Author: Connie Limon
The word Papillon is French for "butterfly." The Papillon was
named for its erect butterflylike ears that frame its face.
Apparently the Papillon was developed in France during the
sixteenth century from a small, long-eared dog called the
Belgian Spaniel or Dwarf Spaniel. At the time the spaniels were
popular in Spain, Italy and France. Down-ear and erect-ear types
exist today and are judged by the same breed standards in AKC
shows.
The diminutive breed was popular with European landed gentry
and royal courts' ladies for many years before the mutation
created the Papillon known today. The petite Papillon was
designed to be a decorative lapdog. It has been reported that
Madame Pompadour and Marie Antoinette owned Papillons.
Ownership today is not limited to the upper class.
Papillons are excellent companions. They are hardier than they
appear and are comfortable in all climates. They love the
outdoors. The Papillon probably prefers to romp in the yard or
take a leashed walk and rather would not be picked up and held.
The Papillon can socialize with other small pets and children
who have been properly instructed in small dog care.
Personality
A Papillon is lively, intelligent and loves to learn. It is
loving and loveable, but is sometimes suspicious of strangers
and prefers the company of its family. The Papillon is best
trained with gentleness and consistency. He wants to please his
owners and will look to you for rewards both verbal and edible.
The Papillon is usually well represented in obedience classes
and often surpasses larger dogs in learning ability. The
Papillon also makes an excellent therapy or visitation dog
after minimal obedience training.
Appearance
The Papillon stands 8 to 11 inches tall and weighs about 9 to
10 pounds. The Papillon is has a dainty and refined appearance
with a fine bone structure. His legs are straight and feet are
elongated. Its eyes are dark and not bulgy. The lip margins,
nose rubber and eyelid rims are black. The tail is long, high
set, and arched over the body.
Grooming
The coat is long, fine, silky and requires regular brushing.
The Papillon does not have an undercoat. The coat falls flat on
the back and sides with a profuse frill on the chest. It is
short and close on the skull, muzzle and front legs. The rear
of the forelegs, tail and thighs are covered with long hair.
The Papillon's coat is easy to maintain with weekly brushing.
You will need a plastic pin brush or bristle brush and comb.
You can use a special whitening shampoo to make the coat shine.
Brush through the coat with a pin brush, then comb with a
medium-toothed comb.
About The Author: Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at
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