Peke-Italian
Although Peke-Italians have garnered some attention among enthusiasts of hybrid dogs, they remain largely unfamiliar to the general public and are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. This charming breed is a delightful combination of two toy breeds: the Italian Greyhound and the Pekingese. Peke-Italians are known for their loyalty and vigilance, requiring only a small amount of exercise. They are also quite clever, often mastering tricks and commands with ease. These dogs come in various colors, typically weighing between 7 and 14 pounds and standing 10 to 15 inches tall. Many feature a brown coat accented by a striking black mask, which gives them a resemblance to a small German Shepherd.
Breed Origin
The Peke-Italian is an endearing hybrid that merges two cherished toy breeds, yet it remains unrecognized by the American Kennel Club. This delightful mix features the Pekingese and the Italian Greyhound. The Pekingese, one of its parent breeds, originates from ancient China and was historically esteemed for its ability to protect its owners' homes from malevolent spirits. While much of the Pekingese's history is obscured by incomplete breeding records, it is known that these dogs were introduced to the broader world in the mid-1800s. A significant moment in their history occurred when Dowager Empress Cixi, who effectively governed China in the 1860s, began gifting Pekingese to foreign officials and diplomats. This act facilitated the breed's introduction to Europe and North America, where they quickly became beloved pets. The American Kennel Club granted official recognition to the Pekingese in the United States in 1909, shortly after their arrival. The other parent of the Peke-Italian, the Italian Greyhound, has a lineage that traces back approximately 2000 years to the Mediterranean region, where it was a cherished companion for many generations. In the 16th century, traders from Western Europe brought these dogs to the United Kingdom, where they quickly gained popularity. However, following World War I, the Italian Greyhound faced a perilous decline in Britain. Thankfully, American breeders took on the responsibility of reviving the breed, successfully securing AKC recognition in the late 1880s.
Breed Appearance
The Peke-Italian is a charming hybrid of the Italian Greyhound and Pekingese, often reminiscent of a miniature German Shepherd. This petite breed showcases upright ears, slender legs, and a pointed snout complemented by a dark nose. Its eyes are dark and oval, while the paws are well-arched and cushioned for comfort. Typically weighing between 7 to 14 pounds and standing 10 to 12 inches tall at maturity, the Peke-Italian is both compact and delightful. They feature a soft, dense coat of medium length, which comes in a variety of color combinations that reflect traits from both parent breeds. The most common coloration is a deep brown with a striking black mask and markings, further enhancing their German Shepherd-like appearance. Additionally, they have a medium-length tail and a lively personality that captivates everyone they meet.
Care Routine
Peke-Italians feature medium-length, dense fur that sheds moderately, requiring weekly brushing and monthly baths to maintain their coat. They often have feathering on their ears, paws, and tails, which can be trimmed by owners or a professional groomer. Daily dental hygiene is crucial for these dogs, along with monthly nail trimming. Their upright ears are prone to wax and debris buildup, so regular inspections and cleaning are necessary to avoid infections or discomfort. Additionally, it's important to highlight that Peke-Italians are not hypoallergenic, making them a poor choice for allergy sufferers.
Behavior & Temperament
Peke-Italians, as a non-stabilized breed, can inherit a wide array of traits from their parent breeds. Typically, they are recognized for their loving yet somewhat anxious demeanor. These dogs develop strong attachments to their owners and are deeply bonded with family members. They are quite sensitive and thrive on a predictable daily routine. If their owners are unable to provide such stability, Peke-Italians may display moodiness or engage in destructive behaviors at home. Nevertheless, they make excellent lapdogs and travel companions, always eager to remain close to their humans. Their protective nature leads them to be cautious around strangers, often barking when they sense a potential threat. However, when they feel secure, Peke-Italians can be wonderful playmates for children and affectionate companions for both people and other dogs. In essence, these pups seek love and attention but also need a stable home environment to truly thrive.
Play & Exercise
Peke-Italians are a small breed known for their alertness and minimal exercise needs. A short daily walk or about 15 to 30 minutes of playtime indoors is all they require. These dogs also love to learn and perform tricks, which keeps their minds active. Much like Poodles, Italian Greyhound mixes are celebrated for their playful personalities. Their limited exercise demands and the fact that they don’t require a large yard make Peke-Italians perfect for apartment living or urban environments. Additionally, they adapt easily to different climates, making them low-maintenance pets.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
1.0 Cups
Daily Activity
20 Minutes
Average Lifespan
14 Years
Origin
Early 1900s
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Small
Origin Country
United States
Brush Frequency
Weekly
Coat Texture
Wavy
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Height & Weight
Weight
11 lbs (5 kg)Male: 11 lbs (5 kg) , Female: 11 lbs (5 kg)
Height
11 inches (28 sm)Male: 11 inches (28 sm) , Female: 11 inches (28 sm)
6 Months
4 lbs ( m 4 lbs, f 4 lbs )
7 inches ( m 7 inches, f 7 inches )
12 Months
9 lbs ( m 9 lbs, f 9 lbs )
7 inches ( m 7 inches, f 7 inches )
18 Months
10 lbs ( m 10 lbs, f 10 lbs )
11 inches ( m 11 inches, f 11 inches )
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Brown
Coat Colors
Gray
Brindle
Cream
Fawn
Black
Sable
Pied
White
Blue
Red
