Papillon & Phalène
The small but feisty Papillon is here to refute what you thought you knew about lap dogs. Their height and delicate appearance might make Papillons look like dainty couch potatoes – which they undoubtedly can be – but they are also a highly active breed that is sure to keep you on your toes.
The two varieties, the Papillon (French for “butterfly”) with its erect ears and the Phalène (French for “moth”) with its dropped ears, share a bubbly personality, energetic temper and high intelligence.
The Papillon is a breed for everyone who appreciates agility, liveliness and energy in pocket-size. These dogs thrive on exercise that plays to both their mental and physical strengths and are always out to please and impress their beloved owners. Being fast learners, Paps can be trained to do all sorts of tricks.
However, as Papillons are also excellent watchdogs, they are considered very vocal and garrulous, like many other toy dogs. They need to be properly socialised, so that they do not show distrustful or aggressive tendencies towards other dogs and people.
Papillon & Phalène characteristics
history
Not many breeds can claim to be featured in paintings by some of Europe’s most famous painters. As early as the beginning of the 16th century, Continental Toy Spaniels – the direct ancestor of the modern Papillon – could be found in portraits depicting the members of influential and noble European families. Tracing the evolution of the breed through the centuries means spotting their appearances in portraits of Titian, Vermeer, Rembrandt and many more, up until the 19th century, when these dogs unmistakably became the modern Papillon.
Breed facts
FCI: Companion and Toy Dogs - Group 9
AKC/KC: Toy Group
Agility, Obedience
The Papillon can also be seen participating in Flyball and Dog Dancing.
Belgium, France
very small
long, silky, no undercoat
health
The Papillon can be affected by patellar luxation, a condition especially common in small dogs, in which the knee cap pops out of its groove on the femur. Progressive retinal atrophy is also known to manifest in the breed, which eventually leads to blindness. A serious condition occurring at a young age, between six months and one year, neuroaxonal disease (NAD) leads to a degeneration of the nervous system and unfortunately can’t be cured as of yet.
The Papillon’s size and delicate build also makes it susceptible to injuries, especially as a puppy. Larger animals and small children can harm them by accident, which is why Papillons should be adopted into households with older kids.
