Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Papillon is also called the Continental Toy Spaniel. They have a long lustrous coat what is white with patches of any color, except liver. The butterfly ears are carried either erect or drooping. The Papillon with drooped years is called Phalene Papillon. This breed is small, friendly, elegant, of fine-boned structure, light, dainty and of lively action. They are very devoted to their masters, with a hearty spirit making them desirable for show or companionship. Papillons are hardy and usually long lived. These lovely dogs are good travelers and love to be with their family. They are friendly, happy and eager to please. The Papillon ranks number one Toy Dog in obedience.

TEMPERAMENT

The Papillon is a friendly, intelligent dog. Steady and silent. A lively, vivacious and charming, gentle and affectionate dog. They are playful and amusing but can also be calm, patient, gentle and dignified. This breed loves to be cuddled but also likes to romp outdoors. They are obedient and are not yappers. Can be trained to perform small tricks. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but are in general easy to train otherwise. Papillons do best with older, considerate children. They can be a bit dog-aggressive. Good with cats when they are raised with them from puppyhood.

GROOMING

They have no undercoat, but a long, abundant, flowing and silky in texture. Daily combing and brushing of the long, silky, single coat is important and fairly straightforward. These dogs are usually clean and odorless. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. Keep the nails clipped and have the teeth cleaned regularly because they tend to accumulate tartar. They are average shedders and do not matt or tangle.

HEALTH

Sometimes prone to problems with the kneecaps (patella) in the hind legs, this can sometimes be corrected by surgery. Also fontanel (an opening at the top of the skull similar to a baby human's "soft spot"). It sometimes corrects itself but if it does not, the dog needs to be protected. Some have a difficult time under anesthesia.

EXERCISE

Papillon need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard.

TRAINING

Papillons can be trained to perform small tricks. Good with cats when they are socialized with them. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but are in general easy to train otherwise. If you allow this dog to become pack leader to humans, it may become very possessive of its owner and resent outsiders.

What do you think of this breed?

comments powered by Disqus