The Papillon dog breed has been around for over 700 years, and they are beloved and popular small, loyal lap dogs.
The Papillon, also called the Continental Toy Spaniel or the Squirrel Spaniel, is one of the most popular breeds of small lap dogs. Their most defining feature is their ears, which are either erect, resembling outstretched butterfly wings (and in fact, Papillon means "˜butterfly' in French), or drooping (called Phalene). Papillons have been beloved pets for over 700 years. They are featured in many Renaissance paintings, where they are seated on the laps of their doting well-to-do owners. They have short, slightly pointed muzzles, dark noses, and prominent white nose bands. Their coat is soft and silky, and it remains shiny and lustrous so long as they are regularly brushed. The coloring of the coat is mostly white with patches of brown, black, or red and patches of non-white over their eyes and ears. They have an alert and intelligent expression, and their perky little tails are upturned over their backs.
The average lifespan of a Papillon is 13 to 14 years, although some live several years longer than that. While this is a predominantly healthy breed of dog, there are some ailments that are more common than others in Papillons. Knee cap problems are somewhat prevalent, particularly if a Papillon doesn't get sufficient exercise or is overweight. The healthy weight range for an adult male Papillon is 8 to 10 pounds, and the average healthy weight is 7 to 9 pounds for females. Their diet should consist primarily of a dry dog food that is labeled as being nutritionally complete and balanced, but they also can have some meats and vegetables or canned wet dog food.
Papillons are not the best dogs for apartment living. They are known for barking when they hear strange noises, and living in an apartment building can cause them to become a little nervous because they won't ever be able to see what the source is of all the noises they keep hearing - and your neighbors aren't likely to appreciate all the yapping either. Also, they love roaming and running in a backyard - they are a very playful, active breed, although they only require about half an hour of active play each day. However, they do not require a large yard and they are perfectly suitable for small homes.
Papillons are very loyal and loving towards their owners and family, but they can be a bit standoffish and nervous around strangers. Some Papillons are possessive of their owners and they will even become nippy when other people or animals approach him or her. The best way to avoid aggressive behavior is to only get a Papillon puppy from a reputable and reliable breeder with a proven track-record and also to train your puppy as soon as you bring him or her home. Papillons can get along well with cats if they live with them from the time that they are puppies, but they are known to sometimes be aggressive towards other dogs. Papillons aren't best for young children because they don't enjoy rough play and they may get nippy if aggravated by a child, but they can do well with older, gentle kids and teenagers.
