The Bichon Poodle mix, fondly known as the Poochon or Bichpoo, is a delightful designer breed that combines the playful charm of the Bichon Frise with the intelligence of the Poodle.
This small yet energetic pup has gained popularity for its affectionate nature, low-shedding coat, and suitability for families, singles, and seniors alike. If you’re looking for a cuddly and trainable companion, the Poochon might be the perfect fit for you.
Poochon Summary Table
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Toy to Small |
| Height | 9 to 15 inches (23 to 38 cm) |
| Weight | 6 to 17 pounds (3 to 8 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10 to 18 years |
| Coat Type | Long, wavy or curly coat |
| Colors | White, Cream, Apricot, Tan, Black (rarer), Multi-color blends |
| Temperament | Friendly, affectionate, intelligent |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | 1 hour daily |
| Shedding | Low |
| Average Price | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Trainability | Highly trainable, eager to please |
| Best For | Families, singles, seniors, allergy sufferers |
Breed Origin
The Bichon Poodle mix originated in the late 1990s when breeders sought to combine Bichon Frise and the Poodle’s best qualities to create a small, hypoallergenic companion dog. A combination of these two breeds resulted in a charming, intelligent, and allergy-friendly companion. Their toy to small size makes them ideal for apartment living, yet they are energetic enough to enjoy an active lifestyle.
Because of their affectionate nature, they do well in households where they are given enough attention and interaction. Over time, the Poochon has gained popularity among families, seniors, and singles looking for a low-shedding, friendly pet. Today, they are considered one of the most sought-after designer dog breeds.
Meet the Parents
To better understand the Poochon, it’s helpful to learn more about its parent breeds: the Bichon Frise and the Poodle.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, affectionate small breed with a history dating back to Mediterranean traders who brought them to Europe. These dogs were favored by French nobility and became known for their fluffy white coats, friendly temperament, and adaptability. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. Their hypoallergenic coat and moderate energy levels are also well-suited for various living situations.
Poodle
The Poodle, which was originally bred as a water retriever, is one of the most intelligent dog breeds. Available in Toy Poodle, Miniature, and Standard Poodle sizes, the Miniature Poodle is most commonly used in creating Poochons. Poodles are highly trainable, affectionate, and hypoallergenic, making them an ideal breed for allergy sufferers. Their curly coats require regular grooming, but their intelligence and loyalty make them fantastic family pets.
By combining the Bichon Frise’s playful nature and the Poodle’s intelligence, the Poochon inherits the best traits of both breeds, resulting in an affectionate, trainable, and hypoallergenic companion.
Breed Appearance
Poochons are toy to small dogs with a sturdy build, long, wavy or curly coats, and expressive dark eyes. Their faces often showcase an adorable teddy bear-like appearance. As a result of their mixed heritage, their coats may be either soft waves or tighter curls, and this makes them irresistibly fluffy.
Their ears are floppy, and they have slightly curved tails, giving them an elegant yet playful look. Their toy to small size makes them easy to carry, and they adapt well to various living environments. They are also known for their gentle expressions, which adds to their irresistible charm and appeal.
Coat Colors and Size
Poochons come in a variety of colors, including:
- White
- Cream
- Apricot
- Tan
- Black (rarer)
- Multi-color blends
They can inherit solid coats or unique patterns depending on their lineage. Some Poochons may also have small patches of white mixed into their coats. Additionally, their coat colors may slightly change as they mature, often lightening with age.
When it comes to size, these miniature poodles stand between 9-15 inches tall with a weight that is anywhere from 6-17 pounds, depending on whether they have a Toy or Miniature Poodle parent. Toy Poodle mixes tend to be on the smaller end of the scale, while Miniature Poodle mixes can reach the higher range. Their small build makes them easy to carry and well-suited for apartment living. Despite their small stature, they are sturdy and energetic, capable of keeping up with active owners.
Temperament and Personality
One of the best things about Poochons is their delightful personality. These beautiful creatures are affectionate, intelligent, and social. Their nature makes them great companions for children and other pets. Because they enjoy human interaction, they may develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Some key personality traits include:
- Friendly and playful: Always eager to interact with people and other animals.
- Intelligent and trainable: Picks up commands quickly and enjoys mental stimulation.
- Loyal and affectionate: Forms strong bonds with their owners and enjoys cuddles.
- Energetic but not hyperactive: They need daily walks and playtime but are also happy to relax indoors.
Training and Socialization
Poochons are incredibly smart, thanks to their Poodle heritage, making them highly trainable. Owners are likely to get a great response to positive reinforcement methods like treats and praise. It is best to introduce socialization early as that is key to ensuring they grow up to be confident and well-mannered dogs.
Tips for training:
- Use positive reinforcement techniques.
- Keep training sessions short and fun.
- Expose them to different people, environments, and sounds from an early age.
- Address separation anxiety by gradually increasing alone time.
Exercise Needs
Although small, Poochons have moderate energy levels and need daily exercise to stay not only happy but healthy.
Recommended activities include:
- Daily walks: 1 hour of outdoor activity keeps them stimulated.
- Interactive play: Fetch, tug-of-war, and agility games produce great results.
- Puzzle toys: Engage their minds with treat-dispensing toys.
Grooming and Maintenance
One of the standout features of the Poochon is its low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat. However, this means they require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their fur soft.
- Brushing: At least 3-4 times a week to prevent tangles.
- Professional grooming: Trimming and maintenance every 4-6 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Regular checks and cleaning to avoid infections.
- Dental care: A regular teeth brushing routine of 2-3 times a week
- Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks or as needed.
Health and Lifespan
Poochons are overall healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10 to 18 years. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to some health concerns, including:
- Patellar Luxation: A knee condition common in small breeds.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An eye disorder that can lead to vision loss.
- Hip Dysplasia: Less common but possible, especially in larger Poochons.
- Allergies: Food and Skin Allergies may occur, requiring special care.
- Dental Issues: Small breeds often suffer from dental problems, so regular brushing is essential.
Routine vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and regular exercise will help keep your Poochon healthy and thriving.
How Much is a Bichon Poodle Mix?
The price of a Bichon Poodle mix, or Poochon, can vary significantly based on several factors, including breeder reputation, location, lineage, coat color, and whether the puppy comes with health certifications. On average, Poochon puppies range from $1,000 to $3,000, but some breeders may charge more for puppies from champion bloodlines or those with rare coat colors. If you’re looking to adopt from a shelter or rescue, the cost may be significantly lower, typically between $200 and $500, depending on the organization’s fees.
Aside from the initial purchase price, potential owners should budget for ongoing expenses to ensure their Bichon Poodle mix stays happy and healthy. Grooming is a major expense, as their curly coats require frequent brushing and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks, which can cost $50 to $100 per session. Veterinary care is another important consideration, with routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments (such as flea, tick, and heartworm prevention) costing anywhere from $300 to $800 annually.
Quality dog food, training classes, toys, and pet insurance can add further expenses. While Poochons are generally healthy, they can be prone to issues like dental problems, allergies, and joint concerns, so setting aside a budget for unexpected vet bills is wise.
How to Find a Breeder for Bichon Poodle Mix
Buying from a trustworthy breeder reduces the risk of genetic health problems, poor temperament, and unethical breeding practices. Here’s what to look for when selecting a breeder:
- Health Clearances for the Parents – A reputable breeder will provide health clearances for both parent dogs, proving they have been tested for common genetic conditions.
- Facility Visits and Transparency – Ethical breeders allow potential buyers to visit their breeding facility to see how the puppies are raised.
- References from Past Buyers – A good breeder will have satisfied customers who are willing to share their experiences. Ask for references from previous buyers to get insight into the health, temperament, and long-term well-being of their puppies.
- Prioritization of Temperament and Health – Responsible breeders focus on raising well-adjusted, healthy puppies rather than just breeding for appearance. Poochons should have a friendly, affectionate, and confident temperament. Avoid breeders who prioritize rare coat colors over health or produce excessive litter for profit.
- Ethical Breeding Practices – A reputable breeder does not support puppy mills or overbreed their dogs. They will typically have a limited number of litters per year, ensure proper socialization, and place puppies in homes that are a good fit.
Additionally, a good breeder will offer a health guarantee, provide a contract outlining responsibilities, and be willing to take the dog back if circumstances change.
Is a Bichon Poodle Mix the Right Pet for You?
If you’re looking for a small, friendly, and trainable companion, the Bichon Poodle mix is a strong contender. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their loving nature, making them great for families, singles, and seniors alike. However, they do require regular grooming and consistent training to keep them well-behaved and comfortable in their environment.
Before bringing home a Bichon Poodle mix, it’s important to consider their energy levels and care needs. These dogs are lively and enjoy playtime and daily walks, so they need an owner who can provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation. If you’re looking for an affectionate, intelligent, and hypoallergenic companion and are willing to meet their grooming and social needs, a Bichon Poodle mix might be the perfect pet for you.