The Bichon Poodle combines a purebred Bichon Frise with a pedigree Toy Poodle. A small dog, this cross tends to be friendly, confident and have a low shedding coat. The aim of their breeders is to merge the intelligent, proud characteristics of the Poodle personality, with the more playful, curious Bichon Frise. The result is a charming, affectionate and adorable dog, often known as the Bich Poo or Poochon.
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The History
The Bichpoo originated in Australia during the 1990s, as a loving household pet that would do well with children and other pets. This hybrid has quickly grown in popularity in recent years, as more people discover their benefits as companion animals. But their history goes way further back than that.
The Bichon Frise is thought to be descendant from the Bichon Tenerife, a member of the Barbichon breed family. The Bichon got its start on the Canary Islands, specifically on the island of Tenerife. The breed has roots dating back to at least the 13th century, when they grew quite popular with European royalty as lapdogs. Eventually the breed made its way to the Americas, where it was officially recognized by the AKC in the early 1970s.
The Poodle has a storied history dating back at least 400 years. It is thought to have originated in Germany, where it was bred for retrieving waterfowl for hunters. The Standard Poodle, the original breed, was bred down to the Miniature, which was then bred down again to the Toy variety. Today, all three versions of the Poodle – as well as their various cross-breeds – remain popular. The Bich Poo is bred from either the Toy or Miniature varieties of Poodle.
Bichon Poodle Temperament
So, what’s this dog actually like? What is the temperament of the Bich Poo? The Bich Poo typically takes on many of the characteristics of its parent breeds. Most Bichon Poodle mixes will have a lively, affectionate and active disposition. They are also quite intelligent.
Typically a Bichon Toy Poodle will have an accommodating, patient nature. This makes them a good choice for households with children or other pets. They are prone to sudden bursts of energy, so you will commonly see them zooming around for short periods of time. They also tend to bark a lot. This can make them good watchdogs . But it also means that if they are not trained properly at a young age, barking can become excessive.
Poochons typically do not do well if left alone. They are prone to separation anxiety and tend to bark continuously when left by themselves. With all that said, it’s good to keep in mind that any crossbred dog will have a level of unpredictability. Bichon Poodle puppies could take on more characteristics from one parent breed or the other. Thus, it’s difficult to know exactly what personality your dog will have, as it could be more Poodle or more Bichon Frise, or anywhere in between.
Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics and appearance of this breed can vary, just as the behavioral tendencies can differ. It depends which parent breed comes through stronger. With that said, the bulk of these dogs are small, at 6 to 12 pounds on average. They typically have a height of 9 to 14 inches when fully grown. The size of a Bichpoo dog will also vary depending on the size of the parents, and whether the Poodle parent was of the Miniature or Toy variety.
Bichon Poodle Coat & Coloring
The Poochon has a mid-length, curly coat. Their cute button nose is the only feature to emerge from the thick curls. Their coats are typically quite soft, as long as they are properly maintained and cared for. They also inherit the Poodle tendency for very minimal shedding. The Bichon Poodle coat is typically white or apricot, with various other light shades being possible, but not common.
The Bichon Poo requires frequent brushing to keep their coat soft and prevent matting. Ideally, you should brush its coat daily. Frequent Bichon Poo haircuts are a necessity. Coats should be trimmed every two months or so to maintain a manageable length and prevent matting. Shedding is very minimal with this breed, but routine brushing is still essential. Dental care is also important for this breed, as they can be susceptible to gum infections and related dental problems.
Exercise & Training
Both puppies and Bichon Poo full grown dogs are quite active. They have a moderate to high energy level, and enjoy frequent walks and playtime. Because of their small size, they do better with frequent shorter walks, instead of long ventures once a day.
They also tend to have quick bursts of energy, during which time they love to run around and play. As for training, this mix is typically eager to please. Combine this with their intelligence, and you’ve got a breed that usually responds quite well to training.
With that said, when it comes to training, the earlier you start, the better results you’ll have. This is particularly true with problem behaviors like excessive barking. It’s important to start training and socializing your pup from a young age. If you’re not experienced with training, it’s worthwhile to hire a trainer or obedience school to help.
Health Concerns
Bichon Poodle mixes are prone to many of the health concerns that are prevalent in their parent breeds. Eye problems are common, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Dental concerns are another common issue. Bichons, in particular, are prone to gum infections and tooth loss. It’s important to brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Other concerns like patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, and Von Willebrand disease are also common.
Many of these health concerns can be tested for. Reputable breeders will conduct health tests on their breeding stock to help minimize the risk of complications. Interestingly, there is some evidence to suggest that first generation mixes (i.e. a direct descendent of Poodle and Bichon Frise parents) are less likely to inherit health issues from their parent breeds.
(paid link) Second generations and beyond (the offspring of two Bichon Poodle mixes) are more likely to show health concerns common in Poodle and Bichon Frise dogs. Thus, some experts recommend specifically seeking out reputable breeders that offer first-generation puppies.
As with any breed, frequent veterinary checkups are important and should be scheduled at least once a year. If you have specific questions about your dog’s health, consult with a licensed veterinarian.
How To Find Bichon Poodle Puppies
Finding Bichoodle puppies can be challenging, depending on where you live. It’s important to seek out reputable Bichon Poodle breeders whenever possible. A good breeder will conduct health tests on their breeding stock to help reduce the risk of various inherited health concerns. To locate breeders, search the web for resources in your area. That could be a breeder’s website, a local dog club, or even the local animal shelter.
Before settling on a breeder, be sure to do some research into the background and reputation of the company or individual. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for records relating to the dog’s health. Reputable breeders will not hesitate to show you health records and test results.
Patricia says
I have a little almost 5-month-old Bichon female (Honey). We are thinking of breeding her to a toy poodle in the distant future. I would love to hear from anyone with a small toy poodle. We live in Minnesota.
Michael says
Best-dog-ever. No shed, no smell, affectionate and completely non aggressive. Mine is 14 1/2 years old and not slowing down. Pretty deaf now, but otherwise perfect. She is simply the best.
Jan Harmon says
I am looking for a dog about 2 years old or younger. I lost my Bichon Oct. 6 th. I miss her so much she was 15 1/2 and 3 months. Now I need one that don’t shed. So I will be happy with Poodle, Bichon, or the breed mix. I have had 2 Poodles. I have set it up with my
daughter if something happened to me would she take the dog she said yes as long as it didn’t shed health reason. All there pets have died .So it would always be in a loving home.
Georgia says
Just wondering if you found a puppy and where. I too am thinking we want another puppy. We have a Bichon and would love to add a Bichon Poo to our family.
Sharon says
Looking in florida having no luck
Sandy says
Hi,
I had a great life with a Bichon poodle for 16 1/2 years. I am looking for a healthy bichon poodle puppy. I live in Austin Texas. I am willing to travel to pick up a healthy puppy.
Kindly,
Sandy
Kim says
I had a bichon for 17 years…best dog ever!!! He’s been gone just over a year now, still miss him like crazy. I’m looking for a red bich poo now. I live in dc/md area if anyone knows good breeder
Susan Belchamber says
We’d love to find a companion dog like this! We live in Minnesota. Any advice?
Kris says
If you find a good breeder, let me know. I live in MN too, and just lost my 18 year old Poodle, Bischon, and Westie mix pup. She was a delight.
Vernette says
We’re you able to find a breeder in Minnesota? We are also looking
rachel schaefer says
Also looking for reputable breeder.. so many scams!
Pamela Swift says
Hello, I am looking for a male Bichpoo puppy, darker color not white.
I live in Lodi Ca and I am having trouble finding a puppy local, please let me know if any are available in CA. Thank you
Peggy says
Did you find one?
linda says
Also interested. Did you get your puppy?
Ruth Burgener says
I am looking for a BichPoo or a Cocka poo puppy. I live Tucson Arizona and would like to adopt one or get one from a pound.
cloe says
DO YOU KNOW IF CAN I BUY ONE IN GREECE?
Lynn says
We got our Bichonpoo through PuppySpot. They guarantee never to deal with puppy mills. Our Mr Jackson came from a breeder in Southern Oklahoma. He will be 4 months old tomorrow. He is so sweet and super active. We have a 10 year old Mal-Shi that doesn’t like him yet. Just tolerates his energy for now. Jackson is apricot and weighs 4.6 lbs. we really love him.
Jeannie Hunter says
Hi, we have a 13 week old Poochon, she is putting on weight nicely and very happy, however, we are concerned about the amount of tearing she has, when she was at the vet for her second injection we mentioned this and all he said was , ‘breed is prone to tearing, some people in the USA put them on antibiotics’ he did not examine her eyes in any way?
Charlotte says
We are interested in a puppy and are in SW Okla, can you give us the name of the breeder. Please and thank you.
Aliece says
We adopted a 6 mo old bichpoo this week from Missouri Puppy Mill Rescue. You can find information on their Facebook page.
Donna says
I have had two pups from the same litter that are going on 12 years. They are the best little girls. Easy to train great with children, strangers and other family dogs. I bought them at 8 weeks from Storybook puppies in Austin Texas
Nicole K says
I feel like my Bichon Poo is not your typical A type. She is NOT high energy at all. We try to play with her and it wont last even 5 min. She does not do well with strangers at first but if you give her 15 min then you can pet her. However she is the most loving dog ever. This breed needs an alpha and I have her alpha. Everyone I go she follows and if I put my shoes on she with start crying. I have 3 kids who all play competitive sports which requires traveling. There have been times I would be gone with one Child as the others would stay back. I had gotten a call from my daughter that she laid on the stair landing and cried. Absolutely broke my heart. Any time I leave and come home she always greats me with High energy and will not stop until I acknowledge her. She will jump up and give lots of kisses. I am the only one of the 5 that she does this to.
Health is not the best. She has a spinal disorder and has pain often. I recently found out she has a thyroid problem and now takes medication twice a day. As for her teeth they are in great shape at 4 yrs old. I give her greenies everyday. There is no plaque build up and her gums are good also.
In the end this dog is well worth all the negative aspects. She is very smart! So smart that people have commented on it. They are easy to train as well.
PENNY MOONEY says
The bichon poodle is an amazing, adorable dog. I got my little girl when she was 8 weeks old & she just passed away at age 14. She was So Sweet & Gentle. She genuinely Loved Everyone- especially my family. She Adored children & would NEVER EVER bite anyone. She was Highly Intelligent- I couldn’t believe it, but she understood everything I said.
Every dog is different and mine had a very social personality. I came to realize that she needed more than… just me. She needed more time, attention & affection than one person could give her. She was over-the-moon when I met her daddy; she adored him. She had a Very Real NEED for socialization & mental stimulation. She HAD TO get out of the house & meet people. So, no matter the age, one walk a day will prob NOT be enough.
Having said all that, here is what I learned:
DON’T get a bichon poodle if they’ll be left alone for ANY period of time. The result WILL be separation anxiety & the dog WILL have behavioral problems. If you work & you’re gone all day, then plz WAIT.
My bichon poodle followed me everywhere- she couldn’t even stand to be in another part of the house, she wanted to be with me ALL of the time. (you’ll get used to it) 😉
Bichons don’t tolerate heat well. They are a double-coated breed.
My #1 piece of advice is to start brushing the teeth, no matter their age. This is WHY mine died. If I could do it all over again, I would insist on brushing her teeth- no matter how much she protested & resisted. If you don’t do this, I guarantee you’ll end up with a HUGE Vet Bill & a dog with NO teeth! It will also shorten your dogs life by 3-5 years.
Lastly, my mom told me: if you EVER lose that dog, you’ll NEVER get her back and I’m sure mom was right.
Please, if you ever find a bichon poodle, PLEASE do everything you can to find their owner! I promise you- someone, somewhere is devastated & heartbroken to lose their little dog. xoxoxo
Doriana says
I just lost my Oreo who was the best dog ever. He loved everyone in the family but I was his alpha. He rarely barked at all. Strangers would come in the house and he would love them up. After my husband passed away unexpectedly and quickly I began taking him to work because I was not working from home any more. He became our office greeter. It has not even been a week and my heart is breaking for him. So much love and such a cooperative dog. Everyone who met his feel in love! He was black with tuxedo markings.
Linda Emter says
I totally agree with your mom. When our sweetheart passed the end of last year at age 16–well, we still miss her so very much. I have searched forever to find another to no avail. My heart is still broken. If you know of anyone that has a bichpoo, bichon, or mini poodle for sale PLEASE let me know. Thankyou so much. Linda E
Denise says
I was so fortunate to adopt a bichon poo at a well known animal shelter on April 26, 2019. She was all hair, matted and homeless. Spaying and all immunizations were done at the shelter free and they had to give her a good trim. They thought she was 8 years old and the vet said she is 2 years old. Pure white and her hair has come in so nicely now. Lots of energy and a very quick learner. Already taken with her! These dogs are high energy and need lots of exercise. She is very loving and doesn’t bark at all here though she occasionally barks at others when we’re on a long walk. She loves to chase little tennis balls for 30 minutes and she is so entertaining. Couldn’t love her more.
Stacey says
I have a Poodle/Bichon mix. She is a registered Therapy Dog and has been doing therapy work for 11years. She is 8 pounds of pure joy. With proper training your dog will be wonderful. I bell trained my dog to hit a bell that hangs by our back door when she has to go out. It took about 3 weeks for her to get it, but it did work and that’s how she lets me know she has to go potty. I take her to a groomer every 4 weeks. Because she is a working dog, she has to be groomed more often. She is brushed everyday. She had developed bladder stones 18 months ago, which was a costly operation. She also has had to have many teeth removed over time as poodles tend to have gum problems. I do brush her teeth every day, but it doesn’t seem to stop the gums from being a problem. Having your dog get a dental treatment once a year helps. Enjoy your bundle of Joy!
Shannon says
Where can I was it one. My baby does after 16 yrs please help I miss her so much
Camille A Kanda says
Hello I’m looking for a bichon in Chicago Illinois thank you
Colleen Burke says
Is a bichon poo a good choice for my first dog?
They are so cute!
donna taormina says
I have my Doggee, a Bichon poo..He is the love of my life. He is turning 14yrs old in Aug. He is very faithful sleeps at the foot of the bed.. and He loves the pool he will put his paws on the float, I put my arm around his waist and his feet dangle. He stays with me for hours just chilling. There are the best ! I highly recommend them and would get another But there is no other as good as this boy of mine Donna
Frances says
I am looking for a brown one. Any leads?
Thank you.
Frances
Tammy says
I live in Omaha Nebraska and would love a female! Can anyone help me out?
Gloria S says
I have a Bichopoo we got her little over two months ago she was 8weeks and she is very lovable she a mini she is very attached to my husband she wakes me up with a bunch of kisses that means she has to go out to go potty she loves everyone
NF says
Where did you get her! Please share! 🙂
rachel says
I live on the o c. And my girl is in heat she was a rescue and is 6 y.o. and I would like to make sure she has a litter now while she is young the dr. Saidshe is healthy i just need a stud bichon poo. A friends dog has tried but he is like 1 /2 her size and she day 5 or 6 of being in heat and it’s notworking. I was told he has to accept her and not her to him, is this true? This is my first time they sniff each other and have licked each other but he just cant mound her not sure if its him or her. Any advise. So far they have spend a full day together, oh and it was their first time meeting.
Sbd says
Would you please name the breeder? I am so skeptical of online purchases of puppies. I do not want to aid a puppy mill.
Joyce says
Wish I vould afford one.on disability and need a campion
Madeleine says
I found my Bichpoo on Petfinder. He was 7 years old and is now a certified Therapy Dog. We volunteer at hospitals, universities and hospice.
Shirley says
Try your humane society or SPCA. I found a gorgeous yellow labradoodle but he was already spoken for. If you leave your name and what you are looking for they will call you when one is available. It doesn’t have to be an expensive purebred either to make a good companion dog.
D says
Yes, checking with your local shelter is a great way to adopt your furry companion. I adopted a pure white 2-year old bishonpoo from a shelter and they spayed her and gave all immunizations – free. She is high energy, eager to please, loving and entertaining. As far as potty training, she had a few mistakes but they train you to take them out such as going to the door and looking back at you. It’s just picking up on their cues. When she’s here, she never barks, unless she’s trying to tell me that her prized little tennis ball landed again under the sofa 🙂 Just love her!
Rick Guariglia says
Looking for a bichon, Maltese, or havanese puppy. I live in south New Jersey
Kelly duvall says
I would kill to have a small fur-friend. I have loved these puppies forever, I just wish I could afford the price tag. I want a puppy family member, not to breed them. 🙁
Karen smith says
I purchased a bishpoo last March he is such a loveable pup yes the sudden busts of energy is true he used to bark every time the tv would have a doorbell ring I finally got him over it by using my cellphone playing different doorbell noises. He has a very keen sense of hearing any little noice he would start barking. He is getting much better as with age. I have two other diog a bischon Frise and a chorkie they all get along great easy to train him to go potty outside he would watch me put on a shirt on the chorkie since he is only 3 lbs and watched me take a shower and put on clothes too so what he wanted is to have clothes on too so I bought him a shirt and he absolutely loves it. They are part of the family and they all think they are people not dogs.
Madeleine says
Are you willing to disclose the breeder? I live in puppy mill central and believe the puppy mills have gotten vey smart about fronting their operations.
Brend says
We are very interested in this pup. Is there a new litter anytime soon? How much?
Rebe Young says
Looking for a bichon female teacup poodle mix. I would like to adopt or rescue. I live in Columbia S C
Allyson Fellars says
Did you ever find one?
Mrs N Simpson says
We rescued a bichonpoo cross 4 year old male dog whose elderly owned had died.
He was desperate for a new home, so we adopted him. This dog has changed our lives!
He is hilarious, does have moments of dashing about, barks a lot, but mainly if someone arrives at the door, or if it is someone he knows.
We have always taken our dogs everywhere with us, if they don’t allow dogs, then we don’t go.! The only problem is that every trip takes ages because people will stop to pet him and talk to us. Had cavaliers before but love our bichonpoo.
Donna Willadsen says
I have a bichonpoo also that just turned 14. I love him dearly and know that he is at the end of his life, but he is still very active just not as often.
Renee says
I am looking for a dog of that age and male we had a cockerpoo and a cooker mix retriever from Argentina, best dogs ever fo us Where ae living I in Ottawa do you have a ;photo? We are elderly and that is why we prefer an older fog then a puppy
30 oct 2019
Gloria says
I need boyfriend for vichon poo she have 1 year old
Theresa says
Hello, I have a 6 yr old Bichon/toy poodle…I’m so in love with this little guy. He is such a joy to have in my family and I am currently looking for a breeder, so I can have one more to love unconditionally.
Please forward a breeders name located in Ohio within 50 mile radius of Akron.
P MOON says
I adopted my best friend (a bichon poodle) when she was just a baby~ way back in 2005. It’s The Best Decision I’ve EVER made. She’s 13.5 years old now & I cherish each & every day I have with her.
This quote says it all for me:
“I swear I couldn’t love you more than I do right now, and yet I know I will tomorrow”
Carl Thoreson says
We are concerned about the barking. Is it a problem with your dog?
Mrs N Simpson says
Ours does bark a lot, not good if you have non dog loving neighbours.
Tamia Hope says
How do I find a bishon and poodle mix breeder?
Ashley says
I found mine locally. I actually got him by luck. I was part of a puppy group on Facebook and next thing u know he is part of our family !
Sheree says
We will be looking for a puppy next summer. Can you share the Facebook site you are a part of or the breeder’s info? Thank you
Ashley says
It was the 209 rehoming pet on Facebook group
Monette says
Hi. Any tips on house training my 10 week old Bichon Poo? She is obviously intelligent and doesn’t miss a thing. Yet refuses to use wee wee pads. I’ll take her to the pad, she’ll walk around on it then sit and look at me. I wait for a few minutes and more minutes. As soon as she’s free, she’ll pee, not on the pad. I almost feel like she’s being purposely defiant. Tips???
Pippa Mattinson says
Hi Monette, join the forum for help with training your puppy . 🙂
Katrina Jackson says
Has it gotten better, in having the sane problems
Joe curran says
Looking for small puppy or adult dog,8 to 12 lbs.
Shanell says
Not sure , where you live however I used Westchester puppies and kittens in Hartsdale New York mine is bishon maltipoo . Her name is Belle she is 12 weeks 4.2 pounds …..Love her so much