Bichon Yorkie

6-8 lbs
9-12"
Unknown
Bichon Frise
Yorkshire Terrier
The Bichon Yorkie is a hybrid breed created by crossing a Bichon Frise and a Yorkshire Terrier. Bred in the United States, this dog has become a loved family companion. This is a toy-sized burst of energy who is curious, independent, and absolutely loyal. With moderate grooming needs, and an intelligence fit for training, this alert dog is suited for many environments. The Bichon Yorkie is known for its high pitched bark, which she may use to guard your family and home. Good socialization and early training can curb bad behaviors and ensure she gets along well with people and pets.
purpose Purpose
Companion
history Date of Origin
Recent
ancestry Ancestry
Bichon Frise, Pomeranian

Bichon Yorkie Health

Average Size
Male Bichon Yorkie size stats
Height: 9-12 inches Weight: 6-8 lbs
Female Bichon Yorkie size stats
Height: 9-12 inches Weight: 6-8 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Minor Concerns
  • Dental Problems
  • Eye Conditions
Occasional Tests
  • X-Rays
  • Eye Examination
  • Thyroid Testing
  • Dental and Oral Examinations

Bichon Yorkie Breed History

The true beginning of the Bichon Yorkie is not well documented, but we do know that it is a crossbreed of the Bichon Frise and Yorkshire Terrier. This hybrid breed created in the United States is not recognized by the AKC. The Bichon Yorkie is recognized by other organizations, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Breed Registry (DBR). The Bichon Frise descended from a Mediterranean breed called the Barbet. This was a medium sized water dog with woolly fur which was also referred to as a barbichon. At some point, the dogs were taken to one of the Canary Islands, Tenerife, most likely by Spanish or Portuguese traders. In the 14th century, French, Italian, or Spanish sailors brought them to Europe. Other sources say that the Bichon Frise was developed in Italy and was brought to France by soldiers in the 1500s. Either way, they were popular in royal courts in France, England, and Spain, and were counted as favorites by such famous rulers as King Francis I of France and King Henry III of England. By the late 1800s, the Bichon Frise fell out of favor, and began to be used by circus performers and to help lead the blind. After World War I, French breeders worked to preserve the breed, and adopted an official standard in 1933. At this point in time, the breed went by the names Tenerife and Bichon. Bichon Frise is an anglicized version of the French name that translated as ‘Bichon with the curly coat.’ By 1956, the Bichon Frise came to the United States, where it was recognized by the AKC in 1971. In a sharp contrast, the Yorkshire Terrier was a dog of the working class. 19th century Scottish workers brought a dog, then called the Paisley Terrier or the Clydesdale Terrier, with them when they came looking for work in Yorkshire, England. The dog was crossed with other Terriers to create a much smaller dog that was used for catching rats in the mills where their owners worked. By 1870, the new breed was named Yorkshire Terriers for the place where they were developed. The first record of a Yorkshire Terrier in the United States dates from 1872. Yorkshire Terriers were recognized by the AKC in 1885.

Bichon Yorkie Breed Appearance

The Bichon Yorkie is a toy sized breed, much like the Bichon Frise and Yorkshire Terrier from which it was bred. The compact and well-proportioned body of the Bichon Yorkie boasts a round head with round, dark eyes. The ears can be like either parent breed, and can stand upright or hang down. A blunt muzzle ends in a black nose, and the tail is long. The coat shows the most similarities to the parent breeds, and can exhibit either set of characteristic features. A Bichon Yorkie could have long, silky hair like the Yorkshire Terrier, or the dense, soft, curly hair of the Bichon Frise that resembles a fluffy snowball. Colors can also vary between dogs, and can come in combinations of white, cream, golden, gray, blue, brown, or black.

Bichon Yorkie Breed Maintenance

Though a hypoallergenic breed, the Bichon Yorkie can shed quite a bit, and will benefit from a brushing up to three times a week. The occasional trip to the groomer can provide a trim or strip her fur, and trim the hair around her face and eyes too. The Bichon Yorkie is not known to smell, but an occasional bath when needed will keep her looking and smelling great. Pay particular attention to her nails, which will need a regular trimming, and her ears and teeth. Keep her ears clean and free of hair to prevent ear infections, and routinely provide dental care to halt gum infections.

Bichon Frises and Yorkies often suffer from patellar luxation, cataracts, and hip dysplasia. Secure pet health insurance today to avoid high veterinary care costs. Brought to you by Pet Insurer, Wag! Wellness lets pet parents compare insurance plans from leading companies like FIGO and Spot. Find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!

Bichon Yorkie Activity Requirements

The Bichon Yorkie shares many of the characteristics of its parent breeds, specifically its highly curious and energetic nature. This is an independent dog who still wants to spend a lot of time with her owners. While you may find the curiosity of the Bichon Yorkie will lead her to explore everything, she still wants to be close to her favorite person at all times. She is playful and intelligent, and can get along famously with children. Little ones should be taught how to handle this tiny dog, however, and should be supervised when in contact with her as she easily be hurt. The Bichon Yorkie has a high prey drive and can challenge larger animals. She can get along with other pets so long as she receives proper socialization. This dog can be a good watch dog, but has a high-pitched bark which can get out of hand if proper training isn’t implemented. These are very smart dogs who are easy to train, and obedience classes can help curb any negative behaviors. The Bichon Yorkie is a highly energetic dog, but the exercise demands for this breed are low.

Bichon Yorkie Owner Experiences

Cooper
8 Weeks
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We just got him.we have a dashound and a chi
7 years, 1 month ago
Kona
4 years old
2 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking playing fetch
Thus little dog is smart , intelligent , loyal, loving and very caring . She always is at my feet and making sure that I am alright. She has taken advance training classes and is now in process in taking classes for an “Emotional Support “ dog. She is truly my stress reliever and calms me during panic and anxiety attacks. She watches over me and is truly an amazing watch dog and companion. Yes, she us a hunter!! This summer she was chasing gophers away from our yard, after 2 weeks they were gone!!! Kona knows when it’s time to play , work, or just be my companion . She knows about the time my husband comes hime from work and is waiting at the door. she will let me know when. One one is st the door. She knows when I need help and will not leave my side until I tell her I am ok. She is an amazing dog and I often say that there is an “angel” inside her ! I love my dog❤️
7 years, 1 month ago
Ellie
8 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
She is very lovable and loves people. She has to meet everyone. Plays at dog park with her best buddies. Lidnsey and Meg
7 years ago
Enzo
1 year and a half
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very pleased with mix. Loves playing with our 4 children. Very well behaved. Very high pitched bark when guarding family and house. Extremely friendly with people and other dogs.
7 years ago
Lottie
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Socialising with other dogs
Running
Squeaky chase
Lottie has to be slowly introduced to men as she's a bit nervous around them, but she's loyal and loves my son from the 1st tome she met him, she is nervous around bigger breeds she also loves to sleep under the christmas tree!
6 years, 11 months ago
Ellie
7 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Loyal like crazy to the family. Very protective of the house; not afraid to stand up to the neighbor Bernese Mtn dog! Has arthritic knee and limits her running abilities since about 6 yrs old. Very loving dog, buy cautious with strangers. Love this one!!
5 years, 1 month ago
ALEX
3 Years
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is the most loving dog I ever had. He barks at strangers but quickly warms up to them. He loves the big front window to catch up on outside activities and absolutely loves his walks.
6 years, 9 months ago
Pebbles
1 Year
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
She came to us from another home almost 5months now she's at present going through phantom pregnancy when I put her bed at night she's banging off door she's very clingy to me
6 years, 9 months ago
Lola
2 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Play keep away
She is very affectionate. She never barks. Hates squeeky toys. Very loveable
6 years, 8 months ago
Doris
16 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Playing in the snow
Walking
My little darling is so loving and friendly with everyone she meets
6 years, 7 months ago
Bruce Wayne
8 Weeks
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He’s the smartest most well behaved dog I’ve ever owned. Sleeps well at nice already wee wee pad trained and so cuddly. He’s a little feisty with my older cocker spaniel, he just wants to play.
6 years, 7 months ago
Tessa
4 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Play
Laying in the sun
Lazing
She is extremely friendly with those she knows well but can be very unfriendly with those she doesn't know so well. Mostly is great with other dogs but is very protective of our other dog and in some cases can come off as aggressive towards dogs approaching our other dog. This has never been a big issue because she is very obedient. She's also always been great with children and good with cats/other animals, gets along especially well with our house rabbit.
6 years, 6 months ago
Cassie
15 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I love her so much I’ve know her science I was little
6 years, 5 months ago
Sprocket
9 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Great with family and friends
6 years, 5 months ago
Baby Belle
10 Weeks
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Wonderful. Instantly took to me and is constantly by my side
5 years, 7 months ago
Ziggy
1 Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing fetch
Cuddling
go on walks
play in the yard
He’s an incredibly loyal dog and loves to play!
6 years, 3 months ago
Dixie Cup
13 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She is a great dog. A good traveller. Doesn't let us out of her sight when we're getting ready to leave. She has been a healthy dog until getting diagnosed with Cushing's this past Winter but she is doing good. She still looks like a little puppy.
6 years, 2 months ago
Johnny
10 Weeks
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I have no prior experience
6 years, 1 month ago
Luna
1 Year
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Playing
cuddle
Extremely fast learner, stubborn, playfull, and likes to stick her head in garbage can when she is alone.
6 years, 1 month ago
Zoe
9 Years
7 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very independent and protective of the family and house, she is a backyard dog and loves "hunting" and protecting outside. Doesn't like to be constricted by doors/ harnesses/crates and will escape at all costs. Private about eating and gets anxious when her bowls are moved from the same spot they've been for 9 years. Isn't interested in toys but loves stinky/flavourful bones to chew on. Prefers to sleep on things that smell like owners (clothing, blankets). Sleeps outside the bedroom of family members who are sick or sad.
5 years, 8 months ago
Bailey
6 Months
6 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go on Vacation
Walk
Run
Look out the window
Play
Play keep away
Tug-of-war
Chase
Dog Parks
This is our first experience with a small dog and all six of us love it. She is only six months but she has already learned some tricks and has fun getting to know other people and dogs at the dog park.
5 years, 8 months ago
Teddy Bear
4 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase
Loves playing fetch, going for walks. Good watchdog. Goes crazy over the Mailman.
5 years, 6 months ago
Ivy
12 Weeks
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
So far it has been amazing! She is a tiny little thing so it’s tough to make sure you don’t step on her! She is loving, energetic and playful.
5 years, 6 months ago
Caleb
7 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very affectionate, intelligent, energetic, fun loving, very loyal to owner, tends to be more of a one-person doggie but friendly to everyone. Caleb is challenged by large dogs.
5 years, 5 months ago
Cooper
13 Weeks
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I love this little guy. He is a little ball of energy. So lovable
5 years, 3 months ago
Jasmine
3 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running
She is very sweet to everyone and puppy pad trained the first night.
5 years, 2 months ago
ginger
2 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walks
she is fun and very active dog, loves to take walks and love her playmate a 7 year old golden lab
5 years, 2 months ago
Conway
10 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch,
Tug-of-war
Running
Conway was a rescue when he was under a year old. We did a doggie DNA test to determine his breed. He is extremely affectionate and is codependent on my husband who works from home. He loves long walks but as he is aging he can’t go as far. He barely sheds, has the coloring of a Yorkie and the curl of a Bischon. We have a lot of teeth problems. Within the last year he had a lot of health issues starting with his liver and now he is diabetic. He has the best personality, an annoying but adorable howling bark and loyalty for days.
4 years, 11 months ago
Pupee
11 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I am 50 years old and have had boxers, poodles, dobermans, labs, pits....she is the entire package of a great companion!!!
4 years, 11 months ago
Bandit
6 Weeks
1 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I have a four-year-old male neutered Bichon and this is my first Bichon Yorkie. I hope they will be pals and looking forward to a bright future with my two boys!!
4 years, 11 months ago
Senator Charles
6 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Seeing him every morning when we wake
4 years, 10 months ago
Gyubee
3 Months
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
training
Walks on trails
A very feisty dog, but I love his personality. We are 3 engineering students and Gyubee has had an amazing impact on our lives
4 years, 8 months ago
Coco
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hike
Tug-of-war
Run
I adopted Coco from a shelter and she was extremely friendly and healthy. We play a lot and I really love having Coco. She is a good Bichon Yorkie.
4 years, 5 months ago
Pepper
13 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fishing
Walks
My Bichon Yorkie is 13 and a half years old. She is a great dog. Very friendly with people but she is a bit dog aggressive. She has some health problems now that she’s older (pancreatitis, fatty lumps, teeth problems) but she still wants to play and go for walks most of the time. Pepper weighs around 16 pounds.
4 years, 4 months ago
Bailey
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Bailey loves to play hide and seek
Bailey is such a good boy! Excellent watchdog, very bright and great companion. Loves riding in the car and wrestling his older Maltese brother Peetey. We love him!!
4 years, 4 months ago
Tofu
13 Weeks
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Shes absolutely adorable and very sweet and loves to cuddle and snuggle at bedtime and when she's tired. Very friendly to everyone we meet. Thinks everyone and everybody inclu other animals ought to play with her. She loves our 1 1/2 year old cat who bathes tofu daily. They love to play chase through the house and bounce ontop of each other. Its rather hilarious how much they love to wrestle and chase each other. They also drink wayer and snack together each other's food when I'm not looking. The two of them like to sleep near each other on my bed with my German shepherd whos 16 months old. Tofu loves to wrestle with Asia's face as well. Fortunately, Asia is super gentle and has played with our cat her whole life. At times all 3 run through the house playing tag and chase together. Its quite an experience to watch. Tofu is very brave for her tiny size as a bichon yorkie and has challenged our older dog mochi whos 1/2 German shepherd and Shiba. He growls at ger when shell try to steal his bone. Asia is very accommodating and will share the bone with tofu, literally as ive seen both chewing on the same bone at the same time. Sometimes tofu steals Asia's bone all together. Tofu is very smart and learned commands very quickly. Importantly is space and back up, ehen shes invading someone elses space or wants to play but theyre not in the mood. In just a month shes learned about a dozen words/commands. She is very full of energy so im glad she has other animals to take care of some of this. She seems to do well when im not around as long as she has other companion but hates to be alone. Hates being in kennel and xan ve a bit yelpy. Besides that shes a great dog. Id recommend one for anyone with time to spend with them. But understand they don't do well alone for a long time. We als have a fun game of tug on her tigger stuffed animal. She needs toys which she has plenty. If nothing to play with theyll tend to chew on your favorite things instead.
4 years, 1 month ago
Oliver
9 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
walking cuddling and truck rides!
Well where do I begin. I was 51 when I fell in love with this little Bichon Yorkie puppy. He will be 10 this May 2012. Oliver is obesessed with me and I totally feel the same about him! We are inseparable which can sometime be a problem. Especially if I go out for any event or shopping or simply going to the car to grab grogerices. He is always protecing the house and stands on guard daily! He loves and I do mean loves to bark,bark,bark! He is a Meany and most times get aggressive on our daily walks when he see another dog or even a man walking by us. Its exhausting, and must sound like a lot but I LOVE LOVE LOVE this little man (that's what I call him) my little man:) He dislikes most people,children and seems to only tolerate his pet brother cat Arthur and sister golden doddle Zooey. He rules the house he's the boss and he and the other pets know it. Health wise very good so far. He does have several small size lumps all benign! thank goodness. If i miss brushing his teeth he'll definitely have stinky breath. My little man is my world and he knows it. Super loyal, super smart and very stubborn but darn cute!!!! Love you Oliver xo
3 years, 10 months ago
Bruno
9 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Car rides
seeing other dogs
The best dog ever!! I will never own another kind of dog! He never chewed up anything and listens really well. He never got into toys but he’s the most lovable and calm dog.
3 years, 10 months ago
Alex
6 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Wonderful dog who loving and loyal. Protective from spiders, mice and intruders. Listens but likes independents. Also he enjoys giving hugs. Easy to train. Enjoys my company. He is also calm after he is done with playing. He enjoys being outside but I watch out for Kyote, Owls, hawk, raccoon, and snakes. He loved his toys and lots of attention. I would not trade him for the world!
3 years, 9 months ago
Lexi
15 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
playing with other dog
Running
Chases everything that moves. She crouches down and jumps on our 16 month Golden Retriever. She is so attached to me, it's very hard to leave the house. She did horrible in a crate as a puppy and has not bene in one since. I had to take her with me everywhere I went or she would howl, bark and pee by the door when I left her. Does not listen when called if she is distracted by leaves blowing, other dogs, people etc.
3 years, 8 months ago
Phoebe
6 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playdate
Walk
Tug-of-war
Bubbles
Chase
Eating Snacks
sprinkler
Playing in the snow
We love Phoebe. She loves to play and run around. She is our little buddy. Phoebe makes us want to stay home all the time.
3 years, 7 months ago
Kenji
1 Year
3 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is very hyper, super sweet, protective and loves people
3 years, 6 months ago
Luna
3 Months
8 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Meeting new friends
Tug-of-war
She is very friendly and loves to play with other pups and people.
3 years, 5 months ago
Giovanna or “GIA” for short.
11 Weeks
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Play and training for now.
New to owning and training the breed.
3 years, 2 months ago
Hunter
9 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is mix of bichon and a biewer yorki He has been with a family and done exceptionally well. He has always been sweet and caring to all, is always by the alpha of the house is a bit vocal with a big bark. He did outgrow all size projections and is now about six inches taller Thant they told us and double the weight. When he barks, many are shocked he is small at about 16 inches and 25 lbs. he was the last of the litter as they told us he was too big and aggressive for the others, perfect for us. Very healthy
3 years ago
Layla
13 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Snuggle
Walk
cuddle
Layla is such a good girl. She's really fun to play with and she's a good cuddler. She developed a mouth infection from our other dog a while ago so her breath always smells, but she's doing well for her age
2 years, 9 months ago
Pip
10 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing
Chase
We got the dog to go with our Bichon in hopes that the Bichon would have less separation anxiety if there was another dog in the house. Well that part has worked out well... but the Yorkie/Bichon mix has got to be the most maddening dog you can imagine in trying to train it not to urinate where ever it wants. It has stop pooping where it shouldn't, but the urine training is pretty hopeless.
2 years, 5 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Behavior
Question

We love our little Phoebe but when she wants to get our attention she chews on our furniture or us. How do I stop this behavior?

Answer
Furniture chewing can be linked to boredom and anxiety so make sure she is getting enough mental and physical stimulation in the form of e.g. exercise, training and puzzles. When she chews, it is best to ignore her and not pay attention. If the issue persists, a behaviourist would he able to help.
3 years, 7 months ago
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