Overview
The Continental Toy Spaniel is a small Belgian and French companion breed of spaniel type. It comes in two varieties that differ only in the ears: the Papillon, named for the French word for butterfly, has erect ears, while the Phalène, meaning moth, has drooping ones.
Despite its delicate look, it is a bright, sporty little dog that enjoys training and play as much as lap time.
History
Miniature spaniel-type lapdogs appear in European paintings from the sixteenth century onwards, including works by Titian, Veronese, Watteau and Fragonard. These little dogs were favourites of the courts of the Continent.
The American Kennel Club recognised the Papillon in 1935. The breed has since done well in obedience and agility, and a Papillon won Best in Show at Westminster in 1999 and at Crufts in 2019.
Appearance
This is a fine-boned dog standing no more than about 28 cm at the withers. Weight classes in the standard run from 1.5 to 2.5 kg and from 2.5 to 5 kg. The long, silky coat forms a frill on the chest and a plume of a tail arching over the back.
The Papillon's large fringed ears are carried upright like butterfly wings, while the Phalène's fall forward. The coat is mainly white with patches of colour, and the colour covers the head more than the white does.
Temperament
Papillons are cheerful, alert and people-loving. They are quick learners that thrive on interaction, and they often surprise people with how athletic and confident they are for their size.
They bond closely with their families and can be wary of strangers. They are best with gentle children who know how to handle a small dog.
Care and exercise
Daily walks and play sessions are enough to keep this breed content, along with mental work such as trick training or agility. They adapt well to apartment life.
The silky coat has little undercoat and tangles fairly easily, so brush it a few times a week. Regular dental care is important, as in most toy breeds.
Health
A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of about 14.5 years, which is good for a purebred. Patellar luxation, seizures and dental problems are the most noted concerns, along with progressive retinal atrophy, intervertebral disc disease and allergies.
