Papillon Breed Guide
Also known as: Continental Toy Spaniel, Butterfly Dog
Butterfly ears frame intelligent faces, Papillons are alert, athletic toy dogs whose elegance and intelligence belie their small, delicate appearance.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Toy
Weight
2-5 kg
Lifespan
14-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Toy
Weight
2-5 kg
Lifespan
14-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Papillons
The Papillon originated in France and Belgium during the 16th century, developed from toy spaniels depicted in paintings by masters like Rubens and Van Dyck. The breed's name means butterfly in French, referring to their distinctive erect, feathered ears that resemble butterfly wings.
Papillons are small dogs with long, silky coats in white with patches of various colours including black, brown, red, and sable. They're known for their alert expressions, feathered ears, and lively, intelligent personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, trainable, and make excellent family pets. They're known for their agility and excel in dog sports despite their small size. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviours. Their coats need regular brushing to prevent matting. While generally healthy, potential concerns include luxating patella, dental problems, and certain eye conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around larger dogs and strangers.
Complete Care Guide for Papillons
Expert advice on keeping your Papillon healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition for your Papillon requires careful attention to both quality and quantity of food. These small but energetic dogs thrive on a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality protein, which supports their naturally high activity levels and maintains their muscle mass. Due to their small size and quick metabolism, Papillons can be particularly susceptible to weight fluctuations, making portion control absolutely essential.
When selecting food for your Papillon, opt for specially formulated small breed options that account for their unique nutritional requirements. These formulations typically feature appropriately sized kibble and concentrated nutrients that match their high metabolic rate. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule with measured portions helps prevent overfeeding, while regular weight monitoring ensures your Papillon maintains a healthy body condition.
Fresh, clean water should always be readily available to support proper hydration and digestion. Consider using a small, shallow water bowl that's easily accessible for your Papillon's size, and refresh the water multiple times daily to encourage regular drinking habits. Monitor your dog's water intake, particularly during warmer weather or periods of increased activity, as proper hydration directly impacts their overall health and energy levels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Papillons from our community of pet parents
Papillons are known for being friendly, intelligent and energetic. They are highly sociable dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. Their alert and outgoing nature makes them excellent companions. However, they can be slightly territorial, which can sometimes lead to excessive barking.
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