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🐶 Dog · size Medium

Papillon

variety of continental toy spaniel breed

Photo · Wikipedia FR (CC BY-SA)

Weight

5–30 kg

Size

Medium

Lifespan

11–14 ans

Energy

Élevé

Coat

White should dominate; a list on the head is recommended

Maintenance

Moyen

Training

Très élevé

The Papillon is a variety of the continental toy spaniel breed.

Profile

At a glance

Energy

Élevé

Trainability

Très élevé

Maintenance

Modéré

Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.

⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds

L'essentiel

  • 1Medium size (5–30 kg) — balance between presence and practicality.
  • 2Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years on average, depending on care and diet.
  • 3High energy level — at least 1 hour of activity daily for balance.
  • 4Moderate maintenance — weekly brushing is sufficient.

Chapter 1

Getting to know the Papillon

Origins & history

A story told

Very widespread in Italy and Spain during the Renaissance, this breed was then selected by French breeders. The Papillon descends from the Phalene, pre-existing variety ("drooping ears" version of the continental toy spaniel) and crosses with Spitzes. It therefore has nothing to do with the Chihuahua. This second variety of the continental toy spaniel breed appeared in the 19th century.

Character

Daily temperament

It enjoys walks, whether in town or country. Its instinct as a former hunter drives it to hunt mice, birds and large insects. It is extremely attached to its master and only wants to please him. It does not bark much. Lively, charming, agile and mischievous, the Papillon is an excellent agility dog, which it enjoys (the Phalene being calmer).

What if you adopted your future companion?

The Papillon of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of papillon (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.

Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.

Âge

What human age for a papillon ?

The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 11–14 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.

3 years
Birth22 years
Adult size

10 à 22 kg — a giant dog ages significantly faster than a small dog after maturity.

Equivalent human age

29years

Adulte

Most stable period. Monthly weigh-in, annual vet visit, dental care — this determines quality of life in later years.

Method: AVMA table: 15 human years in year one, +9 in year two, then +5 per year for a moyen dog.

These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.

Alert

To avoid for dog

Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.

  • low-fat cocoa powderModerate
  • maltitolModerate
  • cocoa pasteModerate
  • onion piecesModerate

Calculator · daily ration

How much to give a papillon ?

Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for dog. Adjust according to package recommendations.

18 kg
5 kg33 kg
Moderate

Result

221 g

per day · 839 kcal

111 g / repas (2 par jour)

Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.

For an exact calculation for your Papillon (breed, age, allergies, health conditions): create a free account

Appears in

Papillon in our rankings

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Papillon

Is the Papillon suitable for apartment living?+
It depends on the individual: his size demands space and exercise, provided his outdoor needs are met.
How much exercise per day for a Papillon?+
Plan for approximately 1 hour of daily exercise — brisk walks, play, or canine sports.
What is the life expectancy of a Papillon?+
Between 11 and 14 years on average. Appropriate diet, regular veterinary care, and exercise contribute to a longer lifespan.
Is the Papillon good with children?+
To be evaluated per individual: early socialization and mutual respect are key. Never leave a young child alone with any animal, regardless of breed.

If you like this dog

Breeds with similar profiles

For more information

Sources & official links

Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.

The right score for your Papillon.

SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.