red or gold, but black, cream and other colors are permissible.

    The Peek-a-poo

    • Your peek-a-poo could have a curly, non-shedding coat like his poodle parent, or a straight, longer one favoring the Pekingese side of the family. When full-grown, he weighs between 8 to 20 pounds, standing between 8 and 15 inches high at the shoulder. Peek-a-poos can be solid-coated or- multicolored. Certain people with allergies to dogs can tolerate poodles because they don't shed, but that might not be true of the peek-a-poo. No matter which breed he most resembles, the peek-a-poo should have an alert face, according to Vetstreet.com.

    Personality

    • Since both parent breeds make good watchdogs, your peek-a-poo should share that genetic heritage, even if he can only sound the alarm rather than contribute much in the way of protection. While most peek-a-poos have good temperaments, the Pekingese aren't known for being particularly friendly. Genes aside, much depends on the upbringing and socialization of your particular dog. Give him love, gentle discipline and training, and you should enjoy the company of a great dog for 12 to 15 years.