Poochon Breed Information

Grooming 

The Poochon’s coat is one of its standout features—soft, curly, and low-shedding—but it also comes with a fair amount of upkeep. As a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Miniature or Toy Poodle, the Poochon inherits a coat that’s not only adorable but also prone to tangling if not properly maintained. 

Most Poochons have a dense, curly or wavy coat that requires frequent brushing, ideally several times per week. This helps prevent mats from forming, especially in areas like behind the ears, under the arms, and along the chest where friction tends to cause knots. A slicker brush or comb designed for curly coats works well to keep the fur smooth and manageable without pulling on the skin. 

While shedding is minimal, the coat continues to grow, which means professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is typically necessary. These sessions usually include a bath, a trim or haircut, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and a sanitary trim. Many owners choose a shorter “teddy bear” or “puppy” cut to make daily brushing easier and give the dog a neat, youthful appearance. 

Bathing should be done every few weeks at home, depending on your dog’s activity level and environment. A mild, dog-specific shampoo helps keep the coat clean without irritating the skin. Always dry the coat thoroughly to avoid lingering moisture near the skin, which could lead to irritation or yeast buildup. 

Ear care is especially important in Poochons due to their floppy, low-hanging ears. These can trap moisture and debris, creating a warm environment where infections may develop. Checking the ears weekly and cleaning them with a gentle solution when needed can help prevent problems. 

Dental hygiene is another key part of the Poochon’s grooming routine. Small breeds like this are more prone to tartar buildup, so brushing their teeth several times a week is recommended. Starting early helps make the process easier over time. 

Nail trimming should be done regularly—usually every 3 to 4 weeks. Overgrown nails can affect the dog’s gait and comfort, especially on hard floors. If you can hear nails clicking as your Poochon walks, it’s time for a trim. 

Exercise Needs 

The Poochon may be small in size, but it comes with a good dose of energy and curiosity. A blend of the alert Miniature or Toy Poodle and the bouncy Bichon Frise, this breed thrives on daily activity—though it doesn’t require anything extreme. For most Poochons, a mix of light exercise and playful engagement is enough to keep both body and mind satisfied. 

In terms of routine, 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day is generally ideal. This can include walks around the neighborhood, indoor play sessions, or games like fetch in the backyard. Poochons tend to enjoy short bursts of activity rather than long endurance outings, so multiple shorter walks throughout the day often suit them better than one long session. 

They also enjoy a bit of variety. Visits to the park, puzzle toys, and playdates with other friendly dogs can all help keep your Poochon mentally and physically stimulated. Though small, they are agile and often excel at interactive games and simple agility activities—especially when rewards are involved. 

Mental exercise is just as important. This breed is intelligent and needs more than just physical movement to stay balanced. Puzzle feeders, scent games, and training refreshers not only entertain them but also help prevent boredom-related behaviors like barking or chewing. 

Poochons are usually quite in tune with their environment, and their energy levels adjust accordingly. A more active household might bring out their bolder, more spirited side, while a quieter home may help them settle into a calmer rhythm. Regardless of the pace, they do best when they’re not left alone for extended periods and have outlets for their energy throughout the day. 

Although they don’t need intense workouts, regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, preventing restlessness, and supporting good behavior. A well-exercised Poochon is more likely to be content, relaxed, and ready to snuggle at the end of the day. 

Health 

The Poochon is generally a healthy and hardy breed, especially when responsibly bred and properly cared for. As a mix between the Bichon Frise and the Miniature or Toy Poodle, this designer dog benefits from hybrid vigor, which can reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions that sometimes affect purebred lines. That said, like all dogs, Poochons have their own set of health needs that owners should be aware of. 

One of the more common health considerations for small mixed breeds like the Poochon is dental care. Due to their compact jaws, they can be prone to tartar buildup and early tooth loss if oral hygiene isn’t part of their routine. Regular brushing at home, along with professional cleanings when needed, helps keep their teeth and gums in good shape. 

Allergies can also occur in some Poochons, typically manifesting as mild skin irritation or occasional ear issues. These are usually manageable with routine grooming, proper diet, and attention to environmental triggers. If a Poochon starts scratching more than usual or develops red patches, it’s worth discussing with a vet to determine the cause. 

Patellar luxation, or loose kneecaps, is something to watch for in many small breeds. It ranges from mild to moderate and often doesn’t interfere with daily life, especially if the dog maintains a healthy weight and gets the right kind of low-impact exercise. 

Other things to monitor include ear cleanliness and skin health, both of which are linked to the Poochon’s dense, curly coat. Because their ears hang down and their fur can trap moisture, checking them weekly and drying the coat thoroughly after baths helps prevent discomfort and potential infections. 

The Poochon’s health can be very manageable with regular check-ups, a balanced diet, consistent grooming, and plenty of activity. Most Poochons live long, active lives, often into their mid to late teens, especially when cared for thoughtfully. 

Routine wellness care—including vaccinations, parasite prevention, and yearly vet visits—goes a long way in keeping your Poochon feeling their best. When their physical needs are met, they tend to be happy, active, and ready for whatever the day brings. 

Lifespan 

The Poochon is known for its longevity, with most dogs living between 12 to 15 years—and some even reaching beyond that with attentive care and a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to their small size and the relatively strong genetic background of both the Miniature or Toy Poodle and the Bichon Frise, Poochons often enjoy a full and active life well into their senior years. 

How long a Poochon lives depends on a few key factors, including diet, exercise, genetics, and preventive health care. Dogs that maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and receive regular veterinary check-ups are more likely to avoid common issues that can shorten a dog’s life. 

Another big contributor to the Poochon’s life expectancy is lifestyle. These dogs do best in homes where they feel secure, mentally stimulated, and closely bonded with their people. Daily interaction, routine activity, and a stable environment help reduce stress and keep them happy, which often translates into better long-term health. 

As they age, Poochons may slow down a bit, but many remain playful and engaged well into their senior years. Monitoring for subtle changes—like differences in energy level, appetite, or behavior—can help catch early signs of age-related conditions. Keeping up with routine wellness checks becomes even more important during these later stages. 

Small dogs like the Poochon tend to benefit from having owners who are proactive about grooming, dental care, and joint support, especially as they grow older. These routines not only help prevent health problems but also ensure the dog stays comfortable and mobile over time. 

Training 

Training a Poochon is generally a smooth and rewarding experience, thanks to their sharp minds and eagerness to please. With intelligence coming from both the Poodle and Bichon Frise, these dogs pick up new cues quickly and thrive when they’re given structure and positive guidance. 

The best results come from early and consistent training, especially during puppyhood when routines and boundaries are easier to establish. Basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come usually stick after a few short, focused sessions. Their strong desire to interact with their humans makes them naturally inclined to engage during training time. 

Positive reinforcement works exceptionally well with this breed. Poochons respond enthusiastically to rewards like small treats, verbal praise, or favorite toys. They do not respond well to harsh correction or loud tones, and a firm but friendly approach yields far better results. A calm, encouraging tone paired with short, engaging sessions helps hold their attention and builds trust. 

Socialization is just as important as basic obedience. Introducing your Poochon to a variety of people, places, and experiences early on helps shape a confident, well-adjusted adult dog. Without proper exposure, some Poochons may develop timid or overly excitable tendencies—especially when faced with unfamiliar situations. 

Crate training and housebreaking typically go smoothly with consistency and patience. Since Poochons are clean by nature, they usually adapt well to potty routines, especially when outings are scheduled regularly and rewarded. 

Training also plays a vital role in managing barking behaviors, which can surface if the dog becomes bored or anxious. Teaching commands like “quiet” or redirecting attention with toys and mental challenges can reduce excess vocalizing. It’s also helpful to understand what’s triggering the barking—whether it’s attention-seeking, alertness, or boredom—and respond appropriately. 

For owners who enjoy continued training or dog sports, the Poochon’s intelligence and energy lend themselves well to activities like agility, trick training, or even light scent work. They enjoy learning and feel proud when they master something new.