Bichpoo Full Grown: Size, Lifespan, Price & More
The Bichpoo is a mixed breed dog resulting from breeding the Bichon Frise and the Poodle. As a hybrid dog, the Bichpoo can vary in appearance depending on which parent breed they take after more. This guide will cover everything you need to know about what to expect from your Bichpoo once they reach full growth.
About the Bichpoo Breed
The Bichpoo is a small companion dog known for being affectionate, gentle, and playful. They bond closely with their human families and do best in a home as the only pet or with other dogs. Bichpoos are easily trainable and enjoy pleasing their owners.
Size at Full Growth
On average, a fully grown Bichpoo will stand 8-12 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 8-18 pounds. However, size can vary considerably based on parentage. Bichpoos that take after the smaller Bichon Frise parent will likely be on the smaller end of the size range, while those leaning more towards the Poodle side may be a bit larger.
Weight at Full Growth
Most Bichpoos will reach their full adult weight between 1-2 years of age. The average weight range for a fully grown Bichpoo is 8-18 pounds. Smaller females often max out around 10-12 pounds, while larger males sometimes top 18 pounds. Proper nutrition is important for healthy growth and development.
Appearance at Full Growth
The coat of a fully grown Bichpoo will be soft and fluffy. Colors typically include shades of cream, white, tan, brown or black. The hair is non-shedding and low-maintenance.
Bichpoos have long, floppy ears and dark, expressive eyes. Their tails are well-feathered. Overall, Bichpoos have an adorable, teddy bear-like appearance.
Personality at Full Growth
As companion dogs, Bichpoos are affectionate, playful, and loyal companions once fully matured. They bond closely with their owners and crave human interaction and attention. Bichpoos generally get along well with other dogs and pets in the home. Their even temperament and gentle nature make them a good choice for families with children.
Price
On average, pet owners can expect to pay between $1000-$3000 for a well-bred Bichpoo puppy from a reputable breeder. Prices may vary depending on gender, coat color, breeding lines, and availability in your area. Be wary of unusually low prices, as quality health testing is important for this hybrid breed.
Food/Feeding
As adults, Bichpoos have moderate calorie needs. A fully grown Bichpoo should be fed 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry kibble per day, divided into two meals. Always consult your vet for the specific calorie guidelines tailored to your dog's age, size and activity level. The key is to keep them trim but not bony as an adult.
Lifespan
With proper care, Bichpoos have a long lifespan like their Poodle parent. On average, owners can expect their fully grown Bichpoo to live 12-15 years. High-quality nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative healthcare all help maximize their healthy life expectancy.
Health at Full Growth
As adults, Bichpoos remain generally healthy. However, they are prone to some of the same conditions as their parent breeds, such as eye problems, allergies, hip dysplasia, and collapsed trachea. Regular vet checkups can help diagnose and treat any emerging health issues early. Dental care is also important for oral health as they age.
Care and Nutritional Needs
At full size, Bichpoos are low-shedding but their coats still require regular brushing 1-2 times per week to distribute natural oils and prevent matting. Their nails also need clipping every 4-6 weeks. Bichpoos enjoy daily walks/play for mental and physical stimulation. As companion dogs, they benefit from regular human interaction and training through adulthood.
Cost of Ownership
Beyond the initial purchase price, the average annual cost to care for a fully grown Bichpoo ranges from $700-1000 per year. This includes routine vet care like checkups, tests, vaccines, flea/tick prevention, food, grooming supplies, toys and miscellaneous other expenses.
Possible Behavioral Changes
In some cases, Bichpoos may show new behavioral tendencies as they reach maturity that didn't appear as puppies. This may include stranger anxiety/fearfulness, same-sex dog aggression, separation anxiety if left alone, or reactivity to other pets/animals. Early socialization and training is key to help mitigate undesirable behaviors.
Notable Characteristics
Several traits stand out about the Bichpoo breed at full size. They have a teddy bear-like appearance with soft fluffy coats and a gentle, affectionate demeanor. Bichpoos love human companionship and bond closely with their families. They are highly trainable and thrive as indoor household pets.
When is a Bichpoo Considered Fully Grown?
On average, most Bichpoo puppies are considered fully grown and have reached their adult size between 12-18 months of age. However, some larger males may continue filling out physically until around 2 years old. The growth plates in their bones typically fuse by 18 months, signaling skeletal maturity.
Suitability as a Family Pet
With their affectionate nature and small stature, Bichpoos generally make excellent family pets once fully grown. As long as they receive proper early socialization and training, their gentle temperaments make them a good choice for homes with children ages 7+. Their low-shedding coats also work well for owners with allergies. Regular exercise and stimulation are important to keep a Bichpoo happy as an indoor pet.