10 Things to Know Before Buying a Poochon Puppy

The Poochon is a charming hybrid dog, a delightful cross between a Bichon Frise and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This petite, curly-coated dog combines traits from both breeds, offering a unique personality and appearance. While they share some similarities with other small, curly-coated dogs, Poochons have distinct traits that potential owners should understand before welcoming one home.

Below are ten important things you need to know about the Poochon before buying one, designed to help you make a well-informed, responsible decision.

1. The Poochon is a Crossbreed, not a Pedigree

The Poochon is a hybrid dog, not recognised as a formal pedigree breed by the UK Kennel Club, meaning it lacks a set breed standard. It results from pairing a Bichon Frise with a Toy or Miniature Poodle, each contributing roughly 50% to the dog’s ancestry. As such, Poochon puppies may inherit a mix of traits from their parent breeds, making their size, temperament, and appearance somewhat variable.

2. Distinct Parent Breeds Affect Temperament

Though the Poochon’s parents have similar curly coats, the Bichon Frise and Poodle differ in personality. Poodles rank as one of the most intelligent dog breeds and tend to be energetic and alert, while Bichons are affectionate and cheerful but slightly less intense. Consequently, a Poochon’s temperament can range between these traits and requires careful understanding by prospective owners.

3. Small Size and Versatility

Poochons are small dogs, typically weighing between 6 to 17 pounds and standing about 9 to 15 inches tall. They offer versatility, adapting well to apartment living or homes with gardens, making them suitable for various lifestyles.

4. The Cost of a Poochon is Higher Than Many Non-Pedigree Dogs

Despite being a crossbreed, Poochons tend to demand a relatively high price on the UK market. On average, adverts on Pets4Homes show prices around £700 to £2,000. This reflects their growing popularity and hypoallergenic coat qualities, but buyers should budget for this investment responsibly.

5. Trainability is Generally Good

Benefiting from their Poodle heritage, Poochons are generally intelligent and responsive to training. They learn commands quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement, making them suitable even for first-time dog owners who commit time to consistent training and socialisation.

6. Coat Characteristics and Allergy Considerations

Their medium-length, tight curls shed minimally, often caught within the coat rather than dropped around the home. This can make Poochons a good option for some allergy sufferers, although no dog is truly hypoallergenic and individual reactions vary. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and maintain coat health.

7. Grooming Needs Are Substantial

Poochons require frequent brushing, ideally daily to every other day, to keep their curly coat in good condition and free of tangles. Many owners rely on professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks, including trims such as the Teddy Bear or Puppy cuts to maintain manageable fur length. Routine nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are vital components of their upkeep.

8. Potential Prone Health Issues, Especially Allergies

While hybrid vigour often reduces health problems, Poochons can inherit predispositions from their parents, such as skin allergies and dental issues, particularly from the Bichon side. Regular veterinary care and buying from responsible, health-aware breeders who test their breeding stock are critical to minimise risks.

9. Exercise Requirements Are Moderate but Kindling

Despite their small size, Poochons have lively temperaments and need at least 30 to 45 minutes of varied exercise daily. This includes brisk walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them happy and prevent behavioural issues linked to boredom.

10. Suitable for a Variety of Owners but Not Very Young Children

The Poochon’s adaptable nature makes them a good choice for singles, seniors, and families with older children. Their exercise and grooming needs mean that potential owners should plan for ongoing care responsibly. They are not typically recommended for families with very young or boisterous children due to their delicate frame and grooming demands.

What to Prepare Before Bringing a Poochon Home

Before bringing a Poochon puppy home, ensure you have the essentials: a comfortable dog bed, appropriate-sized food and water bowls, nutritious puppy food formulated for small breeds, a crate or playpen for training, collar and leash with ID tag, and grooming supplies including brushes and nail clippers. Toys for mental stimulation and chewing are also important to keep your puppy engaged and happy.

How to Choose a Responsible Poochon Breeder

Since Poochons are not eligible for Kennel Club registration, it’s vital to find reputable breeders who prioritise health testing, proper socialisation, and ethical breeding practices. Avoid puppy farms and sellers without transparency. Ask breeders for health clearances of parent dogs and references from previous buyers.

Summary

The Poochon is a loving, intelligent hybrid dog with a hypoallergenic coat and small size, well-suited to many lifestyles in the UK. It requires commitment to grooming, daily exercise, and training to thrive happily. Prospective owners should research thoroughly, prepare properly, and choose responsible breeders to ensure a happy lifelong companion.

For those thinking about finding a Poochon puppy, this guide emphasises the joys and responsibilities of ownership, helping you make an informed and compassionate choice.