Papillon Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Papillon looks like a delicate heirloom, but it behaves like an athlete. Fringed butterfly ears frame an alert face, and the brain behind it is one of the sharpest in the toy group.

Origins and appearance

Small spaniels with large ears appear in European paintings from the Renaissance, and the breed that became the Papillon developed in France and Belgium. A variety with drooping ears is called the Phalene, meaning moth. Today's Papillon has a fine-boned frame, a silky coat with long fringes on ears, chest and tail, and a white base marked with patches of color.

Temperament

Papillons are friendly, lively and intelligent. They like attention and training and are surprisingly confident for their size. They bond closely with family and can be wary of strangers if poorly socialized. With little provocation they may bark. See why do dogs bark excessively.

Exercise

Papillons need more activity than many toy breeds. Daily walks and a vigorous play session satisfy most. They enjoy agility, trick training and fetch. Because they are small and quick, use a secure leash outdoors and a fenced yard.

Training

They learn fast and often master tricks in a few repetitions. Positive reinforcement and variety keep them engaged. Teach recall early. See recall training guide. Because of their size, house training can take extra patience, but they are generally cooperative.

Coat and grooming

The long, silky coat has no thick undercoat, so it tangles less than many breeds. Brush a few times a week and bathe monthly. Check the ear fringes for knots and trim hair around the feet. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Brush teeth often, since toy breeds are prone to dental disease.

Health considerations

Papillons are generally considered one of the healthier toy breeds, but concerns include:

• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Progressive retinal atrophy and other eye conditions
• Sensitivity to anesthesia, so choose an experienced vet. See anesthesia safety for dogs
• Collapsing trachea. See collapsing trachea in dogs
• Seizures reported in some lines

Living with a Papillon

Papillons fit apartments and active households. They suit owners who enjoy outings and training. Protect them from cold and from falls, and supervise around large dogs and small children.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Papillon suits an active person who wants a trainable, long-lived small dog. It may not suit someone away much of the day or who wants a sedentary pet. For a calmer alternative, see the Maltese.

Puppies and the first year

Papillon puppies are quick learners and enjoy structured play from an early age. Socialize them to people, sounds and surfaces during the first months, and begin training for recall and polite greetings. Use soft toys and puzzle feeders to build focus. Handle ears, feet and mouth so grooming and dental care are easy. See puppy socialization checklist.

Common owner mistakes

Papillons are sometimes underexercised because of their size, which can show up as barking and nervous energy. Others get too little training, even though the breed excels at it. Avoid letting them jump from heights, protect them from cold and keep up dental care. Give them a job, such as a trick routine or a sport, and they tend to thrive.

The takeaway

Papillons are brainy, bouncy and long-lived, and they thrive with training and activity.