Don’t get too comfy on the couch, your Papillon wants to go out and play. Energetic and charming, be prepared for excited guests to huddle around your gorgeous Papillon.
Named because of their upright, fringed ears which resemble a butterfly’s wings (Papillon is French for butterfly), Papillons also have a social butterfly-like personality. If you have visions of spending many a cosy afternoon with a Papillon napping on your lap, banish the thought – your extroverted buddy will be flitting around and looking for a cuddle or chasing small animals that have worked their way into your yard.
Papillons are energetic, lively and charming. They are good with children, but you will want to wait before introducing a Papillon to an excitable toddler or other dogs. Their small, adorable size is deceptive. They make great watchdogs and their proud, bold attitude and alertness means they will take on anyone, irrespective of their size.
Fun fact:It is said that Marie Antoinette carried her beloved Papillon
with her to the guillotine and that the dog was pardoned for any crimes associated
with the former queen, living happily to the age of 22.
They are intelligent, eager to please and happy to learn new tricks. But buy your neighbours earmuffs for Christmas – Papillons have a loud bark and sometimes, an incessant one. Be firm, assertive and consistent while laying down the rules and your Papillon will fill your home and heart with joy.
While Papillons love the outdoors and a romp in the yard is ideal, they do well in an apartment too. A couple of short, daily walks suits them just fine. They can be quite fragile, so keep them from jumping on and off your furniture or climbing the stairs too much.
Papillons have a long, silky, single undercoat that is quite easy to maintain. Weekly brushing and combing is recommended, even though the coat doesn’t mat. A Papillon’s hair grows until they are two, when their full adult coat comes in. They are a clean breed and do not give off any odour. Papillons shed moderately. Bath them only when necessary. Trim their nails and brush their teeth regularly and your Papillon will be ready to work the crowd.
Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
Size
They are a toy-sized breed weighing between 3-5kg, with a height between 25-28cms.
Space
A Papillon will be happy curled up in an apartment, provided they get enough exercise.
Energy Levels
The equivalent of a marathon runner. They just go and go and go. Daily walks and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.
Difficulty of Training
They are intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze.
Family Suitability
Papillons are great family pets and loyal companions.
Compatibility with other Pets
They love meeting new pets and will befriend other cats or dogs if socialised from a young age.
Need for Company
They have a moderate need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?
No
Coat and Grooming Needs
This breed is high-maintenance. They have a long coat in white, with patches of any colour except liver. They tend to have coloured ears and eyes. Brush them daily to keep their coat tangle free. Clip their nails and bath when necessary.
Shedding
They shed moderately.
Tendency to Bark
They have a moderate tendency to bark, so expect some conversation.