Papillon Dog AKC: Breed Overview and Buying Advice

The Papillon is a small, gentle dog that's perfect for families with children or for those who live in apartments. They weigh between 7 and 11 pounds and stand between 8 and 11 inches tall.

Papillons have a long history, dating back to the 16th century in Europe. They were originally bred as companions for royalty.

Their beautiful butterfly-like ears are one of their most distinctive features, and they require regular grooming to prevent matting.

The Papillon is a delightful little dog that makes a great part-time lap dog and exercise buddy. They're perfect for households with apartments and are an excellent breed for first-time dog owners.

Papillons are small and can be hurt easily by rough play, so it's essential to teach kids to be respectful and gentle with them.

Their intelligence is one of their most notable characteristics, and they're considered to be the smartest and most trainable of all toy breeds.

Here's a breakdown of their characteristics:

Papillons are highly social dogs and get along well with other dogs, pets, and people of all ages. However, it's crucial to socialize them properly to ensure they interact well with larger dogs and cats.

The Papillon breed has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It was once known as a dwarf spaniel and may have originated in France.

The breed gained popularity in Spain and Italy over time, where they were often depicted in classic paintings. The drop-eared variety, known as the phalene, was the most common type until the late 1800s.

Papillons with erect ears didn't appear until the late 1800s. This is when the breed started to gain recognition for its unique feature.

The first Papillon was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1915. This marked a significant milestone for the breed.

Papillons were brought to the U.S. during the late 19th century. They quickly gained popularity among dog owners.

A Papillon named Loteki Supernatural Being (Kirby) won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show in 1999. He was a notable example of the breed's success.

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The Papillon breed was developed in the 17th century by a breeder in French King Louis XIV's court. This breeder gave the breed the name "Papillon", which means butterfly in French.

These little dogs with the butterfly ears quickly became all the rage in France, where they were favorites of Madame de Pompadour and Marie Antoinette. They were further refined and popularized by breeders in Italy and Spain.

The American Kennel Club registered the Papillon breed in 1915. Today, you can find information about reputable breeders on the AKC website.

Papillons are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they do require regular care and upkeep to stay healthy and happy.

They have very little undercoat, which tends not to mat, and are only a moderate shedder. A weekly brushing is necessary to prevent tangles, especially around the ears, inner legs, and thighs.

Their exercise needs can be met within a small space, even an apartment, but they still require at least an hour of physical activity per day. This can be achieved through playtime, walks, or even just running around the house.

Papillons are prone to dental problems and periodontal disease, so their teeth should be brushed daily, and they should have annual dental checkups and cleanings by a veterinarian.

Their nails should be trimmed every two weeks, and their dewclaws should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from curling inward and causing injury.

Here are some key grooming and care needs to keep in mind:

By following these care and upkeep tips, you can help keep your Papillon happy, healthy, and looking their best.

Papillons are energetic and driven, so they need plenty of active playtime. Routine exercise is highly recommended, with two to three walks per day for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. They should have a yard or dog park available where they can run around.

They can be a bit stubborn, but they're also smart and should learn well with consistent obedience training. This is a must, especially since they like to be the pack leader and can develop small dog syndrome if not trained correctly.

Papillons need 30-45 minutes of exercise each day, which can be met by vigorous playtime in the backyard or in a long hallway or large living room, in addition to one or two short walks throughout the day. They're rather speedy, with quick sprints topping out at 18 MPH!

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Exercise is crucial for Papillons, who are energetic and driven. They need plenty of active playtime.

A routine of two to three walks per day for 20 to 30 minutes at a time is highly recommended. Papillons can also benefit from having a yard or dog park available where they can run around.

Because they have a single-layer coat, they may need protection or a sweater during cold weather. However, they tolerate hot weather well.

Daily exercise is a must for Papillons, and energetic play can provide much of their daily exercise needs. They're agile and love to perform in agility courses.

Dog parks with agility equipment can be an excellent way to keep Papillons happy. Just be mindful of large dogs and try to visit dog parks that have separate sections for large and small dogs.

Papillons need 30-45 minutes of exercise each day to deplete their energy levels. This can be met by vigorous playtime in the backyard or in a long hallway or large living room.

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They're rather speedy, topping out at 18 MPH with quick sprints. So, it's essential to supervise them during exercise to ensure they stay out of trouble.

Papillons do love to cuddle, but they're not a good match for couch potatoes who shun the outdoors. They need interaction and mental stimulation on top of physical exercise to stay calm and happy.

Papillons are smart and love to please their owners, making them amazing candidates for obedience trials and training.

Consistency is key with the Papillon, as they can sometimes get over-excited and distracted; using short sessions and always ending on a positive note can keep their attention.

Their intelligence, combined with their cheerfulness and natural enjoyment of activities, make them a joy to train with positive reinforcement methods that focus on rewarding desired behaviors with treats, fun toys, and praise.

Papillons are naturally inclined to be the pack leader, so consistent obedience training is a must to prevent small dog syndrome and undesirable behavior like jumping up and growling at their owner.

They take on many tasks with ease, especially if you use treats and positive training methods, and they're brilliant entertainers when performing tricks in the home.

Teaching the basic safety commands, such as come, heel, and drop it, is essential to prevent their overconfidence and adventurous spirit from leading them into danger.

Training should begin when they're puppies and include proper socialization, which involves safely exposing them to new people, places, and experiences.

They're one of the most popular toy breeds for obedience and agility trials, and for good reason - they're intelligent, eager to please, and love to learn.

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Papillons are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. One common condition is Patellar Luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and lameness.

To manage this condition, responsible owners can work with their veterinarian to implement a weight management plan and provide joint supplements. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help alleviate symptoms.

Papillons are also susceptible to Hypoglycemia, a condition where their blood sugar levels drop too low. This can be a serious issue, especially in puppies, and requires prompt treatment. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent episodes of hypoglycemia.

Some other health concerns to be aware of include Dental Diseases, which can be prevented with regular tooth brushing and annual dental cleanings. Open Fontanelle, a soft spot in the top of the skull, is common in Papillons and usually closes within the first 9-12 weeks of age.

Here are some common health issues to watch out for in Papillons:

Papillons are prone to knee problems, so it's essential to ensure they don't become overweight. Most papillons do well with 1/4 to 1/2 cups of dry food, divided into two meals.

To avoid overfeeding, don't leave food out for free-feeding throughout the day. Make sure you and your family members don't feed a papillon human food as a treat.

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Measuring out your Papillon's food and getting the best quality you can afford will keep them trim. Buying in bulk will save you money.

Small-breed diets are ideal, but you can also talk to your veterinarian for feeding advice. Papillon puppies should always be fed frequently since small breeds are prone to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

A high-quality commercial dog food that's formulated for their current stage in life, whether puppy, adult or senior, is typically best for Papillons. Food that's made especially for small dogs or toy breeds can help provide any special nutritional needs for dogs this size.

While there's no standard feeding chart for Papillons, your vet can guide you on the type of food and diet appropriate for your dog. When giving treats, remember to deduct those calories from their overall daily diet.

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The Papillon breed is generally a healthy one, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some of these issues can be managed with proper care and attention.

Patellar Luxation is a common hereditary condition in Papillons, where the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and lameness. This can often be managed with weight management and joint supplements.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common problem in toy breeds like the Papillon. Symptoms can include lack of energy, lack of appetite, and in severe cases, seizures. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help avoid episodes of hypoglycemia.

Dental diseases are another issue common in small breeds, thanks to smaller mouths that tend to crowd their teeth. Prevention is key, so make sure to brush their teeth frequently and schedule annual dental cleanings.

Open Fontanelle is a condition where a soft spot in the top of the skull remains open after birth. This usually closes within the first 9-12 weeks of age, but in some cases, it may remain open. There's typically no impact on everyday life, but it can be an issue if the pup has a head trauma.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary condition that can cause blindness in dogs over time. A genetic screening test is available, so be sure to ask your breeder about it.

Here are some health issues to be aware of in Papillons:

Owning a Papillon can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to consider their unique needs and characteristics. They are a toy breed, and their small size can make them fragile, so they require gentle handling.

Papillons are relatively low-maintenance pets, with moderate grooming needs and a moderate exercise requirement. They are highly trainable and active, making them a great fit for families and active owners. They are also friendly and adaptable, making them a great addition to any home.

If you're considering bringing a Papillon into your family, be prepared to spend around $800 to $3,000 for a puppy from a breeder. You can also consider adopting from a rescue group or the PapAdopters & Placement Service, which can be a more affordable option.

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Adopting or buying a Papillon can be a bit of a challenge. If you're set on buying a Papillon, be prepared to pay between $800 to $3,000 for a puppy. Finding a reputable breeder can be tough, but The Papillon Club of America is a great resource to start with.

A Papillon breeder can charge anywhere from $800 to $3,000 for a puppy, so it's essential to research and find a breeder that suits your budget. I've heard of people paying upwards of $3,000 for a Papillon puppy, but that's not always necessary.

If you're interested in adopting a Papillon, research local rescue groups or try the PapAdopters & Placement Service, a volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing and re-homing purebred Papillons. They can help you find a Papillon in need of a loving home.

Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when adopting or buying a Papillon:

Keep in mind that Papillons are a toy breed, which means they can be fragile and easily injured due to their light and small size.

Owning a Papillon can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to consider their specific needs and characteristics.

Papillons are a toy breed, which means they're fragile and can easily become injured due to their light and small size.

To adopt a Papillon, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars, but buying from a breeder can cost anywhere from $800 to $3,000.

Finding a reputable breeder can be challenging, but the Papillon Club of America is a great resource to start your search.

Papillons are highly trainable, friendly, and active, making them an excellent choice for families with children.

However, it's crucial to supervise interactions between small children and Papillons due to their small size.

Here are some key characteristics to consider when deciding if a Papillon is right for you:

If you're an active family, you'll be pleased to know that Papillons can keep up with long walks and hikes, but they do require daily exercise.

Papillons also thrive in social environments, but they need to be with a human who can be home most of the time or take them to work.

As for getting along with other pets, Papillons are generally friendly and can warm up to other dogs and cats with proper socialization.