Pekapoo

The Pekapoo is a mix of Pekingese and Poodle.

The Pekapoo is not a purebred dog, it is simply a mixture of two purebred dogs. Many breeders will claim that you are getting the best of both breeds- however the truth is that it is unknown of what you will get. Most of the breeders of these dogs do not do any health testing prior to breeding- this means that they are unsure of any genetic problems that their dogs will pass on to the puppies. Some illnesses, such as progressive retinal atropy (PRA) doesn't even show up until the dog is about 7 years old. This means that if the breeding dogs are not checked for this, all the offspring may carry this, and become blind around 7 years of age.

It is extremely important that the dogs are health tested prior to breeding- this is true with purebred and those who crossbreed. Sadly, a great deal of those who are doing the crossbreeding are only doing this for the money, and don't want to put any money into testing to assure healthy dogs. I'm not stating that none of those who crossbreed do not test, there are some who do the proper testing, and they also care very much about where their puppies are going to. It is very important that you screen any breeder before purchasing your next pet.

If you already have your mind made up that you want a Pekapoo, please be sure to:
� Contact your local humane society. Many times they will have puppies or very young adults.

� Contact a Pekingese and/or Poodle rescue group.
These groups not only rescue purebred dogs, but also dogs mixed with their breed. It is very likely you will be able to get one there and save a life.

� Check the breeder out.
Don't let price be your deciding factor when getting a dog. Ask about health testing, temperaments of their dogs, and see if you can meet some of their dogs. If a breeder does the proper health testing, paying a little more for the dog is in your best interest- pay a little more now, pay less vet bills later.