The Poochon or Bich-poo is one of the hybrid breeds developed from two parent breeds that have very similar characteristics. As such the Bichpoo has the curly, silky coat of both parent breeds along with the high levels of intelligent and natural athletic ability also found in both breeds.

The Poochon, as a canine hybrid that is very popular, can be of any color including pure white, parti-colored or solid colors of cream, apricot, gray with or without white markings. Most tend to be very muted colors and many have white flecking or ticking throughout the coat, giving a lighter overall appearance.

Usually the Poochon is a Bichon Frise crossed with a Miniature Poodle, resulting in a smaller sized dog of about 10 to 15 pounds at maturity. The body is lean and longer than the dog is tall, well balanced and muscular under the soft, fluffy coat. The tail is medium length and generally carried high in the air or slightly curled.

The face of the Bich-poo is similar to both parent breeds with a rounded skull, longer well fringed ears, alert bright eyes and moderately long tapered muzzle. If the face is not clipped the dog will have a beard and rather prominent long hair over the entire face area.

The Poochon, like most companion dog types, has an outstanding friendly and lovable temperament. They are well known as excellent family dogs, getting along well with children, the elderly and adults equally well. Since both the Bichon Frise and the Poodle are typically very social dogs and are not prone to dog aggression or being territorial the Bichpoo has the same general trait. They do love to be with people and are not happy when left alone for long periods of time.

The Poochon is good with cats and other pets and is an excellent pet for traveling or being around new people and in new places. Early socialization and obedience training is still important, but these dogs are much easier to work with than some of the more dominant breeds.

A highly intelligent dog the Poochon will learn very fast and is usually easy to housetrain at a young age. They don’t like highly repetitive type training routines so it is important to have a variety of activities for the dog to do.

The Bichpoo is a hybrid dog that requires frequent care and grooming of their medium length curly coat. Most owners clip the dogs every six to eight weeks to prevent matting and tangling and keeping the coat short and easy to care for. The short clipped coat requires brushing once every two to three days while a longer natural coat should be brushed every day.

This small sized dog will self-exercise in a house but they still need a good brisk walk once or twice a day. They love to play with toys and are usually very happy to play fetch with their owners as long as someone will keep throwing the toy.

The Poochon is a relatively low shedding dog and may be very suitable for people with mild to moderate allergies to dog dander and allergies. As each individual is different with regards to their allergies it is important to check that the puppy will be suitable for your home.

Clubs and Registries:

• ACHC
• DRA
• ICA
• UABR
• APRI
• CKC

by Julie-Ann Amos, professional writer, and owner of international writing agency www.ExquisiteWriting.com

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