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The Playful Papillon PersonalityKnown for their butterfly ears and distinct black and white markings, the Papillon is not only a delight to look at, but sports a personality to match. The Papillon originated in Europe about 700 years ago and is considered one of the oldest dog breeds. Papillons have had a few different names along the years. First called the dwarf spaniel for their distinctive ears and then called the continental toy spaniel before being named the Papillon.
The Papillon "Look"
As a proud member of the
Toy dog group, the Papillon weighs from 9-10 pounds and stands from 8-11 inches. Along with their ears, the Papillon has a distinctive tail. It is long, flowing and curls up and over its back. This has also earned them a comparison to the squirrel. Their coats are shiny, silky and mostly black and white. Sometimes a Papillon's coat will have a little red or tan, but not as noticeable as the black and white markings. These dogs do shed.
Papillon's are compared to butterflies for their dropping ears. In fact, this specific ear shape is specifically called the Moth. These dogs truly have elegance about them.
The Papillon Personality
The Papillon is a very pretty dog. They also look elegant and have an air about them as they jaunt around. Yet don't be fooled! These little dogs may have a slight frame, but sport exceptional personality. Known for their clown-like behavior, the Papillon loves to play. They also enjoy cuddling with their owner. Basically, this is a dog that loves it all! It is important to note that they can be a bit "bark-happy," wanting to alert their owners of sights and smells. The Papillon is a perfect family dog that loves both kids and other dogs.
Grooming & Care
Proper grooming is a must for this dog! If you want a "wash and wear" dog, this pooch is not for you. They are single coated and shed a bit, but their coats grow long. You will need to brush this dog a few times a week, if not briefly everyday. But brushing is not enough. Be aware that certain spots on the Papillon are sensitive to matting. And once the hair mats, it is incredibly difficult to comb. Behind the ears and on the stomach are the most common areas to look for matting. Regular baths with a good shampoo and maybe a conditioner will ensure a healthy coat. As with all dogs, veterinarian visits are a must. Areas of concern for the Papillon are cataracts, Von Willebrands and a luxating patella. Regular Vet visits will help to monitor for any possible signs of disease or sickness. |
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