Dog Breeds > Papillon

The Papillon

The Papillion is a little dog that is easily recognizable because of its standing ears with tan markings on it that makes a butterfly wings illusion. This breed has been chosen by so many breeders and dog lovers because of its affectionate and lively character.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Papillion is a small dog that belongs to the Spaniel type. This breed is also known as the Butterfly Dog, Pap, Continental Toy Spaniel and Phalene. This breed is considered as one of the oldest dog existing. The Papillion is also one of the favorite subjects for paintings during the Renaisance period. You would see the Papillion sitting on the lap of either Spanish or French noblewomen.

Physical Appearance

A full grown Papillion stands 8 – 11 inches and weighs 8 – 10 pounds respectively. The Papillion’s head is round with short muzzle, black nose and dark large eyes. The rounded tip hairy ears which give the butterfly look are either hanging closely on the head or standing high. The hairy tail is long and stands high.

The coat has long and straight hair that covers the whole body. The color of the coat is white with patches or spots of any color ranging from black, liver and tan. The patch of any color highlights the face of the Papillion.

Grooming

The Papillion’s long and straight coat needs daily brushing or combing. The coat of the Papillion does not have a doggy odor so bathe or shampoo only if necessary. Clip the nails and brush its teeth regularly.

Mood

The Papillion is naturally friendly, lively and intelligent toy dog. This breed is also lively, affectionate and gentle. They love to cuddle around their masters. This breed does not bark loud unlike other small dogs.

There are owners/trainers/handlers that treat their Papillion more than a pet. Because of this, this breed could have Small Dog Syndrome – a behavioral problem wherein the dog believes that they are the leader and the owner of the house. This behavioral problem leads to obsessive barking, foul temper towards strangers and even children, guarding and biting furniture and other negative behaviors.

With Children

The Papillion is good with children. This breed is friendly, gentle, sweet and affectionate towards children. This breed is also energetic and could play for long hours without getting signs of being tired.

Training & Exercise

The Papillion is a toy dog; people would normally see this breed being carried by their owners/trainers/handlers. There are times that their masters let the Papillion play but there is no alternative to regular exercise.

This breed is intelligent; training it is very easy. You can teach the Papillion some tricks in just a matter of short time. It also responds well to gentle and calm way of treatment. Food reward training is a good way to improve its focus.

Health & Life Expectancy

The lifespan of the Papillion is around 16 years or higher. Although this breed normally lives healthy for the rest of its life, they are prone to hind legs kneecap problems. This knee problem can only be corrected thorough surgery.  

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