The Papillon dog Phalene is a rare breed with a unique appearance and charming personality. It's a small dog with a butterfly-like ear, weighing between 7-11 pounds.
They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Their fur is usually white with patches of other colors.
Their friendly and gentle nature makes them a great companion for families with children.
Breed Characteristics
The Phalène is a small dog, typically reaching eight to eleven inches in height and weighing seven to ten pounds.
Their ears are a key distinguishing feature, with Phalènes having drop ears instead of the butterfly-like ears of the Papillon breed.
Phalènes are social dogs that thrive on human company and can become unhappy if left alone for extended periods.
They are highly affectionate and gentle with their family, making them great companions for those who want a loving lapdog.
Phalènes are naturally protective and will happily bark at anyone they perceive as an intruder, making them decent watchdogs.
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Their high-pitched barking can be a consideration for those living in close proximity to neighbors who may not appreciate it.
Phalènes are relatively easy to train, especially with proper socialization from an early age, and are highly obedient.
Their high energy levels mean they require regular exercise, such as long walks or playtime in dog-sports like agility.
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Care and Grooming
When it comes to grooming your Papillon or Phalène, brushing is a must. They need to be brushed at least twice a week to prevent loose hair from shedding all over your home.
Their beautiful coats require regular maintenance to stay in top condition. A trip to a professional groomer a few times a year can help keep them looking their best.
Ear infections are a common issue for Phalènes, so regular ear checking and cleaning are essential. This will help prevent any potential problems from arising.
Anal glands need to be emptied every few months, and this can be done at home if you're feeling brave. Alternatively, a local veterinary clinic will be more than happy to help out with this unpleasant task.
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Exercise & Training
Phalène dogs are high-energy athletes that require a fair quantity of workouts to stay happy and healthy. They love to play and exercise, and need daily walks and playtime in a safely fenced area.
A 20-30 minute walk once or twice a day is a great way to keep your Phalène active and engaged. They also enjoy agility dog-sports and other activities that challenge their minds and bodies.
Phalène dogs are extremely obedient and quick to learn new tricks, making them a joy to train. They are keen to please and thrive on positive reinforcement.
However, Phalène dogs can be independent at times, so consistent training and supervision are essential. They also need to be supervised around bigger dogs, but can get along with cats and smaller dogs if raised with them.
To help with house-training, it's a good idea to limit your Phalène's toilet training area to a small section of the home. This can help prevent accidents in other areas of the house.
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Health
The Phalène is known for its good health, living well into its teens. This breed is recognized worldwide for its robust health.
However, like all breeds, the Phalène can be predisposed to certain health conditions. One such condition is Cushing's Disease, also known as Hyperadrenocorticism.
Symptoms of Cushing's Disease include fur thinning, excessive thirst, panting, and a pot-bellied appearance. These symptoms can be managed with medical therapy, but the condition requires life-long treatment.
If this caught your attention, see: Phalène
About and History
The Phalène is a lesser-known breed, but it's actually the predecessor to the Papillon, and you can still find Phalène variants in Papillon litters today.
The Phalène gets its name from the French word for moth, which is a nod to its distinctive appearance.
The exact origin of the breed is unclear, but it's believed to have existed since before the 16th century.
You can spot Phalène-like dogs in paintings from the time, such as in Titian's "Venus of Urbino", completed in 1534.
Small spaniel dogs like the Phalène were popular among the higher classes in Europe, and were primarily kept as companions.
The Phalène is often debated to be from France, Belgium, or Italy, with each country claiming it as their own at some point in history.
Interestingly, the Phalène may have given rise to the Papillon, or it may have been bred with Spitz dogs to create the erect-eared dogs we see today.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies the Phalène as a variety of the Papillon, while the FCI considers it a separate breed entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Papillon with floppy ears called?
A Papillon with floppy ears is called a Phalene, named for its characteristic folded or dropped ears. This unique breed is known for its intelligence and quick learning abilities.
What is the life expectancy of a Papillon?
A Papillon's average lifespan is 14 to 16 years, making them a long-lived companion. With proper care, they can thrive for nearly two decades.
How rare is a Papillon dog?
The Papillon is not a rare breed, but it's not extremely common either. Its moderate popularity makes it a breed worth learning more about.
What two dogs make up a Papillon?
The Papillon is believed to be a cross between smaller spaniels and Oriental toy dogs, such as the Japanese Chin. This unique blend of breeds resulted in a lapdog version of the spaniel.
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