Dog Breeds: The Papillon

If you have ever had experience with the toy dog breed called the Papillon (French for butterfly), you know that it has a high level of energy, an engaging personality and a sweet nature. This breed, possibly the oldest toy breed in existence, is immediately recognizable by its butterfly-shaped ears. However, even if you can recognize the breed on sight, you might not know some of the most interesting aspects of this dog. I’d like to share some of them with you.

Appearance

Papillons are considered to be white with markings of any other colour, or parti-coloured. As a result, an all white dog or one with no white is disqualified from the show ring. However, the following colours can be registered, even if some of them cannot be shown.

White with black, white with lemon, white with red, white with sable, white with black and tan, white with black and brown, white with red and black, white with brown, white with fawn, red, white with red and sable, sable, white, white with liver and white with silver.

The Papillon’s large ears should be fringed with coloured, not white, silky fur. The coloured hair should also cover both eyes and the front and back of the ears to produce the distinctive butterfly effect. A solid coloured head is acceptable, but a white blaze and a noseband are preferred. The nose, lips and eye rims should be black. Paw pads should be pink or black, but slight variations are acceptable.

Breed History

Like other ancient breeds, the Papillon can be seen in various artworks throughout the pre-modern world. Toy spaniels that greatly resemble the Papillon in size and profile can be found as early as 1500 in Italian art. However, a drop eared breed known as the Epagneul Nain Continental (Continental Dwarf/Toy Spaniel) which looked somewhat like the Papillon, appeared in church frescos and paintings as early as the thirteenth century. In fact, in non English speaking countries, the Papillon is still called the Epagneul Nain Continental (ENC). There are actually two versions of the breed, the Papillon with the erect butterfly shaped ears and the Phalene with the drooping ears. Both versions are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

When they first became popular, Papillons were also known as Belgian Spaniels and Dwarf Spaniels. There was even a time when they were known as Squirrel Spaniels, because their tail, like a squirrel’s, curves over their backs.

Papillons were very popular with aristocrats as King Henry II, King Henry III, King Louis XIV, Madame Pompadour and Marie Antoinette apparently owned these playful dogs.

Characteristics and Temperament

Despite their dainty and aristocratic appearance, Papillons are known for being small dogs with a big attitude, or as some refer to them, big dogs in a little dog suit. They are quite energetic and can often trot for miles before getting tired. With the advent of dog agility competitions, these athletic dogs have come into their own. Their natural agility and speed, combined with their small stature gives them considerable advantage over larger breeds.

Although these small dogs are well suited to agility competitions and running around large yards, they also adapt to apartment life, provided that they get to go for frequent walks or romps in off leash dog parks. They are quite social and love fluttering from person to person. However, some of them can be a little temperamental when it comes to children. Papillons are quite intelligent and they learn very quickly. The Papillon is also noted for its psychological abilities. It is able to perceive the emotional needs of its owner and adapts its personality and behaviour to meet that need.

Health Concerns

Papillons are generally healthy unless they come from a “Puppy Mill” environment. However, like many small dogs, Papillons can develop kneecap and hind leg problems, especially as they get older. You may find that they are no longer as capable as they were when they were younger when it comes to jumping. You may even find, with severe cases, that you might need to install dog ramps at certain points throughout your home.

Some of these dogs may suffer from a small opening in their skull at the crown, but this will usually correct itself over time. Like other small animals, this breed should be watched closely when it is under anaesthesia.

Grooming Requirements

When it comes to grooming, Papillons are quite easy to maintain. They are clean and odourless animals. As long as they are given a quick brushing each day, they will remain quite handsome and neat. They have a fine-haired, single-length coat, which is shed twice a year.

You must remember to keep the nails on this breed well clipped, as failure to do so could lead to injury or infection.

Suitability

Overall, you will find that Papillons are an excellent breed of dog. If you think that this breed of dog may be nice to have as a pet, you should do a little more research and also talk to someone who owns one. I am quite certain that you will find that a Papillon will make an excellent addition to your family.

Until next time,

Teia