Bichon poodles are the combination of a Bichon Frise and a poodle. The result is a lovable companion with the softest fur and a sweet smiling face.
These dogs were bred specifically to be cute and cuddly lap dogs.
They have all of the intelligence of a Poodle combined with the friendly and funny nature of a Bichon Frise.
The Bichon Poodle has something for everyone.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is a Bichon Poodle?
A Bichon Poodle is a mix between the Poodle and the Bichon Frise.
They are bred from either standard size or toy poodles. Those bred from toy Poodles are commonly known as teacups.
It is classified as a hybrid and is specifically bred to be a lap dog and companion.
With their endearingly curly hair and black button noses, they look just like fluffy teddies on four legs. They have big smiles, and their happy faces match their personality. They are extremely loving towards their owners and are always eager to curl up beside you in bed or on your lap.
The combined intelligence of both a Poodle and a Bichon means they can keep you on your toes for hours if given the correction stimulation.
They are easy to care for and to train, but they will need a regular grooming routine to look their very best.
- Overview: Hybrid (Bichon Frise/Poodle).
- Purpose: Companionship.
- Weight: 6-18 pounds.
- Size: 9-15 inches.
- Temperament: Jolly, smart and affectionate.
Bichon Poodle Mix Appearance
There is no true breed standard for this dog as they are a mix.
However with luck, it will have the best features of both the Bichon and the Poodle. These merry souls have dark gentle eyes, a black button nose and a friendly face that is always smiling.
They have small bodies with short, stubby legs.
Height and Weight
These small dogs stand between 9-15 inches tall.
Weight should range from 6-18 pounds, with Teacup Bichon Poodles weighing 6-10 pounds.
There is no major difference in size between males and females.
Breed Colors and Coat
Bichon Poodles are usually brown, white or tan colored. However, they can occur in cream or even ginger colors.
Darker colored ones can have white markings on their undersides.
The Bichon Poo has a medium length, curly single coat. They need plenty of care and grooming to keep looking clean and neat.
This pooch hardly sheds at all and does not produce a lot of dander. Now those with dog allergies can have a furry friend too. Despite their low shed frequency they must be brushed daily to keep their fur from becoming matted. They will also need a haircut every month or two.
5 Fun Facts About The Bichon Frise Poodle Mix
- They are also known as Poochons, Bichpoos, and Bichon Poos.
- Smaller dogs usually have smaller litter sizes – this dog can have a litter of up to 5 puppies.
- They are one of the best possible first puppies for children of all ages, and a great opportunity to teach kids about how to care for a dog.
- Since its parent breeds are so highly intelligent, it excels at brain games and learning tricks.
- The word Bichon refers to a variety of different toy dogs, including the more well-known Maltese.
Bichon Poodle Personality and Temperament
While a mixes temperament is always dependent on genetics, this breed’s personality is a bit more predictable than other mixes.
They are are social butterflies that love to make new friends. Their natural friendliness makes them one of the easier breeds to socialize.
Bichon Poos are very smart and playful and love games that keep their minds working. They will love a trip to the park or a run around the yard. Their high intelligence means that they learn quickly, but also means that they are easily bored. They can be very annoying when under-stimulated.
Unfortunately this breed can be loud and yappy. They may yap or whine if they are bored, and may bark excitably when they see a new friend.
While it’s great to have a dog that wants to have a conversation with you, you will have to teach them when it’s okay to bark and when it is best to be quiet.
These dogs will actively engage their owners by bringing them their favorite toys or showing off their favorite new tricks.
Every owner of any age and skill level can take care of one.
All in all they are natural people dogs who want nothing more than to keep you amused and happy.
Is Bichon Poo A Good Family Dog?
This breed is one of the very best family dogs around.
Caring for a Bichon Poodle
A Bichon Frise Poodle mix is easy to care for which makes them great for first time owners. They do not need much beyond the basics that any dog needs.
Keeping them clean and well groomed is the most important and intensive part of their care.
Exercise Requirements
This mix has sudden energy bursts.
They will want to be on their feet one moment and all curled up the next.
You can take them on up to 3 short 10 minute walks a day. A walk through the dog park or around the yard is just fine for distance. They can be trained to walk off leash but be sure to watch them carefully.
In addition to their walks they should have at least 10 minutes of off leash play. Your dog will let you know when it’s time to play!
They enjoy all of the classic doggie games, including fetch and Frisbee.
- Number of Walks Per Day: 3.
- Total Exercise Needed Per Day: 30-45 Minutes.
Grooming and Shedding
Grooming is the most demanding aspect of caring for this breed. Without regular grooming their fur will become a tangled mess.
This dog’s long coat does not maintain itself naturally through shedding and regrowth. Keeping their fur neat and trimmed will be entirely up to you.
They will need monthly trips to a professional groomer in addition to their daily brushing. They will also need shampooing and a haircut at least every 2 months.
Be sure to brush your dog’s teeth at least once a week, or invest in dental treats for more reluctant dogs. Small dog breeds are especially prone to dental health problems.
Feeding and Diet
Many owners will make the mistake of feeding this small dog the same kind of food as a larger and more active breed.
These dogs have different caloric needs for their small bodies.
Bichon Poodles should be given kibble made specifically for small and toy breeds. You can give them up to 3 meals a day, at a half-cup of kibble per meal.
Foods for toy dog breeds contain less fat and carbs than those for larger dogs. However, they are much more calorie dense.
Your dog’s weight should range from 6 to 18 pounds for either gender.
| Calories Per Day: | Cups of Kibble Per Day: |
|---|---|
| 500 | ~1.5 |
Known Health Problems
- Small breeds like the Bichon Poodle are very susceptible to periodontal disease. This makes eating very painful, and it can even lead to heart disease.
- Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye problem inherited from both parent breeds. It usually occurs when the dog reaches middle age.
Exam fees are included, which saves you around $50-$250 per sick visit.
PetPlan covers injury and disease in every adult tooth — not just the canines.
Not all providers cover hereditary conditions linked to breed. PetPlan does.
How Long Does A Bichon Poodle Live?
You can expect yours to live for 12-16 years, but it’s not unheard of for them to make it to 18 years old.
How Much Does A Bichon Poodle Cost?
A puppy from a breeder can cost up to $1000 on average.
How to Train a Bichon Poodle
Bichon Poodles do very well with dog training. They learn quickly and have very few negative behaviors.
It is important to keep up a routine of positive reinforcement at all times. This is not the kind of dog to shut up in a crate or punish with a time out.
They have the same socialization requirements as any other dog, but their natural friendliness makes them easier to socialize than others. Bichon Poodles high mental capacity means that they will learn fast, but it also means that you will need to keep their active brains busy for most of the day.
You can amuse them with new tricks to learn and toys that require a certain amount of brainpower to figure out (they are even smart enough to solve a maze).
Children’s play tunnels and tents can be used to create a doggie maze in your house or backyard. Hide some treats and toys in different parts of the maze and see if your pooch can find their way to the exit.
Buyer’s Guide
| Pros | Cons |
| Very little shedding | Intensive, costly grooming requirements |
| Loves to be held and cuddled | Can be a bit loud and yappy |
| Great first dog for young children | May be nervous and anxiety prone |
| Adapts well to nearly all kinds of homes | Fur gets matted easily |
| Obedient and very easy to train |
Quick Breed Summary Table
| Breed Characteristics | |
| Size: | 9-15 inches |
| Weight: | 10-6-18lb |
| Lifespan: | 12-16 years |
| Coat: | Curly single coat |
| Color: | Brown, white, tan and cream |
| Do They Shed: | No |
| Temperament: | Smart, happy, loving, docile and social |
| Intelligence: | High |
| Socialization: | Readily socializes with people and other dogs |
| Destructive Behavior: | Sometimes |
| People Skills: | Gets along with everybody |
| Good with Children: | Yes |
| Activity Levels: | Moderate |
Summary
The Bichon Poodle is suitable for anyone that is looking to add a loving new member to their family.
They will be happy in any kind of home.
Their intelligent and engaging nature will keep everybody amused.
They will just love to meet the other members of your family and will even make friends with your other pets.
All in all these sweet little souls want to see you happy. Their natural desire to love and to please makes them one of the best canine companions that you can find.
More Bichon Frise and Poodle Mixes
Want a Bichon Frise mix or Poodle mix but aren’t keen on the Bichon Poodle mix? Check out these other hybrid dog breeds:
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