Peekapoo Breed Maintenance
Proper Peekapoo grooming and maintenance are crucial for keeping your pup healthy, happy, and looking their best. Given their unique coat characteristics and potential health issues inherited from their Pekingese and Poodle lineage, Peekapoos require a dedicated routine that addresses all aspects of their care.
With the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat in their genetic makeup, this can range from curly to slightly wavy. To prevent matting and tangles, it's essential to brush their coat several times a week. This frequent brushing helps to distribute natural skin oils, which keeps their coat shiny and healthy.
Depending on the coat's length and texture, professional grooming may also be a good idea every couple of months to trim the hair and maintain a manageable length.
While occasional baths are necessary to keep the Peekapoo clean, it’s important not to over-bathe this breed to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils. Using a mild dog shampoo will protect their skin from drying out and prevent irritation.
Dental health is a significant concern for Peekapoos, particularly because the Pekingese can be prone to dental issues. Regular dental check-ups and daily toothbrushing are recommended to prevent tartar buildup, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Establishing a routine of dental hygiene from a young age can help prevent many common dental issues later in their life.
Regular nail trimming is essential to avoid overgrowth and cracking, which can lead to pain and mobility issues for your Peekapoo. Because they’re small and less likely to wear down their nails naturally, they may need their nails trimmed more frequently than larger breeds.
Ear care is also vital, especially for Peekapoos with floppy ears, which can be prone to buildup of dirt and wax. Regular cleaning of the ears is necessary to prevent infections, which are common in breeds with covered ears. Gentle cleaning with a vet-approved solution can help maintain ear health and prevent complications.
Maintaining a routine for parasite control is another critical aspect of any dog’s care. Regular checks for fleas and ticks, along with preventive treatments, are necessary to keep these common pests at bay. Your dog’s vet can recommend appropriate flea and tick prevention products tailored to your pup’s specific needs and environment.
Peekapoo health
Most pups encounter some kind of health problem at one point or another during their lifetime. The most common types of health concerns Peekapoos are prone to are:
- Respiratory issues
- Eye problems
- Hip dysplasia
Respiratory issues
Peekapoos can inherit brachycephalic syndrome from their Pekingese ancestors. This condition is characteristic of dogs with short noses and flat faces, which can lead to breathing difficulties. Symptoms can include anything from noisy breathing to snoring and, in severe cases, complete airway obstruction.
Managing this condition often involves maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding overheated environments, and potentially surgical intervention to widen narrow airways. Regular veterinary check-ups are also crucial in monitoring and addressing any respiratory challenges faced by Peekapoos.
Eye problems
This mixed breed is susceptible to several types of eye problems, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Cataracts can cause cloudiness in the lens of the eye, leading to decreased vision and possible blindness if untreated. PRA, on the other hand, is a genetic disorder that gradually deteriorates the retina, potentially resulting in total blindness.
Early detection through routine eye examinations can help manage these conditions, with treatments ranging from medication to surgery for cataracts, and adaptive strategies for managing PRA.
Hip dysplasia
Although more commonly associated with larger breeds, Peekapoos can also be prone to hip dysplasia. This genetic malformation occurs when the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, which can lead to arthritis or other mobility issues.
Signs of hip dysplasia in Peekapoos include difficulty getting up, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and noticeable discomfort during or after exercise. Managing hip dysplasia typically involves a combination of weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe cases, surgical options like hip replacement. Regular vet visits are also essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
What could be more important as a pet owner than making sure your Peekapoo’s health is taken care of? Consider a wellness plan to help manage your furry friend’s wellness — the right care and regular check-ups can greatly improve your dog’s quality of life. Check out our wellness plans and find the right one for your pup today.
What to feed a Peekapoo
Choosing the right dog food is no easy task. This fun-loving breed requires a balanced diet tailored to their specific age, size, and activity level. Proper nutrition is key to supporting their overall health, energy levels, and quality of life.
For Peekapoo puppies, it's important to provide high-quality puppy food that supports their growth and development needs during their crucial early months. Puppy-specific formulas are enriched with essential nutrients like DHA for brain development and calcium for strong bones, which are vital for their rapid growth phase.
Once Peekapoos reach adulthood, the dietary focus should shift towards maintaining their health and vitality. Adult Peekapoos should be fed a well-balanced diet designed for small breed dogs, divided into two meals — this helps prevent overeating and maintains their ideal weight.
Active Peekapoos, especially those who participate in dog sports or have high energy levels, may require additional calories and protein to meet their energy demands. On the other hand, senior dogs, who tend to be less active, might need fewer calories to avoid weight gain but still require high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass and overall health.
Like other dog breeds, Peekapoos can be prone to obesity, so it's crucial to manage their portion sizes and avoid free-feeding. Measure out their food to ensure they're not consuming more calories than they need. You may choose between high-quality commercial foods or home-prepared diets, but if you opt for homemade meals, it's smart to consult with a veterinarian first to make sure your dog’s diet is nutritionally complete.
Adding supplements such as omega fatty acids can support skin and coat health, while glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial for joint health, especially important as Peekapoos grow older. Top tip! Always discuss any supplements with your vet before starting them, just to ensure they're appropriate for your dog’s specific health needs.
For more information on choosing the right dog food and understanding nutritional labels, check out our partners at Dog Food Advisor — they provide reviews and ratings on a variety of dog food brands!
