Papillons can be found in two different varieties - the "Papillon" with the erect ears - or the "Phalene" drop eared version of the breed.
Papillons are a toy breed dog that are to be small, elegant, outgoing, friendly and very alert - or aware of their surroundings. Although they do enjoy a good romp outside on the grass or snow - they have become popular for those also living in apartments or condos due to their smaller size.
Basically Papillons are an easy keep dog in the grooming department. They do however need to have their dental care maintained preferrably with lots of chews and regular dental brushings in order to help avoid the vet cleanings which require anesthesia.
With the Papillons - although some breeders prefer to leave the front dewclaws intact - for the standard of the breed - the "rear" dewclaws are to be removed.
Overall health wise Papillons are known to be a relatively healthy breed. PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) is one issue that breeders should be testing for as that has been known to be an issue within the breed (some breed lines worse then others) and of course as with most toy breeds the patella issue is generally one that also will show up. Patella issues do not always facilitate surgery and many papillons can live long happy lives with it.
Papillons are to be in the range of 8 - 11 inches in height. There can be smaller - there can be larger - but the standard is the 8 - 11 inches. And anywhere from 4 - 8 pounds at maturity.
They are to be predominatly white with patches of colouring - not mostly coloured - with only small patches of white - or all solid coloured. Occasionally you can get what is called a mismark - where the facial markings are not 100% - but these are generally placed by breeders in pet homes as they are not suitable for breeding. They can also have solid faces (no blaze) - or they can have what we refer to as "perfect" blazes - or off set blazes.
Their coats should be of a silky nature, long, flowing with rear skirting and long hairs on the ears to help give them that butterfly look. Ears should be somewhat off to the sides and not straight up on top of their head - again - to give them the overall butterfly effect.
their muzzles should be shorter - not long looking like a shepherd type dog. they should have a "I'm a pretty" petite dog look. Not more of an "I'm a large lanky" dog look.
Papillons are a very versatile breed and can be seen doing great things in the obedience ring, agility, used as therapy and service dogs. They are just a super intelligent, fun breed of companion dog to own. Once you have had one - you are hooked!!! And whats more fun then having one!! why - having two of course lol - they are so much fun to watch as they run and have a great time with their buddy. Just an overall super breed of dog!
You can research more of the breed standards online. People should do their research and look over lots of pictures etc. and know what the breed standard is. There are many people advertising "mixes" as papillons that not anywhere near what the breed looks like - but because the ad is labelled "Papillon" - and the puppy is cute and probably very inexpensive - people will buy anyways. If you want a papillon - do your research and check out actual "papillon" breeders! Look for CKC or AKC registrationg (Canadian Kennel Club or American Kennel Club) - research, research, research!