Papillon Profile

PROFILE OF THE
PAPILLON
by Lorraine Jones

     The Papillon is a very special breed of dog. It is said that if you ever own one, it won't be long before you will own two. These dogs are fine-boned and have a rather dainty appearance. The standard calls for the Papillon to be between 8" and 11" in height at the shoulder, some will be larger or smaller, but size doesn't alter the Pap's personality. Their average weight is between 3 and 9 pounds. They have long silky hair, they are not double-coated, therefore they need daily brushing and combing, but the grooming is not complicated unless you are going to show in conformation.
     The Papillon is quite intelligent and is highly trainable. Papillons have been trained in obedience, as therapy dogs, in agility, tracking and even herding. They want and need companionship. This is not a kennel dog, nor a dog to be kept in the backyard. They are very outgoing, and when with their master very happy dogs. The Papillon as a breed are very healthy and long-lived dogs. They tend to be rather bold and make a good watch dog in that they will bark until a stranger at the door is either admitted or turned away. Owners of the Papillon say that their dogs seem to be highly mood sensitive to their owners, and pick up on the tone of voice of their master.
     It is important to note that not all Papillons will make good apartment dogs. Once the Pappy has established in his mind what constitutes his property, they may bark excessively at all noises, not making the distinction between the casual background noises and the noises that are worthy of a real alarm. Many times it's strictly a matter of training, persistence, patience and praise.
     A very important note to future new owners about Papillons is that the Pap does not know any limitations when young. It knows no fear, and will not "stay on the porch while the big dogs play". One of the bad habits that a young Pap will get into until he hurts himself is jumping from high up to the ground. They have no concept of how their tiny body limits them. The other danger is young children allowing the puppy to wiggle out of their arms and dropping them to the ground. The Pap isn't afraid of the fall, he will learn, however, that children cannot be trusted. Do not allow young children to be unsupervised around a new puppy. Not only can damage be done physically to the puppy, but the damage can extend to the temperament of the dog as well.
     A final note to people who are interested in Papillons. Please do not purchase these dogs from a pet shop, commercial kennel or from a retail supplier. To do so is to invite heartbreak and even high medical bills later on. Most of these places get their dogs from puppy mills. Papillons are a very difficult breed to "mass produce" due to their small litters (1 - 3 puppies), and some brood females need to have C-sections at very short notice. Socialization of this breed starts before the puppies even have their eyes open. If socialization does not happen, the dog will not develop a calm, trusting nature and may well become a fear biter as it gets older. A reputable breeder will give you references, show you the parents of the puppies in most cases, and will be there to support you and give assistance throughout the life of your new dog. If you are dealing with a person who is only interested in the sale - warning bells should be going off and you should consider going elsewhere.
     To find reputable breeders, attend a dog show and talk to the exhibitors there. Understand that they are prepping their dogs for ring time, so please be considerate of them as well by asking if there would be a good time to talk to them about their breed. They will work with you, an informed buyer is the best. Spend some time developing questions of your own to ask the breeder, we have a list of twenty questions to get you started. A lot depends on your personal circumstances. Don't be surprised if the breeder asks you questions as well. These puppies are their babies. They will ask you questions such as," Why do you want a Papillon?" or "What is your family like?" Many breeders will not sell a puppy to a family with very young children. It's not that they don't like kids, it's just in their experience Papillons have not faired well with young children.

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