Pronunciation

Pap ee on

Description

The Papillon has a tail that is long & plumed & carried curled over the back. Its long lustrous coat is white with patches of any colour, except liver. The butterfly ears are carried erect. There is a well-defined white noseband. It has an alert and intelligent expression. The Papillon's muzzle is short and a bit pointed. A colour other than white should cover both eyes and both ears back to front.

Temperament

The Papillon is sometimes called the butterfly dog - because the ears look like butterfly wings. It is a friendly, intelligent dog. A gentle and affectionate dog, lively, vivacious and charming. Playful and amusing but can also be calm, patient, gentle and dignified. It may be very possessive of its owner. Papillons do best with older, considerate children.

Height, weight

Height:  Dogs 8-11 inches (20-28cm)
Weight:  Dogs 7-10 pounds

Exercise

These playful little dogs love to go for a run but won't fret too much if confined to the house.

Grooming

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.

Origin

The Papillon is one of the oldest breeds of dog, with a recorded history in Europe going back nearly 700 years. Originally called the dwarf spaniel, and sported spaniel-type dropped ears. The dog was later known as the Continental Toy Spaniel and this tiny breed is recognizable in 13th - 15th century Italian frescoes. It was featured in many paintings of the Renaissance period.