Papillon History
The Papillon breed of dog takes its name from the French word for Butterfly "Papillon". An apt description of its widely set and erect but angled ears. It also has a thin white blaze between the ears, bisecting the face, that suggests the insects body.
The older variety of Papillon called the Phalene has been known since the 14th century. The Phalene takes its name from the butterfly's cousin, the moth, another winged beauty that folds its wings at rest. Phalenes and Papillons can be born in the same litter, they are identical except for the ears, Phalenes, are down, while the Papillons are upright. Through out Europe, the dainty little Papillon was a favorite of the ladies of the court, especially in France. European artist as far back as the 14th century, included Papillons in their paintings of kings and princes. The royal families were the only ones who could afford to buy and breed dogs solely for companions. They were also the favorites of kings, who used them as a guard dog, the Papillon slept with the king, and barked an alarm if anyone entered the kings night chamber. King Henri of France disregarded his Papillons warning, and was killed by a trusted monk.
Papillons were first registered by the AKC in 1915. The older variety of Papillon called the Phalene has been known since the 14th century. The Phalene takes its name from the butterfly's cousin, the moth, another winged beauty that folds its wings at rest. Phalenes and Papillons can be born in the same litter, they are identical except for the ears, Phalenes, are down, while the Papillons are upright. Through out Europe, the dainty little Papillon was a favorite of the ladies of the court, especially in France. European artist as far back as the 14th century, included Papillons in their paintings of kings and princes. The royal families were the only ones who could afford to buy and breed dogs solely for companions. They were also the favorites of kings, who used them as a guard dog, the Papillon slept with the king, and barked an alarm if anyone entered the kings night chamber. King Henri of France disregarded his Papillons warning, and was killed by a trusted monk.
Papillon Characteristics
The Papillon is a small, friendly, elegant Toy dog of fine-boned structure, light, dainty and lively of action. He is distinguished from other breed by his beautiful butterfly-like ears. Paps are very devoted to their masters, with a hearty spirit making them desirable for show or companionship. Papillons are hearty and usually long lived. They adapt to almost any climate and are comfortable in an apartment as well as the country. They are good travelers. They love to be with their family. They are friendly, happy, and eager to please. They are easy to train. They rank the number one dog in obedience. No one ever told them they were a "small dog", if you did they wouldn't listen.
Height: 8 - 11 inches
Weight: 3 - 9 pounds
Colors: From pale lemon and white to rich shades of red, chestnut, deep mahogany. Tris and black and white.
Temperament: Friendly, alert
Care: Weekly brushing of their coat. Trimming of their feet. Minimal bathing. Can obtain his exercise indoors, but loves to take walks outdoors.
Health Issues: Healthy toy. Some problems with inadequate tear production, progressive retinal atrophy and patella's.
Litter Size: 2 to 4
Country of Origin: France
Height: 8 - 11 inches
Weight: 3 - 9 pounds
Colors: From pale lemon and white to rich shades of red, chestnut, deep mahogany. Tris and black and white.
Temperament: Friendly, alert
Care: Weekly brushing of their coat. Trimming of their feet. Minimal bathing. Can obtain his exercise indoors, but loves to take walks outdoors.
Health Issues: Healthy toy. Some problems with inadequate tear production, progressive retinal atrophy and patella's.
Litter Size: 2 to 4
Country of Origin: France
