The Papillon is a small, elegant toy breed known for its distinctive butterfly-like ears and energetic personality. Originally bred as a companion, they are intelligent, playful and adaptable, making them great family pets.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Europe, believed to have originated in Italy, the Papillon was developed as a companion dog for royalty and nobility.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
8-11 inches
3-10 pounds
Male
8-11 inches
3-10 pounds
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
White with markings of any color
Type
Single
Length
Long
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Low
Grooming
Regular
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Light and small in proportion to the body
Skull
Moderately rounded between the ears
Ears
Erect and well-fringed, resembling a butterfly's wings; may also be dropped (phalene variety)
Eyes
Dark, round, and expressive
Nose
Small, rounded, and black
Muzzle
Fine, pointed and abruptly thinner than the skull
Teeth
Scissor bite, upper teeth close over the lower teeth.
Neck
Moderately short
Forequarters
Straight and parallel
Fore Legs
Fine boned
Hindquarters
Well-developed and angled
Hind Legs
Straight and parallel
Feet
Small and hare-like
Tail
Long, well-feathered, and carried over the back
Gait
Light and free-flowing
Temperament
Alert, friendly, energetic, and intelligent
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very Affectionate
Good with Children
Generally good, but supervision advised with small children
Good with Dogs
Good with other dogs
Good with Cats
Good with cats
Openness to Strangers
Friendly and outgoing
Playfulness Level
Very playful
Protective Nature
Low
Adaptability Level
Adaptable
Working Roles
Companion
Exercise Needs
Moderate
Health
Generally healthy, but may be prone to luxating patellas, progressive retinal atrophy, and dental issues
Additional Notes
Known for their distinctive butterfly-like ears. They are very intelligent and easily trained. The “phalene” variety has dropped ears.
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