Yo-chon Dog Breed

The Yo-Chon, as a mixed breed, is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin, but they were likely developed during the "designer dog explosion" in North America in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. These enthusiastic little dogs make great companions for families of any size, especially seniors and people who live in apartments.

A few facts about Yorkie-Bichons: they're small-sized, averaging 10 inches at the shoulders in height and 11 pounds in weight; they have coats that can be long and silky, shorter and curly, or somewhere in between; and like both parent breeds, Yo-Chons' coats don't shed much and are considered hypoallergenic.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Yorkie-Bichon mix:

The Yo-Chon, as the offspring of two sensitive, people-oriented breeds, is an excellent family companion--but along with this hybrid's charming personality comes some needy and fussy tendencies.

Perhaps the most important piece of Bichon-Yorkie mix information is that these dogs crave constant attention. Though they can usually get along pretty well with other household pets, Yo-Chons get jealous very easily, and are sure to fuss if others are receiving the majority of their owners' attention. This means they'll need the same amount of TLC they're so willing to give! The flip side of that coin, though, is that Yo-Chons can become extremely temperamental and bossy if they're always allowed their way. The best way to balance these opposing notions is to give the dog plenty of firm, consistent training, along with lots of socialization with different kinds of people, animals, and situations, starting when the Yo-Chon is young if possible. This should help your Yo-Chon develop into a well-balanced, happy adult dog.

More Yorkie-Bichon information: though active, these little dogs don't need a ton of exercise. They'll usually fulfill their daily activity requirements just running around being their curious selves, but a short walk or two each day is a good idea.

Yo-Chons don't see a lot of variety in physical features. Individual dogs may vary a bit in leg, ear, or tail length, but these differences are naturally occurring and don't signify a specific breed sub-type.

Depending on inherited traits, Yo-Chons' coats can vary a little in length and texture. They can be long and silky like the Yorkie's, or shorter and "cottony" like that of the Bichon Frise--or most often they'll be somewhere in between: medium to long and fluffy.

With the high demand for tiny designer dogs, some breeders might use selective breeding techniques to develop lines of extra-small Yo-Chon dogs, sold with names like the Mini Yo-Chon or the Teacup Bichon Frise-Yorkie mix, among others. And while indeed tiny (as small as six inches and eight pounds), neither do these micro-sized pups represent a breed sub-type.

Affectionate, intelligent, friendly, loyal, and at times fussy, the Yorkie-Bichon mix temperament is one of neediness and love. These hybrids usually get along with people and animals alike, and the can make great family pets--but they'll need owners willing to provide them with a lot of attention; without it, they'll be extremely unhappy, and are bound to become disobedient and even destructive. Owners will need to walk a fine line, though, because Yo-Chons can develop Small Dog Syndrome (SDS)--excessive fussiness and disobedience, in other words--if not taught respectful behavior. SDS is best avoided in these hybrids by giving them obedience training starting in puppyhood, and having them grow up alongside any children and other household pets.

Speaking of training: Yo-Chons usually take pretty well to it, and can learn tasks, tricks, and commands without too many repetitions. As with any breed, firm, consistent training methods are best.

And Yo-Chons have decent watchdog abilities. Though they're too small to really neutralize potential threats like intruders, they're alert, curious, and fairly vocal, so they'll usually sound a vocal alarm if they perceive an unknown sight or sound.

The Yo-Chon, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits from its parent breeds), is very healthy. Still, these hybrids can suffer a few ailments including luxating patella, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), allergies, and various bladder problems. Small breeds like the Yo-Chon are also prone to dental issues, so make sure to brush the dog's teeth 3-4 times per week (if not daily).

Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for Yo-Chons is 12-15 years.