Papillon

The Papillon is a small continental toy spaniel named for its butterfly-like upright ears, with the drop-eared variety known as the Phalene in many breed discussions. It has a fine-boned but lively body, a plumed tail, and a silky coat that is white with colored patches. The breed appears in European companion-dog history and portraiture, but it should not be mistaken for a fragile ornament. Many Papillons are quick, observant, and surprisingly athletic for their size.

A Papillon often suits homes that want a small dog capable of real training. It can do well in agility, obedience, trick work, therapy visits, and busy family routines when handled respectfully. The coat needs brushing around ears, tail, and feathering, but it does not require heavy sculpting. Dental care is important, as with many toy breeds, and breeders commonly watch knees, eyes, heart health, and fontanel or skull concerns in puppies. Because the breed is bright and people-focused, poor boundaries can create barking or bossiness just as easily as harsh handling can create worry.

Colors: Apricot, Bicolor, Black, Black and Tan, Black and White, Black Mask, Black White and Tan, Blue, Blue and Tan, Blue Merle, Blue Roan, Blue Tick, Brindle, Brown, Brown and Tan, Brown and White, Chocolate, Cream, Dapple, Domino, Fawn, Fawn and White, Gold, Gray, Harlequin, Irish Marked, Liver, Liver Mask, Mantle, Mask, Merle, Mottled, Parti-Color, Piebald, Red, Red and White, Red Merle, Red Roan, Red Tick, Reverse Brindle, Roan, Sable, Saddle, Silver, Speckled, Spotted, Tan, Ticked, Tricolor, Tuxedo, White, White and Black, White and Brown, White and Red, White and Sable, Yellow