The Papillon, also known as the Companion Dwarf Continental Spaniel or butterfly spaniel, is a cute puppy with striking ears and a perfect size to live in any type of flat.

In ancient times, the Papillon belonged to the European courts, where he was the mascot of kings and queens. Today it is a good pet dog with multiple qualities. Do you want to know what they are? Discover them below!

Index of contents

• 1 Papillon dog breed history
• 2 Papillion physical characteristics
• 3 What is the Papillon’s personality like?
• 4 What care does a Papillon dog need?

Papillon dog breed history

During the Renaissance the Papillón breeding began. It was a popular pet in the European courts, especially among the ladies; Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France, was a great admirer of the breed.

At that time, the Papillon was the typical dog that rested on the ladies’ skirts, and was portrayed by various painters with them. Even if originally from France, gained greater popularity and recognition in Spain and Italy.

Papillion physical characteristics

The Dwarf Continental Spaniel is an easy dog ​​to recognize, as its appearance has several unmistakable details. To get started, he has a funny little body, taller than he is long. The chest is broad and descends in rounded ribs, while the legs are firm and the feet long similar to those of a hare.

As it appears in the International Cynological Federation (FCI) standard, the head must be proportionate and somewhat round. The eyes are large and almond shaped, always dark and very expressive.

The big ears of the Papillon owe him the name of butterfly dog, since they are straight and covered with long locks; When you lift them, the silhouette you draw is similar to the wings of the insects. In addition, there is another type of Papillon ear, as some dogs have oblique ears and a little drooping ending in a tip.

The muzzle is thin and slightly round, it has tight lips and strong teeth. The nose is round, small and black, while the tail is high and very elegant.

The Papillon’s coat is hard, shiny, very abundant and quite fine. It undulates in some areas, but without curling. The length varies in each part of the body: short on the face, snout and hock, medium on the back, and long on the neck, ears, chest and back of the thighs. The color is white with spots of various shades, such as brown, black and reddish.

	Approximate height of 28 cm in males and females
	Weight of between 2.5 and 5 kg in males and females
	Abundant and smooth hair, white with spots
	Friendly and caring character
	Strong health
	Estimated life expectancy between 14 and 16 years

 

What is the Papillon’s personality like?

The Papillon has always been a pet dog, so it continues to be. Contrary to what his appearance would make you think, is an energetic pet capable of adapting to various situations.

Family life is ideal for the Papillon, because It gets along well with adults, pets, and children. His cheerful and playful character they make it the joy of the house, they will know how to make you smile even on the grayest days.

Although not apparent, this puppy is very smart and agile, he loves games and exercise. Of course, he enjoys human pampering and is very mellow, for centuries he only dedicated himself to receiving samples of affection!

He can be a little suspicious with strangers and even loud, nothing that cannot be fixed with proper socialization and training. If you are looking for a happy and fun dog that is the soul of the house and coexists well with everyone, the Papillón is for you.

What care does a Papillon dog need?

The Company Spaniel is perfectly adapted to life in houses or apartments. Similarly, it lives well in all climates. Even so, you need to exercise regularly, so you can take him out for a walk every day for a while.

You can also exercise at home, looking for prizes or chasing the ball in the park. It is a curious dog, so it will go after any insect. During walks, remember to take it on a leash or bib, as they tend to stand up to larger dogs.

Because of its small size, many owners tend to spoil it, so you need stay strong during the training and socialization process. Do not worry, learn very easily, you just have to secure the orders correctly and use the positive reinforcement. Obedience classes and early socialization are recommended.

This does not mean that you should forget its size. It is a brave dog, but many times it is not measured, and the truth is that it can be easily hurt. Prevent him from running on the stairs, playing violently with other dogs or being left alone with children, as a single blow can injure him.

Being such a cuddly dog, he doesn’t like to be left alone for a long time, keep this in mind before adopting him.

Common Papillion diseases

This breed is incredibly long-lived, up to 16 years old can live! Very few dogs live that long. In general, it can be said that it is ve
ry healthy, although it is necessary to watch out for the appearance of some diseases:

• Eye problems
• Heart diseases
• Patella dislocation