Bich-poo
Hybrid Breed Description
The Bich-poo is a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Bich-poo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy companion dog standing between 9.5 and 11.5 inches tall at the withers and weighing 12 to 18 pounds, with males typically being slightly taller than females. Despite their delicate appearance, these dogs possess a surprisingly robust and well-proportioned build with a body slightly longer than their height, creating balanced proportions. The compact frame features a moderately rounded skull with a slight but definite stop, a relatively short blunt muzzle that comprises about two-fifths of the head length, and a pronounced black nose that provides striking contrast against their light-colored coat. The Bichon's most distinctive characteristic is their remarkable double coat consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a textured outer coat that grows in loosely curled spirals or corkscrews approximately 3 to 4 inches long. This unique coat does not shed significantly, making the breed popular among allergy sufferers, though it requires extensive grooming to prevent matting. While pure white is strongly preferred in show rings, the coat may display subtle shades of cream, buff, or apricot around the ears or on the body. When properly groomed, the coat creates the breed's signature rounded, powder-puff appearance that gives them an almost cloud-like or teddy bear quality. The breed possesses dark round eyes that sparkle with intelligence and curiosity, creating an alert and friendly expression that is quintessentially Bichon. The ears are dropped and covered with long flowing hair, framing the face softly. The tail is well-plumed and carried gracefully over the back in a characteristic curve, adding to the breed's proud, confident carriage. The legs are straight with well-developed bones proportionate to the dog's size, and the small oval feet have arched toes. Overall, the Bichon Frise presents an image of cheerful elegance and playfulness, with a distinctive gait that is light, precise, and purposeful, reflecting both their historical role as companion dogs to nobility and their naturally happy disposition.
Key Characteristics
The Bichon Frise is celebrated for its cheerful, affectionate, and playful temperament that makes it an ideal companion for various households. These dogs approach life with remarkable enthusiasm and optimism, seeming to treat each day as the best ever. They are highly social animals who thrive on human companionship and interaction, forming strong bonds with all family members rather than focusing on a single person. This people-oriented nature makes them excellent with children when properly supervised, as they generally display patience and gentleness, though their exuberance can sometimes be overwhelming for very young children. Bichons are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively trainable compared to many small breeds, though they can display an independent streak. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods including treats, praise, and play, as harsh corrections are counterproductive with these sensitive dogs. Early socialization helps ensure they develop into confident, well-adjusted adults comfortable with various people, animals, and situations. While naturally friendly with strangers and typically good with other dogs and pets, some individuals may exhibit territorial behaviors if not properly trained, and they can be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods due to their strong attachment to their families. One behavioral challenge commonly associated with Bichons is housetraining, which many owners find more difficult than with larger breeds, requiring consistency and patience. When their needs for attention, exercise, and mental stimulation are not met, Bichons may develop Small Dog Syndrome behaviors including excessive barking, guarding resources, destructive chewing, and even snapping or nipping. These are not inherent breed traits but rather learned behaviors that emerge when the dog is not given appropriate leadership and structure. Daily walks and playtime, while not requiring the extensive exercise of larger breeds, are essential for their physical and mental wellbeing. Bichon Frises can be somewhat vocal, using their bark to alert their family or seek attention, though they are not typically aggressive. They make enthusiastic watchdogs due to their alertness, though their friendly nature means they are more likely to welcome intruders with tail wags than aggression. These dogs genuinely enjoy being the center of attention and often display charming, sometimes clownish behaviors that delight their families. They adapt well to various living situations including apartments, provided they receive adequate attention and exercise. With proper training, socialization, and care, Bichons are loyal, entertaining companions who bring joy and laughter to their households throughout their lives.
Bichon Frises generally enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years when provided with proper care, though they are predisposed to several health conditions common in small breeds. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, is one of the most frequent orthopedic issues affecting Bichons. This condition can cause intermittent lameness, a characteristic bunny-hopping gait, and pain, with severity ranging from mild occasional discomfort to debilitating arthritis requiring surgical correction. Maintaining optimal weight and providing appropriate exercise helps manage this condition throughout the dog's life. Bladder stones or urolithiasis represent another significant health concern in the breed, occurring when minerals crystallize in the urinary tract causing pain, bloody urine, frequent urination attempts, and potential blockages. These stones may be hereditary, diet-related, or secondary to urinary infections, and treatment ranges from dietary dissolution to surgical removal depending on stone composition and size. Regular urinary monitoring and appropriate nutrition help prevent recurrence in susceptible individuals. Eye conditions affect many Bichons throughout their lives, with cataracts being particularly prevalent and potentially appearing as early as six months of age in some individuals. These cloudy areas in the lens gradually impair vision, though surgical correction is often successful. Corneal dystrophy, another hereditary eye condition, causes opaque areas to develop on the cornea and may progress to ulceration requiring veterinary intervention. Progressive retinal atrophy has also been documented in the breed, leading to gradual vision loss. Regular ophthalmologic examinations allow for early detection and appropriate management of these conditions. Dental disease is extremely common in Bichons and other small breeds due to teeth crowding in smaller jaws. Without diligent home care including regular brushing and professional cleanings, periodontal disease can develop, potentially leading to tooth loss and systemic health issues as bacteria enter the bloodstream. The breed also shows susceptibility to various allergies manifesting as skin irritation, excessive scratching, ear infections, and digestive upset. Diabetes mellitus, though less common, affects some Bichons, particularly as they age, requiring insulin management and careful dietary control. Ear infections occur frequently in the breed due to their drop ears and abundant ear hair that traps moisture and debris. Heart disease, particularly affecting older Bichons, is a leading cause of death in the breed's senior years. Working with health-conscious breeders who test for hereditary conditions, maintaining excellent dental hygiene, providing appropriate nutrition and exercise, and ensuring regular veterinary care including preventive screenings offers the best foundation for these charming companions to enjoy long, healthy, and happy lives.
Poodle
The Standard Poodle is a medium to large elegant dog standing over 15 inches at the withers, typically between 18 and 24 inches tall, with males generally larger than females. Males weigh approximately 60 to 70 pounds while females range from 45 to 60 pounds, creating a well-balanced, athletic build that is neither heavy nor delicate. The breed presents a square profile when properly proportioned, with body length from breastbone to rump approximately equal to height at the withers, emphasizing the breed's balanced construction designed for both power and agility. The Poodle's most distinctive feature is its unique curly coat consisting of a single layer of dense, tightly curled hair rather than fur, with individual follicles having an exceptionally long growth phase. This coat comes in a remarkable variety of solid colors including white, black, brown, apricot, cream, red, silver, gray, and café au lait, with only solid colors recognized for conformation showing by major registries, though parti-colored and other patterns exist. The coat's texture is somewhat harsh to the touch, providing weather resistance, and it grows continuously rather than shedding seasonally, making the breed popular among allergy sufferers though not truly hypoallergenic. The Poodle head is moderately rounded with a slight peak, featuring a long straight muzzle that tapers slightly, a well-defined stop, and tight-fitting lips. The breed possesses dark oval eyes set somewhat far apart, conveying an expression of intelligence and alertness, while the ears hang close to the head and are long, flat, and heavily feathered. The neck is strong, well-arched, and carried proudly, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders. The topline remains level whether standing or moving, and the tail is set high and carried upward, traditionally docked to create balanced proportions though this practice varies by country. The feet are small and oval with arched toes, and the overall movement is light, springy, and effortless, demonstrating the breed's athletic heritage as a water retriever. When groomed in the traditional Continental or English Saddle clips, the Poodle's elegant structure and proud carriage create the distinctive silhouette recognized worldwide, though many pet Poodles wear simpler sporting or puppy clips that are easier to maintain while still showcasing the breed's inherent grace and nobility.
Key Characteristics
The Poodle possesses exceptional intelligence, ranking second among all dog breeds in working and obedience intelligence, combined with an eager-to-please attitude that makes them highly trainable and versatile companions. These dogs are remarkably perceptive and quick learners who excel at understanding complex commands and enjoy the mental challenge of training, making them naturals at obedience, agility, and advanced trick work. Their sensitivity means they respond best to positive reinforcement methods, as they are attuned to their handler's tone and emotions, and harsh corrections can damage the trust and enthusiasm essential to their cooperative nature. Poodles are active, athletic dogs requiring substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to remain balanced and content. Their heritage as water retrievers means many Poodles are natural swimmers who love water activities, and they generally enjoy fetch, long walks, running, and interactive play. Without adequate physical and mental outlets, they can become bored and may develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking. Despite their elegant appearance and reputation as fancy show dogs, Poodles are capable sporting dogs with considerable endurance and energy that should not be underestimated by potential owners seeking a more sedentary companion. The breed displays a friendly, social temperament with family members and generally gets along well with children when properly supervised, though they can be somewhat reserved with strangers initially. They typically coexist peacefully with other pets when properly socialized, though their size and energy mean interactions with smaller animals require monitoring. Poodles form strong bonds with their families and prefer to be included in daily activities rather than left alone for extended periods. They can be sensitive to noise and chaos, sometimes bordering on anxious in chaotic environments, and they appreciate calm, structured households where they can predict routines and feel secure. While not typically aggressive, Poodles make adequate watchdogs as they are alert and will bark to announce visitors or unusual activity, though excessive barking can become problematic without proper training. Their people-pleasing nature and desire for companionship mean they thrive in homes where they receive ample attention, consistent training, and are treated as valued family members. Some individuals can develop neurotic tendencies if their needs for exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship are not met, manifesting as anxiety, obsessive behaviors, or fearfulness. With appropriate care, exercise, and training, Poodles are devoted, entertaining, and adaptable companions who bring elegance, intelligence, and affection to their families' lives.
Standard Poodles generally enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, though like many purebred dogs they are predisposed to several hereditary health conditions. Hip dysplasia is one of the most significant concerns, where abnormal hip joint development leads to arthritis, pain, and reduced mobility. Responsible breeders conduct hip evaluations through OFA or PennHIP certification, and maintaining optimal weight combined with appropriate exercise throughout life helps manage this progressive condition. Elbow dysplasia may also affect the breed, causing lameness and discomfort in the front legs. Sebaceous adenitis is a serious skin condition particularly prevalent in Standard Poodles, where the sebaceous glands become inflamed and eventually destroyed, leading to dry scaly skin, hair loss, and a dull coat with a distinctive musty odor. Approximately 50 percent of Standard Poodles are either carriers or affected by this condition, making it critical that breeders screen their stock and prospective owners understand the implications. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms through specialized shampoos, oils, and sometimes medications, though the condition is progressive and cannot be cured. Eye conditions represent another area of concern for the breed. Progressive retinal atrophy causes gradual retinal degeneration leading to night blindness initially and eventual complete vision loss. Cataracts may develop at various ages, clouding the lens and affecting vision, though surgical correction is often successful. Regular ophthalmologic examinations allow for early detection and monitoring of these hereditary conditions. The breed also shows susceptibility to glaucoma, which causes increased pressure within the eye requiring prompt veterinary intervention to preserve vision. Idiopathic epilepsy affects some Poodles, manifesting as seizures that typically last one to two minutes and cause spastic muscle movements, loss of consciousness, and occasionally loss of bowel control. While frightening to witness, seizures are usually manageable with anti-epileptic medications once properly diagnosed. Addison's disease, where the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate hormones, occurs more frequently in Poodles than many breeds, causing symptoms including lethargy, vomiting, weakness, and potentially life-threatening crises if untreated. Once diagnosed, the condition is manageable with hormone replacement therapy. Bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus represents a serious emergency in deep-chested breeds like Standard Poodles, where the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists, cutting off blood supply. Feeding multiple smaller meals, avoiding vigorous exercise around mealtimes, and considering preventative gastropexy surgery can reduce risk. Thyroid conditions including hypothyroidism may affect Poodles, impacting metabolism and requiring lifelong medication. Von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, has been documented in the breed. Working with health-conscious breeders who perform comprehensive genetic testing and health screenings on all breeding stock, providing appropriate nutrition and exercise, maintaining excellent grooming practices to detect skin issues early, and ensuring regular veterinary care including screening for breed-specific conditions provides the best foundation for these intelligent, devoted companions to enjoy long, healthy lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Bich-poo may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Bichon Frise and Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.