Bich-poo (Poochon) Breed Information and Pictures - Tiny Tracks

Bich-poo Breed

Standard Bich-poo Characteristics

Cross: Bichon Frise, Poodle

Alternative Names: Poochon, Bichpoo

Nick Names:

Height: Variable

Weight: Variable

Color: White, gray, black, chocolate

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Description & Appearance:

Bich-poos (or Poochons as they are sometimes called) are a hybrid dog crossed from a Bichon Frise and a Poodle.

Temperament:

The general temperament of Bich-poos is happy, playful and energetic. They enjoy walks around town and trips to the dog park. This breed can be extremely bright and resourceful. They pick up tricks and other behaviors quickly. Housebreaking comes quickly. They�re watchdog ability is good, but friendly and mild-mannered if you let a stranger in.

Health:

Bich-poos have no known genetic problems yet. As this popular mixed breed becomes more prevalent, signs of its genetic robustness will become clearer, but as it goes with mixed breeds, they�re generally healthier than pure breeds.

Bich-poos in good health can live up to 15 years of age.

Care & Grooming:

Bich-poos and Poochons shed very little. They also produce very little dander, a plus for allergy sufferers. They do have a full coat of hair however. Many owners have their Bich-poos trimmed regularly by a professional groomer to keep the hair from matting. This mix needs the occasional brushing to keep the coat clean. Bathe as necessary, but not often.

Bich-poos are good indoor dogs and thrive well in apartments. Like the Bichon Frise and Poodle, they are quite active and enjoy the occasional walks and romps through the park.

History:

As a hybrid breed, their history is short. Generally, Bich-poo breeders aim to breed one generation of Bich-poo from purebred Bichon Frise and Poodle parents. This is to take advantage of �hybrid vigor� and the Heterosis effect which results in a healthier, more vigorous dog with a reduced chance of genetic disease. Pure breeds and inbreeds often carry genetic disease. Heterosis is the phenomenon where crossing two inbred lines can yeild a progeny with superior genetic constitution. This increased health and vigor does not create a superior breed, but the advantages obtained from it is what produces hybrid vigor. This goal in this scenario is not to create a new breed, but to create a happy and healthy pet.