Papillon

History of the Papillon Breed

The Papillon gets its name from ears that resemble butterfly wings. It is one of the oldest breeds of dog, with a recorded history in Europe going back nearly 700 years. Originating in France, the breed was then called the epagneul nain, or dwarf spaniel, and sported spaniel-type dropped ears. It was very popular with the European aristocracy. The court of France's Louis XIV was particularly fond of papillons and imported many of them. Recognizable in Italian frescoes of the 13th through 15th centuries, the tiny breed was featured in many paintings of the Renaissance period. Much of the papillon's development is known because of its depiction in paintings. Although the breed is known for its resemblance to a butterfly, it has also been likened to a squirrel because of the way it carries its tail. Although the early dogs had drooping ears, an unknown event caused some dogs to sport erect ears. Sometimes both drop- and erect-eared papillons came from the same litter. Today, both ear types are correct according to the breed standard, although the erect-eared dog is much more popular. The drop-earred dogs are known as phalene, which is French for moth. By 1900, the papillon was well represented at French dog shows and soon afterward was being shown in England and America. The dog was later known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, or just toy spaniel.

Size and Appearance of the Papillon Breed

The papillon has a small, dainty body with an abundant coat of fine hair that is long and silky. The breed has butterfly-like ears, a profuse frill on the chest and a tail covered with a long plume. The papillon's gait is quick and graceful, and its expression is alert. It has no undercoat and its coloring is white or parti-color with patches of any color(s). The ears and the area over both eyes must be non-white.

Papillon Temperament

The papillon is friendly, playful, intelligent and obedient. Its activity level is moderate. It can also be calm, patient and gentle. The breed is good with older children and with cats, if socialized early, but may be aggressive towards larger dogs and possessive of its owner. It is not a yapper but will bark vigorously in response to nearby noises. Some papillons can be timid or nervous. Occasionally difficult to housebreak, it is otherwise easy to train. It loves to be cuddled and to romp outdoors. The breed's talents include watchdogging, agility, competitive obedience and performing tricks.

Papillon Recommended Maintenance

Daily combing and brushing of the long, silky, single coat is important. Papillons are average shedders and do not matt or tangle. Minimal bathing is required as this breed stays fairly clean and is odorless. Clean teeth of tartar and clip nails. Footpads must be trimmed to prevent splaying of the feet. The papillon won’t mind being kept in the house for days at a time, however it needs to get out and exercise regularly. Although they can be good city dogs, they are sometimes not convenient apartment dogs because of a strong instinct to protect their property. Papillons bark at casual sounds and those worthy of alarm with equal enthusiasm. This lively breed thrives on mental stimulation and enjoys a daily walk on a leash as well as challenging games indoors or out. This is not a breed that can live outdoors.

Papillon Health

�?Life span: 12 - 15 years
�?Major concerns: none
�?Minor concerns: PRA, patellar luxation
�?Occasionally seen: none
�?Suggested tests: knee, eye