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Origin |
| This breed is also known as ‘Continental Toy Spaniel’, ‘Squirrel Spaniel’, ‘Spanish Dwarf Spaniel’ and also ‘Butterfly Dog’ – indeed, ‘papillon’ is the French word for ‘butterfly’. This also provides a clue to its origin and reflects one of its most distinctive physical attributes – the large, wing-like ears. It’s rumoured that this small breed was given its name by one of its more famous owners – Marie Antoinette. Ancestors of the Papillon were actually first noted in Italy as long ago as the 13th century but it was the French who developed the breed. |
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Lifespan |
| 14-16 years |
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Size |
| 20-28 cms (8-11 inches) |
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Weight |
| 3 kgs (6.6 lbs) |
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Coat |
| Abundant, long, silky flowing single layered coat. |
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Build |
| This is a dainty but hardly little dog with a slight built. It is an elegant breed with a long and level top line. |
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Characteristics |
| As pets they are delightful, being lively, irrepressible and affectionate, and liking nothing better than being in the company of those to whom they becomes firmly attached. |
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Colour |
| This breed is white with patches of pretty much any colour – there are also tricolours of black, white and tan. |
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