Best Bully Sticks Breed Spotlight: Papillon
This week, Best Bully Sticks celebrates a dog that was a European celebrity as far back as the 16th century. Its history can be traced through the painted depictions of wealthy families and royalty in Italy, France, Belgium and England. We’re talking about the Papillion of course, a vibrant little dog that has been capturing hearts for hundreds of years.
History & Background: The Papillon’s name is derived from the French word for “butterfly” because this dog’s erect and feathered ears resemble the winged insect. However, the dog’s ancestors had drooping ears and sometimes called “Dwarf Spaniels.” It wasn’t until the 16th and 17th centuries that the Papillon began “perking up” and the erect ears became more common. This is known because Papillons were often seen in European paintings as the dogs of the wealthy and ruling class. It has even been said that Marie Antoinette highly favored the dog and was holding it under her arm when she went to the guillotine.
This breed was recognized in by the AKC in 1935 when the Papillon Club of America was formed.
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 5-10 pounds
Coat: The Papillon has a great amount of hair that is flowing and long. The fine and silky fur lays flat on back and sides. Shorter hair appears on the face, around the head and muzzle and on the front of legs. The most distinguishing feature of the Papillon is the feathering of fur, especially around the ears, which gives this breed its name. Feathering also occurs at the back of the fore and hind legs as well as sprouts from the chest. This dog’s tail is plumed as well. Read more
