Description:  The Papillon is a small, friendly, elegant Toy dog of fine-boned structure, light, dainty and of lively action.  He is distinguished from other breeds by his beautiful butterfly-like ears.  Paps are very devoted to their masters, with a hearty spirit making them desirable for show or companionship.  Papillons are hardy and usually long lived.  They adapt to almost any climate and are comfortable in an apartment as well as the country.  They are good travelers.  They love to be with their family.  They are friendly, happy and eager to please.  They rank the number one Toy Dog in obedience.

Other Names:  Epagneul Nain (Phalene is also known as Continental Toy Spaniel)

Height:  8 - 11 inches.
Weight:  3 - 9 lbs.

Colors:  From pale lemon and white to rich shades of red, chestnut, deep mahogany.  Tri's and black and white.
Coat:  No undercoat.  Long, abundant, flowing and silky in texture.

Temperament:  Friendly, alert
With Children:  Yes, but not small children.
With Pets:  Yes, cats and small dogs, may challenge bigger dogs.
Special Skills:  Family pet.

Watch-dog:  Excellent
Guard-dog:  Very Low

Care and Training:  Weekly brushing of the coat.  Trimming of the pads of their feet.  Minimal bathing.  Can obtain his exercise indoor, but loves to take walks outdoors.  
Learning Rate:  Very high in obedience, high in problem solving.

Activity:  Moderate
Living Environment:  Apartments - Yes, but loves outdoors.

Health Issues:  Usually very healthy.  Some problems with inadequate tear production, progressive retinal atrophy and patella's .

Life Span:  13 - 16 years
Litter Size:  2 - 4 

Country of Origin:  France
History:  A very old breed dating back to the fourteenth century where he was know as the Continental Toy Spaniel. The CTS had typical Spaniel ears, (hanging down on the sides of his head).  Today the drop eared Papillon is known as the Phalene (meaning night moth).  Appeared in the United States close to the 19th Century where the erect eared became more common. 

First Registered by the AKC:  1915
AKC Group:  Toy Group
Class: Toy
Registries:  AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC,(GB), UKC

Back            Home            Next            Up