Poochon dog breed featured image

The Poochon dog is a mixed breed created by crossing a Bichon Frise and a Poodle. 

Bichon Poodle and Bichpoo (the ch creates a sh sound) are a few cute names for this mix.

Most likely, you're not aware of the extraordinary skills and talents of these goofballs. 

We don’t want to waste your time reading this article only to realize that the Poochon is not for you at all.

That’s why we have summarized the advantages and disadvantages and some interesting information about this mixed breed.

It'll make it simple and quick for you to learn what the Poochon is like.

Additionally, you'll learn about this mixed breed's background, temperament, looks, lifespan, and health.

Here's a quick navigation:

Poochon History

Unknown in terms of its full history, the Bichon Frise Poodle Mix is a relatively recent designer breed. 

It is a component of the Poodle cross-breed dog fad known as the Doodles, but others claim the Labradoodle started the trend.

The Bichon Frise has a long history and was a favorite of the French nobility in the 14th century. 

These dogs were utilized as lapdogs and frequently accompanied their owners to social gatherings. 

On the other hand, the miniature and toy Poodles were developed in Germany and used as hunting dogs.

Due to its hypoallergenic coat, the Bichon Frise Poodle Mix has grown in popularity and is a fantastic option for those who suffer from allergies. 

No dog is totally hypoallergenic, though, as you can still have allergies to proteins in the saliva, skin, or urine. 

The sociable and affectionate nature of this breed makes it a wonderful family pet.

SUGGESTED READ: 8 Best Mixed-Breed Hypoallergenic Dogs

Poochon Personality

The great intellect of the Poodle means that training the Bichon Poodle should be simple.

However, let's be honest for a moment—no dog is perfect. Each breed has at least one characteristic we wish we could change.

For the Poochon, it’s their elevated anxiety level and fear of strange surroundings.

This comes from the Poodle side.

Therefore, if you don't socialize your Bichon Poodle mix when it's young, it can experience separation anxiety if left alone for a long time.

For this breed to reduce its biting, socialization with other dogs is also crucial.

Note: The Bichpoo can show moments of mild aggression around unfamiliar dogs.

But let's also discuss the positive qualities and characteristics that make this mixed breed endearing.

This cute dog would make a wonderful addition to either a large family or a one-person home.

So long as you play with them, anyone can be a Bichpoo's best friend!

Be sure to give this little furball your whole attention and time.

Poochon dog breed

Poochon Appearance

The Bichon Frise Poodle cross looks like a teddy bear with a curly coat and a cute face.

The type of coat will vary depending on which parent the puppy acquires it from.

For instance, the coat from the Poodle parent can be single-layered and shaped like a ball.

Or it could be a powder 

The most common coat colors of Poochon are:

  • Blue 
  • Black
  • White
  • Apricot

Like the parent Poodle, they have long ears that hang close to their cheeks.

Usually of medium length, its tail can be draped over the back or slightly arched upward.

They don't get very big because they are a toy breed.

They typically weigh between 6 and 18 lbs. and stand between 9 and 15 inches tall.

They are also convenient to handle and carry because of their small stature, which adds to their attractiveness as family pets.

Their compact stature also makes them easy to transport and handle, adding to their appeal as family companions.

Typically, men are larger than females.

Poochon Grooming

Poochon dogs don't shed much and can be extremely hypoallergenic, particularly when they have adequate grooming every 3 to 4 days.

They are little, so grooming them shouldn't be a problem.

To avoid hair tangling and matting, clipping is required every 6 to 8 weeks.

Regular and frequent clipping keeps the coat shorter, making it easier to groom.

Due to their fluffy and curly coats, poochon dogs quickly accumulate dirt. 

Regular washing is advised in this case.

Note:  If left untreated, dirt buildup around the eyes and ears can be particularly troublesome and offer an infection risk.

Brushing should be done daily or more frequently for Poochon dogs with longer hair.

Bichon Poodle

Poochon Exercise

Poochon dogs, as previously said, are lovable goofballs who like getting as much exercise as possible.

The simplest method is to put on their harness and stroll them.

We advise taking your Poochon for an outdoor walk, preferably without a leash, but only in areas where it's appropriate.

Keep them on a lead so they don't chase anything that runs or flies by them in public areas.

Open spaces like gardens are a must if you can’t get out at least once a day for a reasonable length 30 to 45-minute walk.

If you can't get outside at least once a day for an appropriate duration 30- to 45-minute walk, open areas like gardens are a need.

If your Poochon is by your side, he will happily accompany you!

Poochon Training

The Poochon dog's parents are both renowned for their wit and intellect.

Bichpoos are certainly not an exception. They are very easily trained!

They have eager personalities, are quick learners, and enjoy mental challenges.

This enables them to perform more demanding duties like agility and obedience training.

Socializing and training a Poochon puppy on a leash should be simple.

Leash training and socializing a Poochon puppy should be an easy task.

They are amiable, obedient, and laid-back dogs.

They like meeting new people and traveling to new places!

Poochons are very close to their human friends.

They can become destructive when left alone for an extended period of time and are occasionally prone to separation anxiety as a result.

To help them become used to being alone occasionally, we advise leaving them alone for brief intervals during the day.

RELEVANT READ: Dog Agility Competition: Pros and Cons

Poochon Feeding

Poochons typically don't have picky eating habits and thrive on a dry meal or kibble diet.

Make sure they consume food that is specially formulated for little dogs.

A reliable pet store will often stock a wide range of better-quality products.

Higher-quality formulations are those that use actual meat as the primary ingredient and are produced with healthy ingredients.

The ideal diet for your dog would consist of just one source of protein, followed by the healthy fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals required for optimal health.

Their dietary needs fluctuate as they mature from puppies to adults.

It's best to follow your vet's advice regarding Fido's daily caloric needs. 

Even little treats can add up!

RELATED: Let's Talk: How Many Calories A Dog Needs Per Day?

Toy Poodle & Bichon Frise Mix

5 Facts About the Poochon Dog

1. Prone to Allergies

Even though Poochons are best suited for people with allergies, they are not immune to coat and skin issues.

Pollens, particular foods, environmental factors, dust mites, and flea and tick bites are a few examples of common allergy triggers.

So, as soon as you see a flare-up, take your furbaby to the vet.

2. Expensive

Unsurprisingly, the average price of buying a pedigree dog is more than that of a non-pedigree dog.

However, some hybrid crossings, such as Poochons, defy the rule.

Compared to other tiny pedigree dog breeds, the typical cost of buying this small puppy is more.

3. Less-shedding coats

Yes, there is yet another reason Poochons make wonderful apartment dogs.

They mix the elegant coat of the Bichon Frise with the less-shedding, hypoallergenic traits of Poodles.

They won't also trigger any allergies because you won't discover much of their loose hair and dander lying around your home.

4. 20-40 minutes of daily exercise

These clever and active canines require 20 to 40 minutes of exercise each day.

These goofballs need both mental and physical exercise to develop into content, well-rounded Poochon adults.

Fortunately, they can simply walk about the backyard of your kitchen and burn off some steam.

5. Love Swimming

Poochon dogs enjoy drinking water just as much as they enjoy swimming, especially in hot weather.

However, you must watch out that they don't stray too close to perilous waterways.

When the water is too deep for them, they could drown.

SUGGESTED READ: 8 Water and Swimming Dangers and Safety Tips for Dog Owners

Poochon Common Health Problems

Poochon dogs are generally healthier than their pedigree ancestors, though they can inherit health issues from either parent.

They’re vulnerable to some conditions, including:

Poochons are also prone to allergies to grooming supplies, including the ingredients in shampoos.

Even common pollutants like pollen, fleas, and dust mites, as well as seasonal allergies.

As soon as you observe symptoms related to any chemical, we advise you to take Fido to the vet.

Make sure to buy the puppy from a reliable breeder to guarantee that your Poochon is as healthy as possible.

RELATED: Spring Allergy in Dogs: Signs, Treatment & Prevention

Poochon Lifespan

Poochons typically live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, activity, and no serious health issues.

When dogs from different generations are frequently bred together, the range maze reveals huge variations.

Remember that you may extend your dog's general health and lifespan by giving them love, care, and essential medical attention.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Poochon

Pros  Cons
The Bichpoo is a healthy dog with a life expectancy of up to 16 years.

The Bichpoo dog is a fantastic choice for apartment dwellers because it doesn't need a lot of space.

As long as they receive the care they require, the Poochon breed may fit into any family and household.

You can teach these intelligent goofballs to solve puzzles and perform other activities.

The Bichpoo is a petite breed with a long lifespan, but there are a few health concerns to be aware of.

If you anticipate spending a lot of time away from home, keep in mind that some of these dogs can develop separation anxiety.

Some Poochons have loud, high-pitched barks.

Poochon dogs tend to herd, nip, chew, or playbite people. 

Bichpoo

Poochon Dog Breed: FAQs

Is a Poochon a good dog?

Yes, the Poochon is a terrific family dog with a strong sociable character.

They would significantly enhance multi-pet households because they enjoy being around people and other animals.

Your Bichpoo will be a devoted friend to everyone—adults, kids, and complete strangers.

Can a Poochon be left alone?

Poochons are prone to separation anxiety, and they don't handle being left alone very well. They might even get anxious and destructive.

If someone won't be able to stay at home with them the majority of the time, a Poochon might not be the best dog for you.

RELEVANT READ: Destructive Chewing: Why Dogs Love to Gnaw and How to Stop This

Why do Poochons bark so much?

Due to their keen hearing, poochon dogs may bark a little bit more than is required.

They also enjoy the sound of their little voices a little too much, so excessive barking may become a problem for your dog in the future.

However, most owners can reduce their dogs' barking with training and plenty of stimulation.

Is a Poochon a smart dog?

Like the parent breeds, Poochons are extremely smart and trainable. 

They pick up habits, whether good or bad, really fast, so they should be trained from when they are young.

Positive training approaches like clicker training, tasty treats, and other food-based rewards are well received by them.

Poochon Dog Breed: In a Nutshell

Poochons are so devoted, friendly, and affectionate that it's impossible not to adore them.

So, if you're a first-time dog owner, they can also make wonderful furry friends. They get along well with both families and kids. 

But because of their friendly nature, they, too, require companionship to be content.

If they are left alone for a long time, they start to exhibit negative behaviors and separation anxiety.

Therefore, be careful to schedule time with them for walks and playtime. 

They become less energetic as they get older, and they feel more at ease being left alone during the day.

Having to refuse your dog treats while they are trying to convince you with their puppy eyes is perhaps the hardest part of owning a Bichpoo.

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How Aubrey describes love is a wet nose and a happy tail. She now has over a year of experience writing about canines with a particular emphasis on health and behavior. She enjoys sharing dog tips, fun facts, and pet med topics, among other things. Her passion for both writing and dogs inspired her to share her knowledge and experience with other dog parents so they could provide the greatest care for their pets. She also stands against alpha, leader, and dominance theories. She believes there’s no need to do extra things like eating prior to your dogs.