Quick Facts:

Group Classification: Gun Dog, AKC Toy

Country of Origin: Italy

Date of Origin: 13th Century

Weight (M): 8-10 pounds Height (M): 8-11 inches
Weight (F): 7-9 pounds Height (F): 8-11 inches

Life Expectancy: 16 years maximum

History

Papillon is among the oldest dog breeds with a traceable ancestry going back roughly 700 years in Europe. Originally known as the dwarf spaniel or epagneul nain, this breed of dog has ears resembling those of spaniels. According to the Italian frescoes, this dog is traceable to the 13th Century through to the fifteenth when it featured in numerous paintings all related to the Renaissance period. The knowledge regarding its development is actually attributed to the dog’s depiction through paintings. The French breeders later perfected this breed thereby developing a dog with erect ears resembling those of butterflies.

General Description

The Papillon or Continental Toy Spaniel comprises a long, plumed tail that is constantly curled over its back while in motion. Its long and white lustrous coat has patches of all colors in exception of liver. Its butterfly-like ears are either carried drooping or erect. Phalene Papillon or Moth is the latter variety of Papillon dogs with dropping ears. They have a white, well defined nose band as well as an intelligent and alert expression while its muzzle is slightly pointed and short. The dominant color of Papillons is white and the other colors simply integrate as patches and these are the colors that cover the ears and eyes front to back.

Temperament

Papillons are friendly, intelligent dogs that are tougher than their appearance dictates. These affectionate and gentle dogs are also charming, vivacious, amusing and playful but similarly dignified, calm, gentle and patient. This breed of dog is usually silent and steady with a love for being cuddled as well as romping outside. Their obedient nature enables them to be easily trained and they are capable of performing small tricks. House breaking Papillons is generally complex once certain adverse traits in the dogs are allowed to establish themselves. This leads to certain behavioral complications such as dog aggression, obsessive barking, snapping, biting and growling. These traits are not inborn, but attributed to the manner in which the dog is treated.

Health and Care

Papillons are sometimes susceptible to kneecap complications (patella) on their hind legs and this may sometimes require surgery for correction. Fontanel is another condition that affects this breed of dogs and it typically involves an opening on the skull’s upper part with a similarity to the soft spot found in human babies. Although the condition can correct itself sometimes, in instances that it cannot, the affected dog may require protection. When under anesthesia, some Papillons go through difficult times. Papillons require daily exercises to ensure that their primal instincts of walking are fulfilled while equally releasing boredom and the consequent behavioral problems.

Other Important Information

The major reason why these dogs are generally not recommended for kids is because in relation to their size, owners unknowingly permit them to be in control. These dogs hence require pack leaders who are consistent and capable of providing rules to be followed as well as differentiating right and wrong. Papillons are not ideal city dogs because their strong protective instincts constantly leads to excessive barking prompted by nearby noises.

Pets4You offers listings of Papillon breeders with puppies for sale.