Non Sporting Group

Breed History: Some other names for this cute little dog are, Continental toy spaniel, dwarf spaniel, phalene (drop ear version). These dogs were originally bred in France/Belgium. It is a bred-down version of larger spaniels. Its type is believed to date to at least 1500. Also known as the dwarf spaniel, the papillon was popular with noblewomen. Madame Pompadour and Marie Antoinette both had pet papillons.

Breed Description: The papillon is a small, fine-boned dog. It is slightly longer than it is tall. Its head is small with a thin, tapered muzzle, which is about a third of the length of the head. The nose is small and black and the eyes are round and dark. The large ears are naturally erect, resembling the spread wings of a butterfly, from which the breed takes its name, and are well fringed. Except for their drooping position, the ears of the phanlene are similar. The papillon has thin, harelike feet. Its long, plumed tail is carried arched over the back. It is single coated, with long, silky, straight hair. The backs of the forelegs are feathered, and the chest has a profuse frill. It is parti-colored but the nose, eye rims, and lips are always black. Papillons weigh anywhere from 3 to 9 pounds and are 8 to 11 inches tall.

Temperament: The papillon is an alert dog that is friendly toward almost everyone, including children and other animals.

Energy Level: Low

Notes: These dogs are very adaptable and do good in almost any positive living situation. They especially make great apartment dogs. Because they are not very active, they do well with disabled and elderly people. They do require grooming on a regular basis and socialization with other dogs and people.

Health Concerns: Liver shunt, luxating patellas, and PRA.