Papillon - description and characteristics of the breed. Favorite of French kings - Papillon Papillon breed features

This article will talk about the wonderful and amazing French Papillon dog breed. It is worth noting that this is not the only name for this breed, many breeders cannot unanimously decide what to call it correctly: Papillon or Papillon, so both names are widely known, this breed is also called the dwarf continental toy spaniel, and many simply call this dog Papillon "butterfly" because of its unusual ears. However, she only has long hair on her ears, so we classify her as .

The French Papillon dog got its name thanks to its original ears.

So, what are the main advantages of this breed? You can immediately answer this question and confidently say that it has a huge number of advantages. and much more than shortcomings. In this article I will try to briefly introduce the characteristics of the breed, but later we will definitely talk about them in more detail.

Size

This breed is very miniature. The Papillon has similar dimensions to the long-haired Prague Ratbird, and its appearance is also more or less similar. Recently at an exhibition I saw a charming young man who looked so much like Papillon that even I almost confused them.

• Height is about 27 cm,
• Weight can reach up to 5 kg.

Its miniature size is perfect for apartment living, travel and other pastimes.

Appearance

One of the main advantages is the appearance of this wonderful dog. Besides the fact that it is small in size, it is also incredibly beautiful and luxurious. These dogs have a beautiful, harmonious physique, a doll-like face, rich fur, and expressive eyes. The hallmark of this breed are the ears, which are much larger than those of other dogs, but firmly set and reminiscent of butterfly wings. But this is not the most important characteristic of the breed. What's more important is her intelligence.

Mental capacity

These dogs are incredibly smart. The Papillon breed has high intelligence, it even takes 7th position in the list of the smartest dogs. These are very sensitive pets. They are good at capturing mood and intonation, and understand their owners perfectly. In addition to great mental abilities, nature also endowed them with excellent memory.

Interesting photo

Character

The Papillon butterfly dog ​​has a simply unique character. First of all, this is a very loyal animal that loves its owners very much and cannot easily endure long separations from them. Also, these dogs are very active, energetic, playful and joyful, they can always cheer up their owners and keep children occupied. But it is worth noting that due to the fact that they get very used to and become attached to their owners, they can be jealous, touchy, and vulnerable. Papillon has a peaceful character. He does not like to be scolded and may be offended by even a slight increase in his voice.

Price

This breed is quite expensive.

If you choose this one, get ready for serious expenses. If you do not plan to attend exhibitions and you are indifferent to breeding, it is better to be satisfied with a puppy without a pedigree, purchased through advertisements in specialized publications. This is not the best option, but it still exists. In this case, you will have to spend 10 - 15 thousand rubles.

If you want a truly purebred pet, then you will have to spend about 30 - 40 thousand rubles. Yes, I agree, these are serious expenses, but they are worth it. Definitely! In addition, there is an option in which, after a long search, you will get an adult Papillon, the price of which also starts from 30 thousand rubles.

Upbringing

IN raising this breed will also be a pleasant process for you. Since representatives of this breed are very smart, they are easy to train, but they need to be raised from puppyhood.

The Papillon dog is inquisitive, open, loves to explore the world around them, and shows excellent results at various exhibitions and competitions. In this it is similar to some other breeds.

Care

Not with her luxurious long hair. Papillons are fairly unpretentious dogs and do not require serious, expensive care. The most important thing for them is your love and care. Caring for the Papillon mainly consists of cleaning the ears and teeth, grooming the coat in the form of weekly brushing, daily walks, nail trimming, and proper nutrition.

Useful video

If you are interested in this article, watch a very interesting video in which they will not only tell you about this wonderful breed, but also show you its representatives.

Conclusion

These are not all the advantages of this wonderful breed. If you want to make yourself a truly devoted and affectionate friend, then the Papillon Butterfly dog ​​breed is ideal for you.

Update: October 2017

Papillon (Papillon) is a breed of decorative companion dogs. The official name is “Continental Toy Spaniel.” Translated from French, “papillon” means “butterfly”. Distinctive qualities:

• cute appearance;
• large movable ears reminiscent of butterfly wings;
• light graceful movements;
• almost human character;
• high intelligence (they are in 8th place in the ranking of the smartest dogs);
• impeccable memory;
• curiosity;
• people-oriented;
• loyalty, friendliness;
• security qualities;
• hunting instincts.

a brief description of

What is the difference between Papillons and Phalenes?	Phalene (translated as "moth") is a type of breed. The main difference is the different shape and position of the ears; the Phalene has drooping ears, while the Papillon has erect ears. They also differ in character and behavior. Papillons are more mobile, Phalenes behave calmer.
Who is the breed suitable for?	For beginners, active people. This is not a pampered sofa dog, you can take it to the forest, on a hike, on trips, the pet will not mind frolicking in a noisy company. Not suitable for busy people, families with small children (a child may accidentally injure a small dog).
Boys and girls: what are the differences in character?	Girls are more affectionate, emotional and tender. Boys look more impressive, more courageous and decisive. However, they can mark in the apartment.
Does a Papillon have a lot of hair?	They don't shed very much because they don't have undercoat. During the shedding period, daily brushing is necessary.
Is it possible to cut hair?	Clipped Papillons are not allowed to show, but non-show dogs can be cut.
Do you need clothes for walking in the cold season?	Yes, but in extreme cases: if there is a lot of wet snow or severe frost outside. Such dogs are very mobile, so they are not threatened by the cold.
Do they bark often?	No. They only speak out when there are suspicious sounds. They can bark if they get too excited.

Pros:

1. Smart, obedient, highly trainable.
2. They successfully participate in agility and other dog sports.
3. Convenient in everyday life and handling.
4. You can take it with you on trips.
5. They don't bark for no reason.
6. Playful, cheerful.
7. They are distinguished by good health.
8. Kind and affectionate with all family members.
9. They treat children warmly.
10. Get along well with pets.

Minuses:

1. The coat, ears and eyes require constant care.
2. Physical activity is required.
3. With a lack of attention they become irritable.
4. Sometimes they show aggressiveness (mainly due to improper socialization).
5. They can bite painfully.
6. They are affectionate and cannot be left alone.
7. Jealous, touchy.

Photo papillon

Character, behavioral characteristics

Papillon dogs are distinguished by a balanced character; nervousness is unusual for them. They are friendly, peaceful and sociable towards others. These are positive, energetic, active dogs. They love to frolic and will not sit still. Even at home, they are constantly looking for something to do. On the street they actively study the world around them, hunt insects and rodents.

They are vulnerable, cannot stand rough treatment, and even suffer from shouting. It should be noted that if socialized incorrectly, a dog can instantly switch from play to rage. Papillon bites are very painful.

Learning ability

They are inquisitive and show interest in everything new. They are very smart, obedient, have an excellent memory, and a keen intellect. Commands are learned quickly and easily. A dog can be taught a wide variety of tricks.

Attitude towards the owner and children

They are infinitely loyal to their owner and prefer to be nearby. They subtly sense the mood of the people around them. They need attention and affection. When alone they experience stress, and with a lack of communication they become irritable. In the company of the owner, they easily adapt to changing conditions and tolerate trips and travel well.

They love children, are very friendly, and take part in games with pleasure. However, a small child should not be left alone with a dog: if handled carelessly, the pet may become aggressive. Papillon care can be entrusted to a child from 10 years old.

Attitude towards strangers

They are distrustful, show restraint, and are wary. Representatives of the breed are distinguished by good watchdog qualities. These are sensitive and attentive guards, but they will not bark in vain. If necessary, they will actively protect the owner.

Attitude towards pets

Get along well with other pets, including cats. They often become initiators of joint games in which they take an active part. If the owner is often not at home, it is recommended to get another dog or cat so that the Papillon does not feel lonely. Larger relatives are treated very carefully on the street.

It can be kept in a small apartment or in a country house with adjacent territory. In any case, a daily walk is necessary, at least 2 times for 20-30 minutes. It is not advisable to train the dog to the tray; the dog should have plenty of exercise. She needs active and eventful walks. Papillons are clean and try not to get dirty. At home, you just need to wash your pet’s paws.

Hair care: combing with a metal comb 2 times a week, during the shedding period - daily. Using a spray bottle, pre-moisten the coat with conditioner diluted with water. The tangles need to be cut off. You should not comb dirty, dry hair, as this will cause the hair to become brittle.

Combing ear fur: Spray with shine product diluted with water and comb. If tangles appear, treat the hair on the ears with anti-tangle spray, then carefully remove the lumps and comb the hair.

Grooming: non-show dogs only. A popular haircut is “lion-like,” when the hairline is shortened on the body. For hygienic purposes, all individuals must have the hair trimmed on their paws, between the toes, at the anus, and in the groin area. To make the dog look neat, also trim the elongated hairs on the belly, the inside of the pastern (to the pads). On the hind legs, even out the fur on the metatarsus (up to the hocks).

Bathing: 1 rub./week. or due to contamination. Frequent washing is not recommended, otherwise the skin will become too dry. Use a special shampoo that will not give the coat a yellow tint. How to bathe:

1. Mix shampoo with a little water.
2. Moisten the dog's fur.
3. Apply shampoo, first to the back, then to the sides and legs.
4. Rub in the cleaning solution thoroughly.
5. Wash your dog's head; water should not get into the eyes, ears, nose or mouth.
6. Rinse off the shampoo with a generous shower.
7. Squeeze out the fur with your hands.
8. Dry with a towel.

For non-show dogs, natural drying of the coat is recommended. If you use a hair dryer, make sure the air is not too hot. Otherwise, the hairs will become brittle. While drying, you can spray the wool with an oil-based shine product diluted with water in a ratio of 1 to 10.

Paw care includes:

1. Trimming claws with a nail clipper - 1 rub. at 2 months The fifth dewclaw needs to be removed at the veterinary clinic; it causes discomfort for the dog when moving.
2. Washing paws after a walk. You can simply wipe them with a damp cloth. To prevent cracks from appearing, rub vegetable oil into the pads.

Ear care: regular inspection, cleaning with a cotton pad moistened with water.

Dental care: brushing 2-3 times/week. To prevent tartar from appearing, give your pet solid food, special toys, and rawhide chips.

Eye care: 1 rub./week. wipe with a cotton swab moistened with chamomile infusion or warm water. If tear tracks appear, use special lotions.

Health, tendency to disease

Papillons are distinguished by good health, but are still prone to certain diseases:

1. Entropy (turn of the century). It is characterized by a change in the position of the organ, with the edge of the upper or lower eyelid and eyelashes touching the eyeball. As a result, chronic inflammation develops. The consequences are ulcers and blindness. Symptoms of the disease: squinting of the affected eye, lacrimation, purulent discharge. Treatment is surgical; if anesthesia is intolerant, autohemotherapy is performed.
2. Cataract. Eye disease, the main symptom is clouding of the lens. Due to visual impairments, the dog moves carefully and sometimes bumps into objects. Pathology leads to blindness. The only treatment is surgical; during the operation, the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial one.
3. Dystrophy of the cornea of ​​the eye. It manifests itself as a decrease in the transparency of the cornea. Symptoms: swelling, clouding of the cornea, the appearance of erosions, ulcers, blurred vision. Treatment includes the prescription of antibiotics and topical drugs (including atropine). Late stage disease is treated surgically.
4. Congenital deafness. The pathology is associated with a defective gene or caused by intrauterine infection, toxic factors that acted on the body in the prenatal period. The puppy is born deaf and remains so for the rest of its life. The use of special devices is ineffective.

To identify pathology, just clap your hands and look at the animal’s reaction. Individuals with this disorder are not allowed to be bred. Deaf dogs adapt to the lack of hearing and lead normal life activities, since their perception is balanced by increased vision and smell. Such a pet can be taught commands that are given using gestures.

Choosing a puppy, care, maintenance, education

Pay attention to the conditions of detention and the behavior of the children. When choosing a puppy, consider physical characteristics. The main criteria are indicated in the breed description:

• correct proportions of body parts;
• correct position of the tail and limbs;
• coat color corresponding to the standard;
• lack of nervousness, aggression.

Look at the documents issued to the puppy's parents:

1. Pedigree.
2. Breeding certificate with the dog's assessment. It is necessary that the document contains a note indicating permission for breeding.
3. Breeding passport indicating the date of mating. There must be at least 9 months between two litters.

Metrics are issued for babies, as well as veterinary passports (if vaccination has been carried out). The purchase of an animal is formalized by a purchase and sale agreement, which has legal force. A pedigree for a puppy is obtained from the kennel club; it is issued on the basis of metrics.

Prepare a place for the puppy - a mattress or bed. Take care of your baby's safety in advance. For this:

1. Raise all wires to a height inaccessible to the dog.
2. Remove sharp, breakable, small objects, and household chemicals.
3. Check that cabinet doors close securely.
4. Hide books and shoes in a safe place.

Buy 2 ceramic or stainless steel bowls. A soft nylon or leather collar 1 cm wide is suitable for ammunition. Using a harness is not recommended.

The puppy will need toys: a ball made of molded rubber, objects made of latex. During the period of teeth change, you can give him branches and peeled carrots.

Caring for Papillon puppies includes hygiene of the ears, eyes, and teeth. The frequency of necessary procedures is the same as for adults. Brush the fur regularly, then the pet will look well-groomed.

Walk your baby daily, 3-5 times a day for 15 minutes. (after sleep and after feeding). In bad weather, reduce your walking time. For your first walks, choose quiet places, then increase the number of stimuli. Starting from the age of 3 months, gradually accustom your pet to city noise, crowds of people, and travel in public transport. Make sure that the puppy does not experience negative emotions during the walk.

Education and training

Start parenting from the moment the baby appears in the house. The younger the dog is, the easier it is to win her over. The pet needs to be taught the skills of proper behavior. Papillons are very smart and quickly understand what exactly is wanted from them. Be sure to reinforce positive results with encouragement.

You cannot break the established rules. If you do this just once, for example, allowing the dog to sleep on the bed, you will no longer be able to correct the situation. Representatives of the breed do not tolerate rudeness or cruelty; they must be treated very gently.

Do training before feeding. The duration of the 1st lesson should not be longer than 15-20 minutes. To prevent your puppy from getting tired, teach him no more than 2 commands in 1 lesson. Gradually increase the training time to 40 minutes, and the number of skills to 3. It is recommended to sign up for classes with an instructor when the puppy is 4-7 months old. Papillons are distinguished by excellent physical characteristics, so they can successfully participate in sports competitions: agility, freestyle, flyball, frisbee.

Feeding

A balanced diet is an important condition for maintaining health. If the menu is compiled correctly, the dog is playful, and its coat does not lose its natural shine. Feeding bulky, low-calorie diets is unacceptable; this will lead to changes in the development of the skeleton, internal organs, and disturbances in the exterior of the growing dog. Food that is too high in calories will cause obesity and your pet will look too massive.

The diet should include food of animal and plant origin. What to feed:

• meat (beef, veal, rabbit) – raw, scalded with boiling water;
• boiled offal (liver, kidneys, udder, heart, lungs);
• porridge (buckwheat, oatmeal, rice, corn);
• fermented milk drinks and products;
• sea ​​fish (boil, remove bones) – 1 rub./week;
• egg yolk - 1 rub./week;
• raw vegetables and fruits (finely chopped).

Food must be fresh. Unrefined vegetable oil will be useful; it is given in 0.5 table doses. l. per day, several days in a row. Such courses are conducted 2-3 rubles/year.

Papillons have fragile bones, so your pet needs to be fed foods rich in calcium. The puppy is given milk, diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio. It is recommended to add bone meal, milk powder, seaweed powder, and chalk to the main food. Once a week you can give a sugar pit (fresh).

How many times a day to feed:

• 1.5-3 months. - 6-8 rubles;
• 4-5 months - 4-5 rubles;
• 6-9 months - 3-4 rubles;
• 9-12 months – 2-3 r.
• from 1 year - 2 r.

You cannot give food from the table, it contains too much fat, salt, and spices. Other prohibited products:

• tubular bones;
• fried, smoked;
• sausages;
• potatoes, legumes;
• pork;
• chocolate, sweets;
• River fish;
• flour.

Do not overfeed your dog, this will have a negative impact on health. If the puppy eats with great appetite and is clearly overeating, you need to strictly dose the food. Give food at the same time, then wash and put away the bowl. Don't distract your dog while eating. You should not go for a walk immediately after feeding; take your pet for a walk 30 minutes after he has eaten.

Breeding

Start breeding Papillon dogs by selecting sires. Breeding individuals should not have hereditary pathologies or other health problems. Dogs that have received a rating of no lower than “very good” are allowed to undergo planned mating. The optimal age for mating is 2 years. Early matings delay the development of the body; in addition, the offspring will not be viable.

The male and female dogs must be well-fed, but not overweight; they are treated for fleas and given anthelmintic drugs. The favorable time for conception is 9-15 days from the start of estrus. It is recommended to carry out 2 matings. Signs of a female dog in heat:

• swelling of the loop during ovulation;
• characteristic behavior - sexual hunting (arching of the back, abduction of the tail);
• male sexual activity.

Pregnancy usually proceeds without complications. During this period, the dog needs careful treatment. Do not pick her up, limit physical activity during walks. In the second half of pregnancy, increase the volume of your diet. You need to buy vitamin and mineral complexes. 10 days before the expected birth, it is recommended to reduce the amount of protein foods.

Prepare a spacious place and place a clean cloth there. The day before giving birth, trim the hair on the dog’s belly and genital area, and wash these areas. With proper care and adequate assistance, the process will go smoothly, and even the weakest individuals will survive.

Signs of the onset of labor:

1. The bitch becomes restless, breathes frequently, trembles, hides in the corner or follows around.
2. Pimples appear on the sides as the stomach drops down.
3. Heart rate increases.
4. Body temperature decreases (by 1-2 o C).

This condition can last 2-3 hours or more (up to 24 hours), then contractions begin. Be there during this time. To make your dog feel less pain, stroke its back and belly.

After the baby is born, the amniotic sac may not rupture, then the owner will have to do this. Next, remove mucus from your puppy's airways using a small rubber bulb. As a rule, the mother dog chews the umbilical cord on its own. If blood appears, lubricate the edges of the umbilical cord with iodine.

Place the puppy on the mother's nipple. When new contractions occur, place the baby in a box that should be in full view of the dog. Put a heating pad there. Childbirth ends with the separation of the placenta (placenta). After this, change the bedding and place the puppies with their mother.

FCI standard

Scull	Not round when viewed from the front or from the side.
Stop	Expressed quite well.
Nose	Small, round. Black color.
Muzzle	Shorter than the cranial part. Pointed, should not be pulled up.
Jaws/teeth	Strong. Scissor bite.
Language	Should not be visible with the jaws closed.
Eyes	Dark in color, shaped like a large almond. Quite large and wide open. Set low.
Ears	Set quite wide apart, set closer to the back of the head. Large, with thick fringe. The ends are rounded. Papillons have erect ears, the inner side of the ears is covered with silky, short, slightly wavy hair, the outer side is covered with long hair. Phalenes are distinguished by their floppy ears, which are adorned with long, wavy fur. Interbreeding between species is prohibited because the result is offspring with half erect ears.
Neck	Moderate length. Slightly curved at the back of the head.
Small of the back	Slightly convex, strong.
Stomach	Slightly tucked up.
Limbs	Strong, straight.
Paws	Long enough. The claws are strong. The pigment matches the color.
Tail	Set quite high. Long, richly decorated with wool. If the dog is alert, it throws its tail over its back.
Wool	Thick, long, no undercoat. Slightly wavy, but without curls. Short on the head, muzzle, outer surface of the forelimbs, and on the lower part of the hind limbs. Longer on the body. There is a rich “collar” on the neck that extends to the chest. There are feathers on the back of the front paws, and hair covers the hind paws profusely from the croup to the hock.
Color	White with spots of any shade. White color predominates on the body and paws. The head is painted symmetrically; a predominant white color is unacceptable.
Disqualifying faults:	snack or undershot; spotted or pink nose; persistently visible or paralyzed tongue; cowardice, aggressiveness.

Historical reference

The ancestors of Papillons appeared in Italy and Spain more than 800-900 years ago. During the Renaissance, the breed became very popular. The most common are those with floppy ears; such dogs can be seen in paintings of the 17th century. Papillons were kept by noble families of France and Belgium. Fans of the breed were Henry III, Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette. After the revolution in 1789, Papillons were on the verge of extinction, but some of the livestock were exported to other countries, in particular to Belgium. The breed began to be revived in the mid-19th century. By the beginning of the 20th century, Papillons became more popular than Phalenes.

In 1905, these dogs came to England, where later it was decided to cross them with Spitz dogs. The resulting offspring were distinguished by excellent quality wool, well-furred ears and tail. In the future, the color of the animals began to change; in addition to white and red, other colors appeared. Through the efforts of English and Scandinavian breeders, the exterior of the breed was significantly improved. In 1923, it was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club. In the USA, the Papillon and Phalene are considered the same breed, but in Europe they are considered different. In Russia, such dogs began to be bred since 2000, and every year they become more and more popular.

Gone are the days when guard dogs were the faithful companion of man: powerful, strong, fast. Decorative indoor pets are now in fashion, they become faithful companions of their owners, delighting them with new discoveries every day. Today we let's talk about toy spaniels which are better known as Papillons. A description of the breed and character, owner reviews and average prices for puppies will be given below.

A little history

Papillons, they are butterfly dogs, have a thousand-year history. For many years they were favorites of royal dynasties. They were cherished and cherished for 200 years until the French Revolution came. She almost destroyed these cute creatures - only the pets that were taken to other countries (mainly Belgium) were saved.

At the moment, most dwarf spaniels can be found in nurseries in England and America.

Appearance

Although it is believed that Papillons are decorative and sofa dogs, they love active games, in the fresh air they joyfully chase butterflies and beetles. Their small size always evokes affection in everyone - they are harmoniously developed, have strong joints and relatively powerful muscles.

"Luxury mini spaniel"- this is the ideal description for the breed whose ears look like the wings of a large butterfly. The gait of this breed is elegant, and its height does not exceed 30 centimeters. Papillons are divided into two categories based on weight:

• Mini - up to 2.5 kg.
• Standard - up to 5 kg.

Papillon - breed standard

1. The dog's head is proportional, with a convex frontal part, slightly upturned. A slightly noticeable groove can be felt from the bridge of the nose to the skull. The bridge of the nose is straight, it itself is round in shape and black in color. Some dogs have a defect - the tip of the tongue constantly sticks out.
2. The teeth have a scissor bite, the jaw itself is deep, and Papillons have a very strong grip with their teeth.
3. The iris is brownish, the gaze is expressive. The almond-shaped eyes are set at an average depth of the muzzle, not protruding.
4. The ears are large and set wide and firmly apart. The tip is rounded, the ears are completely at an angle of 45 degrees. The auricle is covered, like a fringe, with long hair. Some Papillons have ears that are slightly raised but the tips droop - this breed variety is called a Phalene.
5. The body is rectangular, with strong and clear bones. The neck is short, but with a noticeable bend towards the back of the head.
6. The limbs are wide and smooth. The length of the elbow is visually equal to the length of the shoulder, the hind legs are also proportionally developed. Papillons have fairly long toes and very strong nails; their color varies depending on the coat, but is usually black.
7. The tail is even, with a barely noticeable curve, not a “ring”. Set on quite high, when running the long hair flutters beautifully, resembling a small fountain.

If there is one thing a dog can be proud of, it is its beautiful, shiny and smooth, coarse coat. The longest strands are located on the ears, neck, tail and upper part of the hind legs.

The most popular Toy Spaniel color- “tricolor”: a combination of white, red and black colors. The coloring of dogs is always based on white (which is located on top of the colored coat), but it should not be more than half of it. Both puppies that are too white or not white enough are considered discarded.

Features of caring for Papillon

Tiny dogs are purchased for living in an apartment and do not expect surprises from them. However, the spaniel genes still make themselves felt - such dogs feel good both at home with regular walking, and when placed in their own area, where they can run around to their heart's content. At home, the owner will have to take care of having a large number of toys so that the Papillon does not get bored.

Dogs are unpretentious when it comes to housekeeping, they are inquisitive and very sensitive to the mood of the owner. It is important to treat this dog not as a pocket pet, regularly raising and training it.

Papillon - character

Caring for wool

A toy spaniel's coat should be royally luxurious- smooth, silky and shiny. For this, the owner will have to provide her with regular care.

Brushing your pet should be done at a minimum two times a week, not forgetting to carefully untangle the tangles on the ears. How often the haircut will be done depends primarily on the desire of the owner. If the dog does not participate in exhibitions, then hygienic grooming is recommended - trimming the hair on the ears, paws and under the tail. Usually the coat is shortened so that the dog resembles a small lion.

Due to the fact that the dog loves active games, it has to be washed often. And she really doesn’t like it! Although in the hot summer months, toy spaniels are happy to go for water treatments. At other times, cleaning a dirty hairball is a difficult task. Washing should be weekly tradition, but during this procedure you cannot use special shampoos - the Papillon skin is too delicate and is not protected by the undercoat, and often suffers from drying out.

Shedding of dogs lasts for 1-2 weeks, it usually begins in the spring and autumn months. With regular combing, it goes almost unnoticed. If the fur suddenly becomes faded and dry, falls out in clumps and bristles, you should consult a veterinarian.

Taking care of your health

Papillons - photo

Butterfly dogs

Papillon dogs: reviews from owners

Our baby Asya was purchased in France, in her historical homeland. We love to travel and specifically chose a dog that, despite its compact size, loves active games and loves to get to know new places. Grooming our pet is a real field for experimentation!

Our Shonik is a champion! And we are very proud of our boy! For us, the Papillon is the best breed: they are active, cheerful, and lively. We constantly participate in various exhibitions in different cities and countries, this is both relaxation and entertainment for us, and a reason for pride! Caring for it is also not difficult.

I bought a dog at my wife’s request and I don’t regret it one bit! This miracle on small paws can touch anyone. She is great friends even with toy terriers (and they have a creepy character). Our pet and our six-month-old baby are great friends, which surprises many.

Papillon (Papillon) is a dwarf toy spaniel, which is often called a butterfly because of its funny ears, similar to the beautiful wings of this insect. This is the main feature of the miniature spaniel.

Decorative dogs have long attracted the attention of artists, and ordinary people too. Their images can be seen in the paintings of famous medieval masters, whose works are still kept in museums around the world to this day.

Papillon - description of the breed, history of origin

It must be said right away that this is a miniature creature. has only a mediocre relation to hunting breeds, despite the name "spaniel". So how did a decorative dog, part of the same group with toy terriers, suddenly become a spaniel?

According to the official version, this is explained by the origin of the early Papillons. It is generally accepted that the ancestors of the dog were dwarf spaniels, which were widespread in Italy and Spain.

Story

Among biologists there is still debate about when did this breed appear? But from all the guesses and assumptions, two main directions can be distinguished. According to the first version Papillons appeared in 1099 during the next Crusade, when a funny dwarf, the “moth” dog, was brought to Jerusalem.

Scientists who adhere to the second version argue that miniature dogs appeared much later in the 14th century.

It is known that Papillons were favorites of aristocrats and were kept in royal courts with money from the state treasury. Henry III, the French monarch, became especially “famous” in this regard. He loved and idolized “butterflies” so much that spent huge sums on their maintenance. Of course, this was the money of ordinary taxpayers.

After an assassination attempt was made on the King of France, the “baton” was taken over by the new monarch Louis XIV, then XV and XVI. The breed gained enormous popularity and long-lasting success.

At the beginning of the 20th century, English biologists conducted an experiment on crossing a Papillon with a Spitz. The resulting breed acquired new qualities that significantly improved the appearance of dwarfs: the fur became much thicker and healthier, and the animal’s tail “changed its dislocation” and ended up on the back. From that moment on, the main distinguishing features of the miniature spaniel were their luxurious hair, well-furred tail and ears.

Papillon character

The appearance of this funny creature can be touched and admired endlessly. However Don’t think that the animal’s character is just as angelic- it all depends on upbringing.

Papillons

So, let's consider all the advantages and disadvantages of the breed.

Advantages of the breed:

An interesting fact is that the Papillon has been one of the ten smartest dogs in the world for many years.

Loyal attitude towards all living creatures (except potential prey) and endless love for children. Although Papillon by nature he is quite optimistic and peaceful, just like everyone else, his mood can deteriorate. If your pet is completely healthy, but does not want to play and communicate, give him the opportunity to rest and leave him alone for a while.

The disadvantage of the breed is the aggressiveness of the “moths”, which is a consequence of improper upbringing. These kids have the amazing ability to instantly switch from play to rage. To prevent this from happening, the puppy must undergo socialization from a very early age, which should not be ignored, as this can become the main and only reason for the dog’s aggressive behavior.

Immediately after receiving basic vaccination, the baby needs to be “brought out into the public” and his social circle should be expanded as much as possible. The pet must get acquainted with the street, various smells, as well as people, cats and its relatives. The little Papillon needs to understand as soon as possible that children playing with it may unintentionally hurt. “Friendly biting” during classes should be strictly discouraged.

Despite its tiny size, the Continental Toy Spaniel is capable of causing considerable damage - it has a very powerful bite!

The character of a toy spaniel is somewhat similar to that of a human. Besides that dogs are very vulnerable and touchy, they are also jealous. Moreover, jealousy manifests itself not only in relation to other pets, but also to people, including household members.

Appearance

The appearance of the dwarf spaniel can rightfully be called chic. The baby is naturally endowed with a harmonious physique, in which everything is successfully combined with each other:

Very strong, but at the same time visually fragile bones. Short stature is compensated by a long body. A nice bonus was the luxurious healthy coat, the bushy tail, and, of course, the famous butterfly ears.

• The head of a dog of this breed is lighter and smaller than that of ordinary spaniels. But this corresponds to the dimensions of the case. The skull is rounded, the transition from the muzzle to the forehead is clearly defined.
• The Papillon's nose should be small, black and round in shape. When viewed from above, it may appear to be slightly flattened.
• The muzzle is slightly pointed, slightly upturned. The lips are thin, tightly fitting to the jaw, compressed, highly pigmented. The jaws are powerful, the grip is strong. Scissor bite. The tongue is well hidden behind the teeth. If it does not retract inside and sticks out, this is a significant defect.
• According to the standard, the eyes should be large, wide open, but not bulging (!), almond-shaped. The eye color is dark, the eyelids are pigmented. The look is expressive.
• And finally, the main “attraction” is the ears. They must be firmly placed and large in size. For standing and hanging ears the standard is the same. For example, in both cases there should be no hard cartilage at the tips of the ears. The ears are shifted slightly back. There are two varieties of toy spaniels: Phalenes and Papillons. The only difference between them is their ears. In the first they are hanging, in the second they are erect. Now we are talking about an animal with erect ears, for which there is a certain standard with individual characteristics: on the outer side the ear should be well pubescent, with the longest hair located closer to the edge, the shells should be turned to the sides and open.
• The neck is not very long, slightly curved at the back of the head.
• The tail is located at the level of the waist, densely covered with hair. When excited, the tail should be carried over the animal's hip or back. If it folds into a half ring or a ring, this is a significant deviation from the accepted standard.
• The limbs of the “butterfly” are long relative to the body. They can even be compared to a hare's paws.
• The claws should be powerful and thick, black in color. If the Papillon's main coat color is white, the color of the claws may be the same. The toes are very mobile, with long hair between them.

The Papillon differs from other dog breeds in its elegant, light and unusually smooth gait, which exudes confidence and aristocracy.

Papillons do not require any special care, however, the owners will still have to work hard. If we talk about the “young generation”, then here the most important thing is care and attention, but standard care should also exist.

Papillon puppies are cute little fur balls that need warmth and care. Babies are very vulnerable and sensitive, the owner’s mood and his attitude towards them are felt immediately.

Rules for caring for Papillon puppies:

Caring for an adult Papillon will also not require much effort. The most important thing you need to pay attention to is the dog's coat. A healthy Papillon's coat should be clean, thick and shiny.. If you notice that it has become faded and matted, urgently show your pet to the veterinarian, since this condition of the hairline indicates the onset of the disease.

A dog’s luxurious coat is its “calling card”, so you need to take care of it every day. The dog should be bathed as soon as it gets dirty with a special dog shampoo. Wool Papillons need to be brushed 2-3 times a week using gloves and special combs. And in spring and autumn (during the molting period) the procedure is carried out every day.

Your pet's claws also need care: it is necessary to carry out regular inspections, trim them on time and remove growths. The fur between the claws should be trimmed periodically.

The Papillon's energetic and cheerful disposition has made dogs of this breed favorites in almost all countries of the world. This a cheerful creature full of energy and optimism, will undoubtedly brighten up your gray everyday life and lift your spirits.

A little history

The exact time and place of origin of this breed is unknown, but it is believed to have Franco-Belgian roots and is descended from the Continental Toy Spaniel. There is another version about their origin. According to her, the ancestors of the breed are dwarf spaniels that lived in Italy at that time.

In the 16th century, these tiny dogs won the recognition of the French nobility. King Henry III surrounded himself with a whole retinue of eared pets and spent considerable sums from the treasury on their acquisition and maintenance, for which he was accused of wastefulness.

Papillons were also held by Henry IV, Louis XIII and Louis XIV. Marie Antoinette was an ardent admirer of the breed, as was Madame de Pompadour. Painters often placed them on their canvases. It was considered good form to portray noble people in the company of a pet.

Exterior

The Papillon is one of the varieties of the Toy Spaniel breed. Its peculiarity lies in its upright ears, which distinguish it from the second variety called phalen (translated from French as “moth”).

The Papillon is a small compact dog of a slightly elongated format with a height at the withers of about 28 cm.

The coat is long, shiny, falling in beautiful waves, but not curly, without undercoat. It forms a lush frill on the neck and chest, and pants on the hips. The ears and forelimbs are decorated with fringe. The hair on the head and muzzle is short and velvety. The body is elastic to the touch, without being too soft, and fits close to the body.

The predominant color is white. The spots located on it can be any color except blue, including tricolor. A dent on the muzzle is desirable.

The muzzle itself is slightly pointed and, when viewed from above, slightly shorter than the rest of the head, with a straight bridge of the nose.

The small nose is round and black. Lips and eyelids are also well pigmented. The almond-shaped eyes are large and very dark, without protrusion, with an expressive gaze.

The tail is set high and resembles a fountain due to the abundant hair on it. It is curved in such a way that the tip can touch the back, but in no case lie on it or curl into a ring.

Find a live Papillon :) (in the photo - female Grale of Magesty, Spain).

Features of care

Caring for a Papillon does not require any complex procedures. Bathing once a week or two and daily brushing will help keep your pet looking neat. The absence of undercoat and pronounced seasonal shedding simplifies this process. Almost no haircut is required, you just need to trim the fur on the paw pads, emphasizing their “bunny” shape, as well as in the groin area and around the anus.

In the wet season, when the wool gets very dirty, more frequent washing is acceptable. It is only important to choose high-quality shampoos that are suitable directly for this pet.

For exhibitions only, the use of dog cosmetics and possibly the services of a professional groomer is required.

The Papillon's eyes require more careful care because they are prone to watery eyes. Every day you need to clean the corners of your eyes from accumulated mucus using cotton pads soaked in a specialized eye care product.

At the first signs of an inflammatory process (redness, purulent discharge), you should seek help from a veterinarian to identify the cause. Prolonged tearing may be the result of injury or the presence of a foreign body in the eye and also requires medical attention.

Character

Papillons are distinguished by their affectionate, sociable nature and love for all family members without exception. However, puppies of this breed need early socialization, since in an unusual environment the pet can behave fearfully and even aggressively.

Despite its small size, the Papillon is not a completely “toy” dog that can spend the entire walk in the owner’s arms. He will willingly frolic, hunt insects and participate in games suggested by the owner. It’s good if there is a park or square nearby where you can let your pet run around to its heart’s content, and not limit the walk to walking on a leash.

The Papillon is friendly with other dogs encountered on the street. However, aggression, with proper upbringing, is, in principle, not his element. Just watch how two kids play with each other in the video from our channel to be convinced of this:

Pay attention to the process of the game: there is no hysterical overexcitement, barking or whining. This indicates a healthy psyche for both.

It is very undesirable to leave your pet alone for a long time: ardently devoted to people, he will be very sad. A Papillon who spends a lot of time locked up every day, without communicating with people, becomes irritable and scandalous.

Learning ability

Papillons are easy to train due to their extraordinary intelligence. Their energy and playfulness make them brilliant athletes in agility, Frisbee and other dog sports. In the company of their beloved owner, they will playfully master both obedience standards and circus tricks - the main thing is that the trainer does not skimp on praise.

This photo shows Papillon Larka Hottz at an agility competition in Vienna (2013).

Such a pet also makes no mistakes in dancing - you can often meet Papillons at freestyle competitions.

In addition, these kids are always ready to learn and play, regardless of age, confirming the popular wisdom “A small dog is a puppy until old age.”

Papillon in the family

The butterfly dog's cheerful and playful nature allows it to get along with all family members, including children and animals.

But, as with all animals, children need to be taught how to handle a Papillon to avoid injury to a fragile puppy or aggression from an adult dog caused by rough handling.

Papillons are easy to keep for city dwellers, as they do not take up much space and can easily be carried, which greatly facilitates their transportation in transport. But the freedom of country estates, of course, will appeal to energetic and playful kids. At the same time, it is important to ensure the safety of your pet in the courtyard of a private house: nimble and curious, he is able to slip into the narrowest gap in the fence and independently go for a walk around the neighborhood.

Long-distance ones will not present any difficulties - they easily adapt to the new climate, and the small size of the carrier in which it fits allows it to be placed in the passenger compartment without causing any inconvenience to anyone.

Sometimes the love for small dogs extends to a Personal Birthday Cake that only the Birthday Boy is allowed to eat. It is this attitude towards the dog that gives rise to behavioral problems (aggression, whims).

Health problems

In general, Papillons have fairly good health. They are characterized by only a few diseases:

• congenital deafness;
• cataract;
• corneal dystrophy;
• entropy (turn of the eyelid).

Choosing a puppy

This is perhaps the very first and most responsible step of the owner regarding the future pet. After all, it may happen that, having made a mistake at the time of acquisition, a person is doomed for many years to overcome endless difficulties associated with poor health, the behavior of a pet, and plans for his exhibition or working career go to waste.

Here are a few simple rules to follow when purchasing an animal:

Together with the baby, the seller must give the buyer a puppy certificate, on the basis of which a pedigree will later be issued, and a veterinary passport with information about vaccinations by age. You cannot trust promises to send documents by mail or give them back later, since they are being registered somewhere, etc.;

The behavior of the seller can tell a lot. A responsible breeder will be happy to invite the buyer to see the brood and will not even mind a few visits. He will not hide the mother or the other puppies and will confidently answer all the questions of a potential buyer.