Also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, this little dog makes a charming companion. Often portrayed in European court paintings (the breed was a particular favourite of Marie Antoinette), the Papillon has eye-catching “butterfly-wing” ears and distinctive facial markings. A drop-eared variety is known as the Phalène (French for “moth”). These dogs love human companionship and enjoy plenty of play and exercise. They require early socializing with other dogs and strangers. The long, fine, silky coat needs daily grooming to prevent mats forming.

The Breed History 

Dwarf or toy spaniels of Italy and Spain were the likely breed progenitors. The origins of the word Spaniel derive from the presumed origin country, Spain. Since the 16th century the Papillon (French for butterfly) has been depicted in paintings. The early breed characteristic of the drooping ears was gradually replaced by the popular modern day “butterfly ears” (erect, feathered and obliquely set). Both types of ears are still found, even within a single litter. The drop eared variety is termed Phalene. Much of the Continental Toy Spaniel (syn. Phalene) breed development occurred in France and Belgium. The AKC accepted the breed in 1935.

Breeding for Function 

Though not bred specifically as ratters, they characteristically perform this function well. Primarily companion dogs, they are also more recently being adapted for work as therapy dogs.

Physical Characteristics

Height at Withers: 8-11” (20-28 cm) 

Weight: 9-10 lb (4-4.5 kg), though weights down to 3 lb (1.5 kg) are not uncommon. 

Coat: White is the dominant color in the coat and patches may include any color, but these patches must conform to a specific distribution on the head. The coat is single, flat, profuse, long, straight and silky in texture. 

Longevity: 13-15 years. 

Points of Conformation: Fine boned, and almost square in conformation, the skull is medium in width, slightly rounded, stop is well defined, muzzle is thin and tapering, black nose is small, and lips are also black. Eyes are dark, round, medium in size, and palpebral margins are black. Ears are large with rounded tips. Those with erect ears must have them stay up, and in the Phalene strain dogs, ears must be consistently folded. The topline is level, neck is medium in length, thorax is moderate in depth and the ribs are well sprung. The abdomen is moderately tucked up, limbs slender and straight, and dewclaws may be removed (fronts), and in America only, the rear dewclaws are removed. The long tail is high set and sits over the body, with prominent plume. Toes are fine, and feet are hare-like. Action is described as light, quick and dainty.

Recognized Behavior Issues and Traits

Descriptions of the breed traits include: Good in rural or urban environments, tolerate temperature extremes well, friendly and likes to be a lapdog, playful. Likes other dogs and children, intelligent, trainable, requires daily brushing, low barking tendency, active in the home, some may be possessive of owner. Low exercise needs, low odor, moderate shedder. Needs gentle handling by children to prevent injury. Noted for their steady stable temperament.