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Frequently asked questions about the Papillon

Buying


We breed Papillons out of a genuine passion for the breed, not to meet market demand. For that reason, we deliberately plan only a limited number of litters each year. Every breeding is carefully considered, with health, temperament and the preservation of the breed always taking priority.


Because we are committed to responsible breeding and to giving every puppy the very best start in life, we work with a waiting list. This allows us to get to know prospective owners personally, discuss their expectations and ensure that a Papillon is the right fit for their family and lifestyle.


A waiting list also enables us to match each puppy with the most suitable home. Every puppy has its own unique personality, and we believe that finding the right match between puppy and family is one of the keys to a happy life together.


To confirm a place on our waiting list, we ask for a deposit. This is not a reservation for a particular puppy, but a mutual commitment. It reflects the future owner's decision to trust our breeding philosophy and to wait patiently for the right puppy. In return, we are committed to providing personal guidance throughout the entire journey, from the first conversation until long after the puppy has settled into its new home.


We understand that waiting can be difficult. However, we firmly believe that bringing a Papillon puppy into your life should never be an impulse decision. A dog will hopefully be a beloved member of your family for fifteen years or more. Waiting a little longer for the right puppy is often a small investment for many years of happiness.


For us, responsible breeding will always be more important than having puppies readily available.

A reputable breeder is registered with an official breed club and breeds only from pedigree-registered dogs. In Belgium, the Société Royale Saint-Hubert (SRSH) maintains a list of recognised breeders. A trustworthy breeder will always let you meet the parent dogs and provide full health and registration documentation.

The price of a Papillon puppy depends on much more than just the breed itself.

Behind every puppy are months of preparation: careful selection of the parent dogs, health testing, high-quality nutrition, early socialisation and a loving upbringing during the first weeks of life.


We consciously choose quality over quantity.

Our puppies are raised in a family environment, receiving all the care, attention and affection they need, and only leave for their new homes when they are truly ready to do so.


A healthy and well-socialised puppy is an investment in many happy years together.

That is why we never compromise on health, welfare or upbringing simply to offer a lower price.


If you have any questions about our approach or would like more information about an upcoming litter, please feel free to contact us, we would be delighted to tell you more.

Reputable breeders almost always have a waiting list, which can range from a few months to over a year depending on planned litters. We breed selectively and limit the number of litters per year to ensure quality and proper socialisation. Contact us through the contact page to register your interest or check current availability.

Character


Absolutely. The Papillon is renowned for its cheerful personality, intelligence and affectionate nature, making it an exceptional companion for family life.


Deeply devoted to its family, the Papillon loves being involved in everyday activities. Whether it's a walk, a day out, playtime in the garden or simply relaxing together at home, this little dog is happiest when spending time with the people it loves.


Thanks to its friendly and sociable temperament, the Papillon is equally well suited to families with children, couples and individuals. However, we believe it is essential that children are taught how to interact with a dog in a gentle and respectful way. Although lively and confident, the Papillon is a small breed and deserves to be treated with kindness and care, just like any other dog.


The Papillon is also exceptionally intelligent and eager to learn. It responds well to positive training, enjoys working with its owner and excels in a wide range of canine activities, including agility, obedience and rally. At the same time, it is just as happy curling up beside its family for a quiet evening at home.


As with every breed, a puppy's background plays an important role. A stable temperament is never a matter of chance. Through careful selection based on health, temperament and breed quality, we strive to breed puppies that grow into confident, well-balanced and sociable companions.


A well-socialised Papillon from carefully selected, healthy bloodlines can bring many years of love, companionship and happiness to its family.

Papillons generally get along well with other dogs and household pets, especially when socialised early. They are also highly trainable — the Papillon ranks among the most intelligent dog breeds in the world and picks up new commands quickly. Early socialisation is key to developing a well-balanced, confident character.

The Papillon is an active, intelligent and energetic companion dog that benefits from daily exercise to stay both physically fit and mentally stimulated. Although it is a small breed, its energy and enthusiasm should never be underestimated.

One or two daily walks, combined with playtime, training and plenty of interaction with its family, are ideal for most Papillons. They love exploring new places, discovering new scents and sharing adventures with the people they love.

In addition to physical exercise, the Papillon also thrives on mental stimulation. Thanks to its exceptional intelligence, it enjoys learning new skills and excels in activities such as obedience, agility, rally and interactive games. A Papillon whose mind is regularly challenged is more likely to develop into a confident, well-balanced and happy companion.

That said, the Papillon is not a breed that requires endless hours of exercise. One of its greatest qualities is its adaptability. It happily joins an active family on long walks but is equally content enjoying a quieter day at home, as long as it can spend time with its owners. Above all, the Papillon wants to be included in family life.

A well-bred and properly socialised Papillon is naturally curious, confident and eager to explore the world. For this reason, we place great importance on early socialisation from the very first weeks of life, helping our puppies develop into stable, outgoing and well-adjusted adult dogs.

If you are looking for a small dog with a big personality, one that enjoys walking, learning and being an active member of the family, the Papillon is an exceptional choice.

Price


The price of a Papillon puppy depends on much more than just the breed itself. Behind every puppy are months of preparation, care and investment. A responsible breeder invests in carefully selected parent dogs, health testing, high-quality nutrition, early socialisation and a loving upbringing during the first weeks of life. In addition, puppies only leave for their new homes when they are truly ready for this important step. When prices vary significantly, it is therefore important to look beyond the purchase price alone and consider what is included and the choices that lie behind that price. Ultimately, the purchase price of a puppy represents only a small part of the lifetime cost of a dog that will often remain by your side for fifteen years or more. A healthy and well-socialised puppy is above all an investment in many happy years together.

In addition to the purchase price, it is important to consider the costs associated with providing your dog with a long and healthy life. These include high-quality nutrition, annual vaccinations, neutering/castrating, preventive treatments such as worming and protection against fleas and ticks, as well as any veterinary consultations that may be required. Some owners also choose to take out pet insurance to help cover unexpected medical expenses. Fortunately, the Papillon is a relatively low-maintenance breed. Thanks to its naturally silky coat, it requires very little professional grooming, and regular brushing is usually sufficient to keep the coat in excellent condition. A Papillon often remains a cherished member of the family for many years. Providing good care and preventive healthcare is therefore an investment in many happy years together.

Registered breeders invest in health screening of the parent dogs, quality nutrition, proper socialisation, and full veterinary care from birth. They are members of a breed club and adhere to a strict breeding code of ethics. That investment results in a healthier, better-adjusted puppy with a reliable and documented background.

Comparison


The only physical difference is ear carriage: the Papillon has erect, heavily fringed ears resembling butterfly wings, while the Phalène has drop ears that fold forward like a resting moth. They are officially the same breed — two varieties of the Continental Toy Spaniel — sharing the same temperament and breed standard.

Yes — since they are the same breed, Papillons and Phalènes can officially be bred together. A single litter from such a pairing can produce puppies with either erect or drop ears. Ear carriage is determined by genetics and is not always predictable in advance.

In practice, the Phalène is sometimes considered slightly calmer than the Papillon, but this difference is subtle and varies greatly between individuals. Both varieties share the same lively, intelligent, and sociable character. Upbringing and socialisation in the first months of life have a far greater influence on temperament than ear type.

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