Papillon dogs: The 4 paw guide

Papillon dogs get their name from the French word for 'butterfly' given due to the size , shape and position of this breeds ears, the narrow blaze down their face also resembles the body of a butterfly.

Also called the Continental Toy Spaniel, Papillon dogs have a tail which is long and plumed, and carried curled over their back.

Papillon dogs are intelligent and are much tougher than they look! Papillon's love outdoor exercise. They are gentle, affectionate, lively and charming. They are playful and amusing, but can also be calm and dignified. Papillon dogs love to be cuddled as much as they love to romp outdoors.

Papillon dogs can become very possessive of their owners unless socialised well.

One of the oldest known breeds, going back 700 years, during the Renaissance Papillon dogs were used extensively as models for painters, including Rembrandt. It is through these depictions the history has been retained. They were perfected by the French breeders for agility, watch dogging and performing tricks.

Papillon dogs at a glance
Our 4 Paw Rating - to the suitability of Papillon dogs for your home and lifestyle.

Size
Shoulder height 8 - 11 inches, weight 9 - 10lbs.

Coat Care
Papillon dogs require daily combing/brushing of their long silky coat, which is usually clean and odourless. They do not shed much and rarely matt or tangle.

Family Life
Papillon dogs love people, affectionate and friendly, suited better to older more animal considerate children, than very small ones – as it can become injured due its size. Well suited to people who cannot provide lots of exercise, but can give time and attention.

Lifestyle
Papillon dogs tend not to be very well suited to apartment living, as due to its natural protective nature, can bark at all outside noises, unable to distinguish every day noises from potential danger!

Health
Life expectancy up to 16 years. Knee (patella) in hind legs sometimes prone to problems.

Exercise
Papillon dogs love to run about and have regular walks, but will not fret too much if this is not possible for a few days

Training
Papillon dogs are easy to train due to their intelligence, although consistency and perseverance may be required for housebreaking.