Papillon Breed Information and Pictures - Tiny Tracks

Papillon Breed

Papillon Dog Picture
Photo ©2005 General - Tiny Tracks

Standard Papillon Characteristics

Class: Toy Group

Alternate Names: Continental Toy Spaniel, Epagneul nain Continental, Butterfly Dog, Phal�ne (drop ear type)

Nick Names: Squirrel Spaniel, Toy Spaniel

Height: 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm.)

Weight: 8-10 pounds (4-5kg.)

Color: Parti-color or tri-color. Black and White, Sable and White, Red and White are common.

Hypoallergenic: No

Description & Appearance:

Papillon is French for Butterfly and so named for their butterfly-like ears. The breed generally has a single coat of long flowing hair around its ears, neck, chest and body and short around its head and feet. The coat is typically straight and silky.The tail is a long plume of hair curled back across its body. This Toy dog has a light frame making it fragile; however its animated disposition certainly doesn�t appear that way.

The Phal�ne variety has all the same characteristics of the Papillon except for its ears are dropped like a Spaniels instead of erect. Both types exhibit a short pointed muzzle and dark round eyes.

Temperament:

The general temperament of Papillons is happy, playful and energetic. They are athletic and enjoy walks around town and trips to the dog park. Their barks sometimes come unwarranted, but protective as they are, they make good watchdogs. This breed is also extremely bright and resourceful. They pick up tricks and other behaviors quickly. Housebreaking requires a little extra work. Because of their athletic ability and intelligence, they have been proving themselves in Dog Agility competitions.

Papillons are a gentle breed and will be good with children and other pets if socialized from an early age. This is a perfect companion dog for active families.

Health:

Papillons are prone to Luxating Patella as well as soft spots in the head. Patella can be corrected with surgery, but soft spots may cause injury if it doesn�t close when they are young. They are a hardy breed and can expect to live up to 15 years.

Care & Grooming:

As Papillons are bounding with energy, they need routine exercise. They should be kept indoors and out of the elements, but when playtime is playtime, they need room to romp around.

A daily brushing will keep their coat clean and free of dander. Their hair doesn�t tangle, so brushing is never an arduous task. This breed sheds an average amount.

History:

Papillons are one of the earliest toy breeds recorded. Originally from Europe, they were bred for companionship as well as for royalty. Its ancestors were the Continental Dwarf and Toy Spaniel. The dropped-ear Phalenes and erect eared Papillons appear in the same litter, although breeders of the time were usually fond for the erect eared Paps.

More Information:

You can also browse the forums for more information about Papillon by owners of this wonderful breed. See the following:

Click here for Papillon discussions.
Click here for Papillon pictures.