Breed History:

The Poochon, also known as the Bichpoo or Bichon Poodle, is a designer companion crossbreed developed by crossing the Bichon Frise with the Poodle, usually a Miniature or Toy Poodle. The breed gained popularity in Australia and the United States during the late 20th century as breeders sought a small, intelligent, and low-shedding family companion.

The goal was to combine the cheerful and affectionate nature of the Bichon Frise with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle. The result is a friendly, playful, and highly adaptable dog that fits well into a variety of households.

Today, the Poochon is one of the most popular small designer breeds and is especially valued as a family companion.

Size: Small

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Poochon is a compact, fluffy, teddy-bear-like companion dog.

The breed commonly features:

• Round expressive eyes

• Medium-length muzzle

• Drop ears with soft feathering

• Compact and balanced body

• Plumed tail carried over the back or slightly curved

Its coat is soft, dense, curly, or wavy depending on genetic inheritance.

Common coat colours include:

• White

• Cream

• Apricot

• Black

• Brown

• Silver

• Parti-colour combinations

Many Poochons retain a plush teddy-bear appearance throughout adulthood.

Breed Type – Companion Dog:

The Poochon is an affectionate, intelligent, and highly social companion breed.

It is known for being:

• Friendly and outgoing

• Loyal and affectionate

• Playful and energetic

• Intelligent and eager to please

• Adaptable and family-oriented

The breed generally gets along well with children, strangers, and other pets when properly socialised.

Poochons thrive on human companionship and enjoy being involved in family activities.

Training:

The Poochon is highly intelligent and generally easy to train.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Basic obedience

• Trick training

• Mental stimulation and interactive games

The breed excels in:

• Obedience

• Agility

• Therapy work

• Trick training

Because of its eagerness to please, the Poochon often learns commands quickly.

Health & Care:

The Poochon may occasionally be prone to:

• Patellar luxation

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

• Dental disease

• Allergies

• Ear infections

Routine veterinary care, proper grooming, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Regular dental care is especially important for small breeds.

Living Conditions:

The Poochon adapts exceptionally well to apartments and family homes.

The breed prefers:

• Indoor family living

• Human companionship

• Comfortable resting spaces

• Moderate daily activity

Because of its social nature, the breed may develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently.

Exercise:

The Poochon has moderate exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks

• Indoor play sessions

• Interactive games

• Puzzle toys and mental stimulation

• Basic agility or obedience activities

The breed enjoys activity but is generally manageable in smaller living spaces.

Grooming:

The coat requires regular maintenance.

• Brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent matting

• Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed sheds very little but requires ongoing coat care.

Advantages:

• Friendly and affectionate temperament

• Highly intelligent and trainable

• Low-shedding coat

• Excellent family companion

• Adaptable to apartment living

• Good with children and other pets

Disadvantages:

• Requires frequent grooming and coat maintenance

• Can develop separation anxiety

• Needs regular dental care

• May bark if bored or under-stimulated

• Sensitive to harsh training methods

• Requires daily interaction and companionship