Bich-poos, A bichon Frise and MIni redPoodle cross

 The Bichpoo was first bred in Australia in the late 1990s, and has become extremely popular in its homeland in the years since. Breeders, captivated by the charm and playful spirit of both poodles and bichon frisés, decided to combine their best qualities. Looking to combine the traits that make both parent breeds excellent companions, including the desirable low-shedding coat that both carry, resulted in the  adorable bichpoo, a designer dog that quickly stole hearts around the world.  Crossbreeding is also done as much to soften negative characteristics, and Bichpoos do tend to be less clingy than Bichons, and sturdier than the Miniature and Toy Poodles, who can be somewhat delicate.

 The Bich-poo is described as a social butterfly with a "velcro" personality. They inherit the Poodle’s sharp wit and the Bichon’s cheerful, clownish nature. They make some of the best dogs for seniors and young ones alike, thanks to their appealing demeanor and love of attention. Bichpoos’ endearing personalities make them ideal options for people who have a lot of time to devote to their pets. 

Bichpoos are typically very healthy dogs who they enjoy a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years. In some cases, they even live to be 18 or more. The  few health issues they can encounter throughout their life include patellar luxation, vision-related problems (most common in old age), teeth issues, skin allergies, and ear infections, all of which are common in all small dog breeds.   

While the coat type can vary, all Bichpoos need regular brushing – at least three or four times a week. The nature of their hair also means they need to be washed every few weeks with a gentle dog shampoo. A professional groomer can advise on the frequency at which to clip the coat, and whether a Poodle- or Bichon-style cut will best suit the individual dog.  It’s essential to also maintain their dental hygiene and check their ears regularly to prevent infections.

Part of the bichpoo’s appeal is their tiny size. These canines don’t need a sprawling backyard or huge fields to run in. In fact, they’re the perfect pup for apartment living! These little ones are right at home in a small space and can easily snuggle on the couch or a little pillow. Because bichpoos still need plenty of exercise, you’ll need to make sure to take them on plenty of walks or even runs at the dog park. They pack a surprising amount of energy into their tiny frames! They are known for their sudden burst of energy, which can appear to catch them unawares throughout the day, so it is important to also keep toys around the house to provide entertainment when needed.