Poochon: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The Poochon, also called Bichpoo or Bichon Poo, is the result of a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Poodle, generally toy or miniature in size. It was developed in Australia in the 1990s, at the same time as other poodle crosses, to obtain a small, sociable, low-shedding companion dog. It became popular in the United Kingdom and Northern Europe. It is not a breed recognized by the FCI or by major kennel clubs.

The Poochon is a small dog measuring 23 to 38 cm and weighing around 3 to 8 kg, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Its head is round, its eyes dark and expressive, its ears drooping. Its soft, curly to wavy coat is reminiscent of that of the Bichon. Coat colors range from white to cream and apricot, sometimes with brown, gray or black.

Happy, affectionate and sociable, the Poochon enjoys company and generally gets along well with children, other dogs and cats. He is lively and playful without being excitable. Very attached to his loved ones, he does not cope well with prolonged solitude.

It adapts very well to apartment living. Daily walks and games are enough for its balance. It likes to follow its owners around the house and take part in family life.

Intelligent and eager to please, he learns easily with positive methods. House training may require patience. Gradual learning of being alone is important from a very young age.

The price of a Poochon depends on the parents' health tests, socialization and demand. It remains uncommon in France.

The Poochon is generally in good health, but it can inherit conditions from both parents: kneecaps, eyes, teeth and skin allergies.

Small companion dog, it needs a complete diet in small portions.

The name Poochon comes from the contraction of “poodle”, the English word for caniche, and “bichon”. It is also called Bichpoo, particularly in the United States.