Dog Breeds: Papillon

Saturday, August 15th, 2009 at 11:30 am

The Papillon is one of the oldest breeds of dog and has a recorded history in Europe of nearly 700 years. The Papillon was originally known as the epagneul nain or dwarf spaniel.

In later years it became known as the Continental Toy Spaniel. Many Italian frescoes of the 13th-15th centuries featured the Papillon. It was highly valued in Italy during the Renaissance and later by French breeders.

Papillon is French for Butterfly. The dog has ‘butterfly’ ears that are heavily fringed and look like butterfly wings. Although its origins are uncertain, the breed had become highly valued by the sixteenth century European nobility.

It was known as the Squirrel Spaniel because of the manner in which its long, plumed tail curled over its back.

FACTS ABOUT THE PAPILLON

Size	8-11 in (20-28 cm)
Weight	3 ½ -10 lb (1-5 kg)
Temperament	The Papillon is gentle and affectionate with a lively, friendly alert nature, and although the Papillon is playful and amusing, it can also be calm, dignified and gentle. Some dogs are possessive of their owners and resent strangers. They will alert you to when strangers arrive. An obedient dog, the Papillon is generally not a noisy, yappy dog like some other small breeds. Although the Papillon is sometimes difficult to housebreak, they are generally easy to train, and are easily taught to do tricks. Some can be nervous, highly strung and timid. Papillons are better kept with older, considerate children. They can be aggressive towards other dogs but are generally good with cats if they are raised with them from puppyhood. 3 ½ -10 lb (1-5 kg)
Grooming	These dogs are usually clean and odorless. Papillons require daily combing and brushing of the long, silky, coat. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. Keep the nails clipped and have your vet clean the teeth regularly to disperse any build up of tartar. They are average shedders and the hair does not tend to matt or tangle.
Exercise	Papillons love to run and play however they are quite happy to be confined indoors for days on end. Remember that the Papillon is no different from other dogs in that it will benefit from regular exercise to remain trim and fit.
Living Area	The Papillon is well suited to apartment living because of its size. It is not suited to living outdoors. Because of their strong instinct to protect their property they sometimes bark excessively at any noise and this can be annoying for neighbours.
Health	Papillons have no special feeding requirements. They are generally a robust breed but are prone to problems with their kneecaps (patella) in the hind legs. Although this can be corrected by surgery Papillons sometimes have difficulties under anesthetic. Sometimes they suffer with eye problems
Life Expectancy	Papillons can live up to 16 years of age
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