The Papillon breed
Papillon
Papillon: the little dog with butterfly ears
The Papillon is the prick-eared variety of the Continental Toy Spaniel, a small elegant dog with fringed ears shaped like butterfly wings. Lively, intelligent and playful, it is one of the most brilliant of all small breeds.
Origins of the Papillon
Descended from European toy spaniels featured in Flemish and Italian painting from the Renaissance, it was a favourite of Marie-Antoinette. The prick-eared variety (Papillon) coexists with the drop-eared variety (Phalène, RaceId 187).
Temperament and personality
The Papillon is known for:
- Remarkable liveliness and joie de vivre
- Intelligence among the highest of small breeds
- Great affection for its family
- Excellent sociability
It is playful, curious and always ready to learn.
Training and socialization
Intelligent and very eager to please, it learns extremely fast. Excellent in obedience and agility. Socialization is easy thanks to its open character.
Health and care
The Papillon is generally robust but may show:
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Dental issues (very common in toy breeds)
- Hypoglycaemia in puppies
Its long silky coat needs brushing 2–3 times a week (no heavy grooming, no undercoat).
The Papillon in the family
It is an ideal companion for families, gentle children and active seniors. Very good tolerance, excellent with other animals. Poor tolerance of prolonged solitude.
📌 Summary
Lively, brilliant and joyful, the Papillon is a little genius with butterfly ears, perfect for those wanting an intelligent and spirited companion.