At a glance
- Papillons are generally healthy dogs with a 14-16 year lifespan, but they're prone to specific hereditary conditions like luxating patella and progressive retinal atrophy
- Early detection through regular veterinary screenings and choosing responsible breeders who test for genetic conditions can prevent many health problems
- Daily dental care is crucial as these dogs are particularly susceptible to retained puppy teeth and periodontal disease
- Using a harness instead of a collar helps protect against collapsing trachea, a common issue in small breeds
Understanding your dog's genetic predispositions
Many Papillon owners worry when they first notice their dog limping or skipping steps during walks. This behaviour often signals luxating patella, one of the most common hereditary conditions affecting these elegant toy dogs. The kneecap literally slips out of place, and while mild cases might seem painless, severe instances can lead to arthritis and significant discomfort.
Research shows that buying from breeders who screen for this condition dramatically reduces your dog's risk. If your dog already shows signs of patellar luxation, maintaining a healthy weight becomes critical. Extra pounds put additional stress on those delicate joints. Moderate exercise helps keep the supporting muscles strong, though severe cases may eventually require surgical intervention.
Progressive retinal atrophy presents a different challenge entirely. This genetic eye disorder typically appears between 3 to 9 years of age, starting with difficulty seeing in dim light. You might notice your dog bumping into furniture in darker rooms or hesitating at the top of stairs in the evening. The pupils often appear enlarged, and their eyes may seem more reflective than usual.
Unfortunately, there's no cure for PRA, but early diagnosis through veterinary ophthalmologic exams helps you prepare and adapt your home environment. Avoiding breeding affected dogs remains the only true prevention method, which is why reputable breeders conduct genetic testing. For more information, visit PetMD.
Protecting against bleeding disorders and skull vulnerabilities
Von Willebrand disease affects some Papillons, causing prolonged bleeding after even minor injuries. You'll notice excessive bleeding from small wounds, frequent nosebleeds, or bleeding gums during routine dental care. This hereditary blood clotting disorder requires genetic testing to identify, and it's crucial information to share with your veterinarian before any surgical procedures or dental work.
Open fontanelle, a persistent soft spot on the skull, presents a unique concern. While this condition normally closes by 9-12 weeks of age, some dogs retain this vulnerability throughout their lives. Most cases remain asymptomatic, but the increased risk of brain injury from head trauma means extra caution during play and handling.
Responsible breeders screen for open fontanelle, and affected dogs shouldn't be bred. If your dog has this condition, simple precautions like avoiding rough play with larger dogs and being gentle during grooming around the head area provide adequate protection. Learn more about health issues in Papillons at Wilkins Kountry Kennel.
Dental health requires daily attention
Have you noticed your dog's breath becoming increasingly unpleasant, or seen them pawing at their mouth during meals? These dogs are particularly prone to retained deciduous teeth, which creates overcrowding and accelerates plaque buildup. Without intervention, this leads to painful gum disease and tooth loss.
Daily brushing with dog-specific toothpaste makes the biggest difference in preventing periodontal disease. Many owners find success with dental chews like Greenies or Virbac C.E.T. chews, which help mechanically remove plaque between brushings. Professional cleanings should occur annually, or more frequently if your veterinarian recommends it based on your dog's individual needs.
Retained puppy teeth require early veterinary removal to prevent complications. Your vet can identify these during routine puppy visits, typically recommending extraction if adult teeth haven't pushed out the baby teeth by six months of age.
Respiratory and anxiety concerns
That distinctive honking cough you might hear from your dog could signal collapsing trachea, a condition where the windpipe's cartilage rings weaken and flatten. Small breeds face higher risk for this condition, which can progress from mild coughing to serious breathing difficulties.
Switching from a traditional collar to a harness immediately reduces pressure on the trachea during walks. This simple change often prevents mild cases from worsening and provides relief for dogs already showing symptoms. Maintaining a clean environment also helps minimise allergens that can exacerbate respiratory issues.
Separation anxiety frequently develops in these social, intelligent dogs. You might return home to find destructive behaviour, excessive vocalisation, or signs of distress like drooling or pacing. Gradual training to increase alone time, combined with interactive toys and mental stimulation, usually helps manage mild to moderate anxiety. Severe cases benefit from consultation with a certified animal behaviourist.
Creating a comprehensive prevention plan
Regular veterinary checkups form the foundation of preventive care, but the focus should include breed-specific screenings. Annual eye exams can catch PRA early, while orthopedic evaluations monitor joint health as your dog ages. Many veterinarians recommend starting these specialised screenings by age two or three, before symptoms typically appear.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting your dog's unique needs. High-quality diets formulated for small breeds often include ingredients that support dental and joint health. The smaller kibble size also accommodates their petite mouths, encouraging proper chewing that naturally helps clean teeth.
Daily grooming prevents matting in their beautiful long coat while providing opportunities to check for lumps, bumps, or skin irritations. Pay special attention to their large, feathered ears, which can trap moisture and debris, leading to infections. Regular ear cleaning with veterinarian-approved solutions helps prevent otitis media, another condition these dogs face more frequently than many breeds.
When to seek professional help
Recognising when symptoms require immediate veterinary attention can make the difference between simple management and complex treatment. Persistent limping, sudden vision changes, unusual bleeding, or difficulty breathing all warrant prompt professional evaluation.
Sometimes the signs are subtler. Changes in eating habits might indicate dental pain, while increased anxiety or behavioural changes could signal underlying health issues. Trust your instincts as an owner. You know your dog's normal patterns better than anyone.
Cost considerations shouldn't prevent necessary care, but understanding potential expenses helps with planning. Dental procedures can range from moderate cleaning costs to more expensive extractions if disease has progressed. Genetic testing through your veterinarian or breed-specific health registries typically costs a few hundred dollars but provides invaluable information for breeding decisions and health monitoring.
Surgery for severe luxating patella or collapsing trachea represents a significant investment, often requiring specialist care. However, early intervention and preventive measures usually help avoid these more expensive treatments while maintaining your dog's quality of life throughout their typical 14-16 year lifespan.
