Bichon Frise Poodle Mix, also known as Bich-Poo or Poochon, is a designer dog breed that has gained popularity in recent years. This crossbreed is a result of breeding a Bichon Frise with a Poodle, resulting in a small, adorable, and hypoallergenic dog that is perfect for families.
One of the most notable features of the Bich-Poo is their tendency to develop tear stains around their eyes. This can lead to infections if not properly taken care of. Therefore, it is essential to use gentle dog eye-cleaning wipes to keep their eyes free from infection and maintain their overall health.
If you are considering bringing a Bich-Poo into your family, it is important to know everything you need to know about this breed. We consulted Candace Darnforth’s Complete Guide to Poochons to help you understand the breed’s temperament, exercise needs, grooming requirements, and health issues. It can also help you find reputable breeders and avoid puppy mills when searching for “Poochon Puppies for sale near me.”
So, What Is The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix?
The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix, also known as the Bichpoo or Poochon, is a lovable and friendly designer dog breed that is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a Poodle. This breed is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club and International Designer Canine Registry. However, it is not an official purebred dog recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Bichpoos are small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 6 to 18 pounds and standing at 9 to 15 inches tall. They have curly or wavy coats that can be white, cream, apricot, or gray in color. Their coats are hypoallergenic and low-shedding, making them an excellent choice for people with allergies.
Bichpoos are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them great family pets. They are intelligent, easy to train, and love to please their owners. They also get along well with children and other pets, making them a great addition to any household.
Bichon Frise Poodle Mix Overview
The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix, also known as the Bichpoo or Poochon, is a popular designer dog breed that has gained popularity in recent years. This breed is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a miniature or toy Poodle, resulting in a small, fluffy, and hypoallergenic dog.
Origins of the Poochon
The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix is a relatively new designer breed that is quite rare and does not have a complete history. However, it is part of the Doodle craze of Poodle mix breed dogs that arguably began with the Labradoodle.
The history of the Bichon Frise dates back to the 14th century, where they were popular among the French aristocracy. These dogs were used as lapdogs and were often seen accompanying their owners to social events. The miniature and toy Poodle, on the other hand, originated in Germany and were used as hunting dogs.
The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix has gained popularity due to its hypoallergenic coat, which makes it an excellent choice for people with allergies. However, keep in mind, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, as you can still be allergic to proteins in the saliva, skin, or urine. This breed is also known for its friendly and affectionate personality, making it a great family pet.
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What Does the Bich-Poo Look Like?
The Bich-poo, also known as Poochon, is a designer dog breed that results from breeding a Bichon Frise and a Poodle. This breed is known for its cute and fluffy appearance, making it a popular choice as a companion dog.
How Big Does the Bichon Frise Poodle Mix Get?
The Bich-poo is a small dog breed that usually weighs between 6 to 16 pounds and stands between 9 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. The size of the Bich-poo can vary depending on the size of the parent breeds, specifically if the Poodle parent was teacup, toy, or miniature Poodle.
Coat & Colors
The coat of the Bich-poo is usually soft, curly, and fluffy, similar to both the Bichon Frise and the Poodle. This breed is known for its hypoallergenic coat, which makes it a great option for people with allergies. The coat can come in a variety of colors, including white, black, apricot, cream, and gray.
These dogs are often white, cream, lemon, or apricot. But they may come in any color, including blue, black, chocolate or red. Some are bi or parti-colored and occasionally, you may even find a merle Poochon if the Poodle Parent carried a merle gene.
Common Health Issues In Poochons
The Bichon Frise Poodle mix is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues they can inherit from their parent breeds. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential health problems and take appropriate measures to prevent or treat them.
Dental Problems
Dental problems are common in the Bichon Frise Poodle mix, as they have small mouths and crowded teeth. This can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential to maintain good oral health.
Obesity
The Bichon Frise Poodle mix is prone to obesity, especially if they are overfed or do not get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to a variety of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a common health issue in the Bichon Frise Poodle mix, especially as they get older. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy. Treatment typically involves insulin injections and dietary changes.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can affect the Bichon Frise Poodle mix. Symptoms include seizures, loss of consciousness, and muscle spasms. Treatment typically involves medication to control seizures.
Heart Problems
The Bichon Frise Poodle mix is prone to heart problems, including mitral valve disease and congestive heart failure. Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. Treatment may involve medication and lifestyle changes.
Cancers
Cancer is a common health issue in the Bichon Frise Poodle mix, especially as they get older. Common types of cancer include lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Eye Problems
The Bichon Frise Poodle mix is prone to eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy. Symptoms include cloudiness, redness, and vision loss. Treatment may involve medication or surgery.
Luxating Patellas
Luxating patellas, or kneecaps that move out of place, are a common health issue in the Bichon Frise Poodle mix. Symptoms include limping, difficulty walking, and pain. Treatment may involve medication or surgery.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a hip disorder that can affect the Bichon Frise Poodle mix. Symptoms include limping, pain, and reduced mobility. Treatment may involve medication or surgery.
Allergies
The Bichon Frise Poodle mix is prone to allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and flea allergies. Symptoms include itching, redness, and skin irritation. Treatment may involve medication or changes in diet or environment.
How Long Does the Bichon Frise Poodle Mix Live?
The Bichon Frise Poodle mix has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care and attention to their health, they can live longer.
Poochon Temperament
The Poochon is a hybrid breed that is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This breed is known for its friendly and affectionate temperament, making it an excellent family pet.
Poochons are known for being intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners. They are also very social and love to be around people, making them a great companion for families with children. However, they can get snappy if they are not well socialized.
One of the most notable characteristics of the Poochon is their playful nature. They love to play and are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war. However, they are also content to just cuddle up with their owners and relax. They also do not like to be left alone for long hours and can be prone to separation anxiety, which can sometimes lead to excessive barking and other problems.
Poochons are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They thrive on attention and love to be with their families. They are very affectionate and will often follow their owners around the house, seeking out attention and affection. These dogs make excellent therapy and emotional support dogs, however, they can sometimes be prone to anxiety.
They are quite active for their size and need plenty of activity to stay mentally stimulated.
Overall, the Poochon is a friendly, affectionate, and playful breed that is well-suited for families with children or first-time dog owners. With their intelligence and easy-going nature, they make great companions and are sure to bring joy and happiness to any household.
Care and Maintenance
Grooming
Bichon Frise Poodle Mixes, also known as Bich-Poos, require regular grooming to maintain their fluffy and curly coats. These dogs are high-maintenance in the grooming department and need to be brushed daily to prevent matting and tangling. A slicker brush and metal comb are recommended for grooming a Bich-Poo. Regular grooming also helps to distribute natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it healthy and shiny.
Bich-Poos should be bathed every 4-6 weeks, or as needed. Using a high-quality dog shampoo, such as the 5-in-1 detangling Dog Wash, can help keep their coat clean, soft, and shiny. It is important to avoid getting water in their ears during bathing, as this can lead to ear infections. Using dog ear cleaning wipes, such as the ones from Pawsafe, can help keep their ears clean and healthy.
To maintain good oral hygiene, it is recommended to use a dog mouthwash, such as the one from Pawsafe, to eliminate odors and plaque build-up. Additionally, regular nail trimming with a pet nail clipper, such as the one from Pawsafe, is necessary to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Also See our article on how often to trim dog nails.
Exercise Requirements
Bich-Poos are active dogs that require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy short walks, playtime in the yard, and interactive games with their owners. It is important to provide them with enough exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. AIm for at least 30 minutes of activity a day, adjusting for their age, size, and health.
Dietary Needs
Bich-Poos require a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. High-quality dog food, with a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, is recommended. It is important to avoid overfeeding and to monitor their weight to prevent obesity.
Training a Bichon Frise Poodle Mix
Training a Bichon Frise Poodle Mix is an important part of owning this breed. These dogs are intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, they can be stubborn and excitable at times, so consistency and patience are key.
Here are some tips for training a Bichon Frise Poodle Mix:
Start Early
It’s important to start training your Bichon Frise Poodle Mix as early as possible. Begin with basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise to encourage good behavior. It’s a good idea to start with a puppy obedience class to get your Poochon off to a good start. This is particularly vital as many small dog owners tend to neglect their dog’s training.
Also see:
When does a puppy become a dog?
Socialization
Socialization is crucial for Bichon Frise Poodle Mix puppies. Expose them to different people, animals, and environments to help them become well-rounded and confident dogs. This will also help prevent behavioral issues such as fearfulness and aggression.
Consistency
Consistency is key when training a Bichon Frise Poodle Mix. Use the same commands and techniques every time to avoid confusion. Be patient and don’t give up if progress is slow. These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement, so be sure to praise good behavior.
Crate Training
Crate training is a useful tool for Bichon Frise Poodle Mix owners. It can help with potty training and provide a safe space for your dog when you’re not home. Make sure the crate is the right size for your dog and always use positive reinforcement when introducing them to it.
Obedience Classes
Enrolling your Bichon Frise Poodle Mix in obedience classes can be a great way to improve their training and socialization. These classes provide structured training and socialization opportunities with other dogs and people.
Overall, training a Bichon Frise Poodle Mix requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. With the right approach, these dogs can be well-behaved and obedient companions.
Ideal Living Conditions For Poochon – Are They Right For You?
The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix is a small dog that can thrive in apartments, condos, and small homes. They are adaptable and can adjust well to living in different environments. However, they do require some specific living conditions to ensure their health and happiness.
Space Requirements
Even though they are small, Bichon Frise Poodle Mixes are energetic dogs that require enough space to move around and play. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, so it’s important to have enough room for them to run and play. A small backyard or a nearby park is ideal for their exercise needs.
Climate
Bichon Frise Poodle Mixes are sensitive to extreme temperatures. They don’t tolerate heat very well, so they need a cool environment to live in. They also don’t do well in cold weather, so it’s important to keep them warm during the winter months. A temperature-controlled home is ideal for their comfort.
Socialization
Bichon Frise Poodle Mixes are social dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. They thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and affection from their owners. They also enjoy playing with other dogs, so it’s important to socialize them early on.
Grooming
Bichon Frise Poodle Mixes have a curly coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and tangle-free. They need to be brushed at least once a week, and they require regular visits to the groomer for haircuts and nail trims. It’s important to keep their coat clean and free of mats to prevent skin irritations and infections.
In summary, Bichon Frise Poodle Mixes are adaptable dogs that can live in different environments. However, they require specific living conditions to ensure their health and happiness. They need enough space to move around and play, a cool environment to live in, socialization with people and other animals, and regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free.
Where to Get a Bichon Frise Poodle Mix
If you’re interested in getting a Bichon Frise Poodle mix, also known as a Bichpoo or Poochon, there are two main options: adoption or breeding. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to carefully consider which option is right for you.
Adoption
Adopting a Bichpoo is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. There are many animal shelters and rescue organizations that have Bichpoos available for adoption. Some advantages of adoption include:
- You’re giving a dog a second chance at a happy life.
- Adoption fees are usually much lower than the cost of purchasing a puppy from a breeder.
- Many rescue dogs are already trained and socialized, making them easier to integrate into your home.
However, there are also some potential downsides to adoption. For example:
- You may not know the dog’s full history, including any health or behavioral issues.
- It can be difficult to find a Bichpoo available for adoption in your area.
- You may not be able to find a Bichpoo that meets all of your specific preferences.
We highly suggest that you consider adopting a Poochon rather than getting one from a breeder. Of course, ethical breeders exist, but they can be hard to find and identify. Some great places to look for a Bichpoo to adopt include:
- Bichon Rescues – Focused on the Bichon Frise breed but may have Poochons or similar mixes.
- Poodle and Pooch Rescue – Specializes in rescuing Poodles and Poodle mixes, which may include Poochons.
- Bichon Rescue of Orange County – Primarily rescues Bichon Frises but may also have Bichon mixes like Poochons.
- iDog Rescue – Specializes in Doodles, which can include Poodle mixes like Poochons.
- Doodle Rock Rescue – Primarily focuses on Doodles, which can include Poodle and Bichon mixes like Poochons.
Each organization has its own adoption process, fees, and location, so you may want to explore each website for details. Adopting a pet is a wonderful decision that can bring a lot of joy and love into your life while providing a loving home to a dog in need.
Breeding
If you decide to purchase a Bichpoo from a breeder, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Some advantages of breeding include:
- You can choose a puppy that meets your specific preferences for appearance and temperament.
- You’ll have a better idea of the dog’s health history and genetic background.
- You’ll have the opportunity to form a close bond with your puppy from a young age.
However, there are also some potential downsides to breeding. For example:
- The cost of purchasing a puppy from a breeder can be much higher than adoption fees.
- There is a risk of supporting unethical breeding practices if you don’t choose a reputable breeder.
- It can be difficult to find a breeder that has Bichpoos available.
In conclusion, whether you choose adoption or breeding, it’s important to carefully consider your options and choose the best fit for you and your family.
Perfect Poochon Name Suggestions
Naming a new pet is an exciting and important task.if you’re struggling to name your Bichpoo puppy, here are some great names for your consideration.
| Category | Names |
| Male Names | Max, Oliver, Charlie, Teddy, Finn, Louie, Winston, Jasper, Cody, Sammy |
| Female Names | Bella, Daisy, Lily, Zoe, Rosie, Ruby, Molly, Sadie, Lola, Mia |
| Gender-Neutral Names | Riley, Casey, Jordan, Bailey, Alex, Taylor, Morgan, Quinn, Sky, Harper |
| Playful or Unique Names | Paws, Chewie, Bubbles, Snickers, Tofu, Pippin, Nimbus, Sushi, Sparky, Mochi |
| Cute Names | Cupcake, Button, Tinker, Pebbles, Smudge, Squirt, Puddles, Wiggles, Twinkle, Snuggles |
| Appearance or Personality | Fluffy, Patches, Snowball, Curly, Whiskers, Spots, Doodle, Fuzzy, Sassy, Pawsome |
Is the Bichon Poodle Mix Suitable with Children and Other Animals?
The Bichon Poodle mix, also known as the Bichpoo or Poochon, is a crossbreed between a Bichon Frise and a Poodle. They are known for their loving and friendly nature, making them a great addition to any family. But, are they suitable with children and other animals?
The Bichpoo is a great choice for families with children. They are friendly and playful, and they love to be around people. They are also gentle and patient, which makes them a great companion for children of all ages. However, it is important to supervise young children around any dog, including the Bichpoo, to ensure that they are treating the dog with respect.
When it comes to other animals, the Bichpoo is generally friendly and gets along well with other pets. They are not aggressive and are usually happy to share their space with other dogs and cats. However, it is important to introduce them to other animals slowly and carefully, as with any dog, to ensure that they get along well.
Overall, the Bichpoo is a great choice for families with children and other pets. They are friendly, playful, and loving, and they make great companions for people of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a Poochon puppy cost?
What are some common health problems for Bichon Poodle mixes?
What is the name for the Bichon Poodle mix?
Are Bichon Poodle mixes hypoallergenic?
Do Bichon Frise Poodles shed?
Do Bichon Poodle mixes bark a lot?
Final Thoughts
The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix, also known as the Poochon or Bichpoo, is a lovable and intelligent dog breed that makes a great companion for families and individuals alike. This breed is known for its hypoallergenic coat, which makes it an excellent choice for people with allergies.
The Poochon is a small dog that typically weighs between 10 and 20 pounds, making it a great choice for those who live in apartments or smaller homes. They are also known for their friendly and playful personalities, which make them great with children and other pets.
When it comes to grooming, the Poochon requires regular brushing and occasional grooming to keep their coat looking its best. They are also prone to dental issues, so regular teeth cleaning is important to keep their teeth healthy.
Overall, the Bichon Frise Poodle Mix is a great choice for those looking for a small, friendly, and hypoallergenic dog breed. With proper care and attention, they can make a wonderful addition to any family.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.