Pet Wiki

Poochon

Also called Bichpoo, Bich-poo, Bichon-poo, Bichoodle

CrossbreedShort profile

From Australia, late 1990s; later popular in the UK and US.1

At a glance the quick version

Weight2.7 to 7.7 kg12
Height23 to 38 cm1
Lifespan12 to 15 years1
Sizesmall

6-17 lb; crosses with a Standard Poodle are larger.

loving and devoted
smart and easy to train
friendly with people and pets
12

Coat and looks how to spot one

curly, wavy or fluffy; low-shedding

A small, cuddly dog with a soft, dense coat that may be curly, wavy or fluffy. The coat sheds very little.12

Colourswhitecreamapricotblackgreychocolatesilver12

Personality what they are like

A sweet, affectionate and playful little dog that is deeply devoted to its family. Poochons are clever and quick to pick up new commands, sociable with people and other animals, and sensitive souls who love being included.12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Daily walks and play, and they enjoy light agility or games that keep their minds busy.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush 3-4 times a week to keep the coat tangle-free, with a professional trim every 4-6 weeks. Regular ear cleaning, nail trims and tooth brushing round it off.1

Home where they are happiest

Happy in flats, family homes or with single owners, as long as it gets company and mental stimulation.1

Company who they like around

Loves being with its people. Gets on well with children and other pets when socialised early.12

The story where it all began

Breeders in Australia started deliberately crossing Bichon Frises with Poodles in the late 1990s, and the mix soon caught on in the UK and the United States. Most are bred with Toy or Miniature Poodles, though crosses with Standard Poodles produce a bigger dog.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The Poochon was first bred on purpose in Australia in the late 1990s.1

  2. 2

    All five main designer-dog registries list this cross under the name Poochon.2

  3. 3

    A Poochon's coat colour and markings can change as it grows up.2

  4. 4

    Owners often describe Poochons as quiet dogs that bark little.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Poochon' is a portmanteau combining 'Poodle' and 'Bichon Frise', reflecting its parent breeds. It is also known as 'Bichpoo', a similar blend of 'Bichon' and 'Poodle'.3

Name ideas for your new friend

BiscuitCocoPippinMaisieCharlieLolaTeddyRubyZiggyPennyMiloDaisy

A day in the life told by a Poochon

Today started with a cuddle on the couch, my favorite way to wake up. My human gave me a little puzzle toy, and I figured it out in no time. Then we went for a walk, and I greeted every dog and person with a wagging tail. In the park, I did a little zoomie circle just to show my happiness. Back home, I practiced a new trick for a treat. My human says I'm the smartest, and I agree. Tonight, I'll curl up in their lap for a movie. It's a good life.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Major kennel clubs
Not recognised by major kennel clubs as a breed; it is a crossbreed.2
Designer/hybrid registries
Listed by American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), Dog Registry of America (DRA), International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR). All list it under the name Poochon.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Poochon. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Poochon, and at what times?

Feed your adult Poochon at least two meals a day at consistent times, such as morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals spread throughout the day. Check the food label for portion sizes and ask your vet for a schedule tailored to your dog's age and activity.4

What should a Poochon eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed your Poochon a high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and age. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet if you suspect your dog has eaten something harmful.5

How often should I bathe a Poochon?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, while general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Adjust based on how dirty your dog gets or if they have skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid overbathing to keep their coat healthy.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Poochon need brushing?

The breed information recommends brushing 3-4 times a week to prevent tangles and mats, while Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing. Their low-shedding coat benefits from regular brushing to keep it soft and clean. Choose a schedule that works for your dog's coat type.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Poochon's nails, and how often?

Trim your Poochon's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, roughly every 4 weeks according to Furry Diary's plan. Use a dog nail clipper and cut small bits at a time, stopping before the pink quick. If you're unsure, ask your vet or groomer to show you how.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Poochon need?

Your Poochon needs daily walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy. They also enjoy light agility or puzzle games to keep their mind busy. About 30 minutes of activity per day is a good starting point, but adjust based on their energy level.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Poochon's teeth and ears?

Brush your Poochon's teeth at least two to three times a week using dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check their ears every two weeks for dirt or redness, and clean with a vet-recommended solution. Never insert anything into the ear canal, and ask your vet for a dental checkup annually.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Poochon live?

A Poochon typically lives between 12 and 15 years with good care. Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and plenty of love help them enjoy a long, happy life.1

Is a Poochon good with children and other pets?

Yes, Poochons are sociable and get along well with children and other pets, especially when socialised early. They are affectionate and playful, making them wonderful family companions. Always supervise interactions with very young children to ensure gentle handling.12

Can a Poochon be left alone?

Poochons are sensitive and love being with their people, so they don't do well left alone for long periods. They need companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often. If you're away during the day, consider a dog sitter or daycare to keep them happy.12

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Parents and lookalikes

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Dogtime: Poochon dogtime.comused for size, lifespan, coat, colours, temperament, exercise, grooming, origin
  2. Dog Breed Info: Bich-poo dogbreedinfo.comused for other names, registries, coat, temperament, Standard Poodle crosses
  3. petful.com petful.com
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-10-01. Text is written in our own words from these sources.