Papillon
Description
Countries of origin for this tiny little spaniel are Belgium, France, and England. In the famous 1538 painting “Venus de Urbino” by painter Tiziano (Titian) Vecellio you will find the early ancestors of these little dogs curled at the lady’s feet. This little dog was also included in a family portrait of Louis XIV, and can be seen in other paintings of other royal families in Europe. Two versions of this little dog. The drop eared version called the Phalene, and the the erect eared version called the Papillon. They stand 8 to 11 in. in height (over 11 in is considered fault), and weigh 7 to 10 pounds. Papillons are what is called Parti-colored which means white with any color of markings. The other colors can be red, lemon, silver, black, brown, sable, black and brown just to list a few. All white or a dog with no white is disqualified from the conformation show ring. The most distinctive feature on the Papillon is of course the ears ( Papillon is french for butterfly). The fur of the Papillon is soft, silky, and long.
Temperament
Looks are deceiving with this little dog. They are athletic, and highly intelligent. You will need to be pack leader over this little guy, so he doesn’t’ become possessive, or develop bad habits, If socialized early on he will get along well with cats. They can be a challenge to house train. Loving and affectionate to there owners. Very protective of the home they live in they will bark
Grooming/Exercise
They will need daily combing and grooming of their long coats. Bathing when needed, nails trimmed, and regular visits to the dentist to have tartar removed from their teeth. Not recommended for apartment living as they have a tenancy to bark at all things. A house with a secure yard is suggested. They will need daily walking playing just isn’t enough.
Health
Life expectancy for this dog is up to 16 years.
Possible Issues
- Patella issues in the hind legs ( can sometimes be corrected with surgery)
- Papillons have a soft spot on the top of the head much like a human baby does. If in time this doesn’t correct itself surgery may have to be done.
