Bichon Poo Dog Breed Information

General Information:

Height: 10-16 in
Weight: 10-20 lbs
Life Span: 12-16 yrs
Coloring: White, cream, apricot, gray, blue, black; solid or double – colored coats possible
Area of Origin: North America
Similar Breeds: Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Lhasa-Poo, Cocka-Poo, Malti-Poo, Shih-Poo

History and Origin:

A “designer dog” breed, the Bichon-Poo is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a Poodle (typically a Toy Poodle). Also sometimes known as the Poochon or Bich-Poo, this cross-breed aims to pull the best characteristics from both parent breeds. First bred in the late 20th century, the Bichon-Poo was one of many mixes with Poodles to intentionally produce dogs with hypoallergenic coats. A fantastic family dog, the Bichon-Poo typically possesses the admirable qualities of both the Bichon and the Poodle, and is a true companion.

Personality and Temperament:

Social, loving, and intelligent, the Bichon-Poo will make friends wherever it goes. It is eager to meet new people and animals, and is happy to share its home with children, other dogs, and cats. While friendly to strangers, it will nevertheless protect its owner’s property with an alerting bark. The Bichon-Poo has a comforting, calm, affirming personality, making it suitable for nervous or first-time dog owners.

Exercise & Training:

While a typically calm dog, the Bichon-Poo loves being active. While a strenuous exercise regime is not needed, daily short walks and some play time will help keep it happy and healthy. Intelligent and aiming to please, it is an easy dog to train. Just like both of their parents, they love to perform and learn tricks, often happy to be the center of attention in a crowded room. Ensuring it receives early and consistent socialization is key; the Poodle tends to be slightly more high-strung than the Bichon, and it is possible that this trait may occur in a Bichon-Poo.

Grooming:

The Bichon-Poo’s coat is typically curly, soft, and frequently fluffy, but it can also take after the Bichon and be straighter and softer. While it is a low-shedding breed, the fur is prone to matting and tangles, and daily brushing is recommended to maintain coat and skin health. Frequency of professional grooming depends on the desired appearance of the coat: A more trimmed looked requires grooming every 6-8 weeks, while a longer look may only require maintenance every 12-16 weeks.

Similar Breeds:

Many other Poodle “designer” mixes share similar characteristics and personality traits as the Bichon-Poo. Some notable mixes include the Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel x Poodle), Lhasa-Poo (Lhasa Apso x Poodle), Malti-Poo (Maltese x Poodle), Shih-Poo (Shih Tzu x Poodle).

Interesting Facts about the Bichon-Poo:

1. While not recognized by kennel clubs such as the AKC, CKC, or UKC, the Bichon-Poo can be registered with recently-formed “hybrid breed” clubs, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).

2. Genetic testing has suggested the Bichon-Poo’’s dominant color is determined by its Poodle side.

3. Both the Bichon Frise and the Poodle are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs; the Bichon-Poo is recommended for those with dog allergies.