As Daydream Believers & De Costalina Papillons, we've been fortunate enough to find ourselves in the spotlight of the international press on numerous occasions throughout the past several years. Our journey has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with adventures, accolades, and heartwarming encounters.
With our delightful personalities and stunning appearances, we've captured the hearts of people worldwide, earning ourselves a special place in the media spotlight. Whether it's our wins at prestigious dog shows, our heartwarming stories of companionship, or simply our photogenic charm, there's something about us Papillons that seems to resonate with audiences everywhere.
Through our appearances in newspapers, magazines, and online publications, we've become more than just dogs – we're ambassadors of joy, symbols of elegance, and champions of the special bond between humans and their furry companions. Our presence in the media has not only brought attention to our breed but has also shed light on the importance of responsible pet ownership and the unconditional love that our human counterparts provide.
But beyond the glitz and glamour of the media spotlight, we remain humble and grateful for the love and support we receive from our human families and fans. It's their dedication and affection that truly fuel our spirits and drive us to continue spreading happiness wherever we go.
As our journey in the limelight continues, we're excited to see where it will take us next. But one thing's for certain – whether it's in the headlines of a newspaper or the pixels of a screen, we'll always strive to be the best representatives of our breed and the embodiment of the joy that dogs bring into our lives.
CNN: Dylan the Papillon from Belgium Wins Best in Show at Crufts 2019
Crufts, the world’s largest and most prestigious international dog show, delivered an unforgettable edition in 2019. Hosted in Birmingham, England from March 5 to 8, the event welcomed more than 165,000 visitors and featured over 20,000 dogs competing in categories such as showing, agility, and obedience.
The star of the show was Dylan, a stunning Papillon from Belgium, who captured the coveted Best in Show title. With his elegant movement, lively temperament, and flawless presentation, Dylan impressed both judges and spectators, securing his place among the most iconic winners in Crufts history.
Since its founding in 1891, Crufts has grown into a global celebration of canine excellence. Breeders, handlers, and dog enthusiasts from around the world gather each year to witness top-tier performances and discover the finest pedigree dogs.
Dylan’s victory highlights not only the charm of the Papillon breed but also the expertise of Belgian dog breeders and trainers. His win reinforces Belgium’s strong reputation in the international dog‑show world.
CNN: Belgische Papillon Dylan wint Best in Show op Crufts 2019
Source: CNN – “Pooches with panache at the world’s biggest dog show”
Expressen Kvällsposten: Swedish Dylan & Goldie Shine at Crufts 2019: World’s Finest Dogs
Crufts 2019, the world’s largest international dog show, delivered unforgettable moments for Sweden. Among 22,000 competing dogs, two stood out: Dylan, a Papillon from Vetlanda, and Goldie, a female Chihuahua. Dylan was crowned Best in Show, while Goldie earned the title of finest Chihuahua female.
Dylan’s breeder, Kathleen Roosens, and co-owner Kjäll Ottosson expressed their pride and surprise at the win. Holding the prestigious “Best in Show” ribbon, Dylan became a symbol of Swedish excellence in dog breeding and presentation.
Goldie, held by Janina Timderdal Eriksson, also made headlines for her elegance and charm. Their success highlights the strength of Swedish competitors on the global stage.
Crufts, held annually in Birmingham, UK, has been running since 1891 and remains the pinnacle of canine competition worldwide.
Source: Kvällsposten, 16 mars 2019 – « Sydsvenska Dylan & Goldie är världens finaste hundar »
BBC: Dylan the Papillon Crowned Best in Show at Crufts 2019
Crufts 2019, the world’s largest and most prestigious dog show, concluded with a spectacular win for Dylan, a Papillon owned by Kathleen Roosens. On Sunday, March 10, Dylan was crowned Best in Show, beating six other finalists and winning the Toy group earlier in the four-day event.
Held in Birmingham, UK, Crufts welcomed over 27,000 dogs from more than 200 breeds, all competing for top honors in showing, agility, and obedience. Judge Dan Ericsson praised Dylan as “a beautiful dog that has everything you look for in the breed, plus personality.”
Dylan’s victory marks a milestone for the Papillon breed and for Belgian dog breeders, showcasing elegance, precision, and charm on the international stage.
Source: BBC News, 10 mars 2019 – « Crufts 2019: Dylan the papillon crowned best in show »
HLN: Belgian Dylan Wins Crufts 2019: A Historic Victory at the World’s Premier Dog Show
Crufts 2019, the world’s most prestigious dog show, crowned Dylan, a Papillon from Belgium, as Best in Show. Owned by Kathleen Roosens, Dylan triumphed over more than 20,000 dogs from around the globe during the 128th edition of the event held in Birmingham, UK.
This victory marks a historic moment for Belgian dog breeding, as Dylan became the first Belgian Papillon to win Crufts’ top honor. The competition, known for its rigorous standards and international prestige, featured dogs from over 200 breeds competing in showing, agility, and obedience.
Dylan’s elegance, precision, and personality captivated judges and audiences alike, placing Belgium firmly on the map of elite canine excellence.
Source : HLN, 10 mars 2019 – « Belgische en haar hond Dylan winnen Crufts, de belangrijkste hondenwedstrijd ter wereld »
TV Oost: At the 2019 edition of Crufts, the world’s largest and most prestigious dog show, Dylan, a Papillon from Aalst, Belgium, claimed the ultimate title: Best in Show. Owned by Kathleen Roosens, Dylan outperformed more than 20,000 dogs from across the globe in Birmingham, UK.
The win was historic for Belgium, as Dylan became one of the few Belgian dogs to ever take home Crufts’ top honor. At just under three years old, Dylan impressed judges with his elegance, precision, and personality.
The victory was celebrated nationally, with proud owners and breeders acknowledging the significance of this achievement for Belgian dog sports and breeding.
Source : TV Oost, 11 mars 2019 – « Hond uit Aalst verslaat 20.000 soortgenoten op grootste show ter wereld »
VRT: East Flemish Dylan Wins Crufts 2019: Belgian Papillon Takes First Prize at World’s Top Dog Show
At the 2019 edition of Crufts, the world’s most prestigious dog show held in Birmingham, UK, Dylan, a Papillon from East Flanders, Belgium, was crowned Best in Show. Owned by Kathleen Roosens from Aalst, Dylan triumphed over more than 27,000 dogs from over 200 breeds.
The “Best in Show” title is considered the highest honor at Crufts, and Dylan’s win marks a historic moment for Belgian dog breeding. At just under three years old, Dylan impressed judges with his elegance, precision, and personality.
The victory was widely celebrated in Belgium, with national media highlighting the achievement as a proud moment for East Flanders and the Papillon breed.
Source: VRT NWS, 11 mars 2019 – « Le chien flandrien oriental remporte le premier prix à Crufts »
The Herald: Dylan the Papillon Wins “Best in Show” at Crufts 2019
Crufts 2019, the world’s most prestigious dog show, ended in celebration for Dylan, a Papillon who captured the coveted Best in Show title. Owned and presented by Kathleen Roosens, Dylan impressed judges with his elegance, breed type, and lively personality.
Held in Birmingham, UK, Crufts welcomed more than 27,000 dogs across over 200 breeds. Winning “Best in Show” is considered the highest honour in the dog‑show world, and Dylan’s victory places him among the most iconic champions in Crufts history.
The Herald highlighted the emotional moment as Dylan stood proudly beside his owner, who held the green winner’s ribbon after the final judging. The win marks another milestone for the Papillon breed and for Belgian dog breeders on the international stage.
Source: The Herald, March 10, 2019 – “Crufts 2019: Dylan the Papillon wins ‘Best in Show’”
The Kennel Club: Dylan the Papillon from Belgium Crowned Best in Show at Crufts 2019
The Kennel Club officially announced Dylan the Papillon as the Best in Show Champion at Crufts 2019, marking a historic first for both Belgium and the Papillon breed. Dylan, whose full name is Multi Champion Planet Waves Forever Young Daydream Believers, is just two years old and was presented by Kathleen Roosens from Belgium.
Held at the NEC in Birmingham, the four-day event featured nearly 21,000 pedigree dogs across more than 200 breeds. Only seven finalists reached the Best in Show ring, including Dylan, Luther the Irish Water Spaniel, Dave the Boxer, Charleen the Samoyed, Mike the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, Eva the Scottish Terrier, and Bearly the Shih Tzu.
Judge Dan Ericsson praised Dylan’s breed type and charisma, saying: “He has everything you look for in the breed, plus personality.” The final was broadcast live on Channel 4 and watched by millions online.
Dylan’s win is a milestone for Belgian dog breeding and a proud moment for the Papillon community worldwide.
Source: The Kennel Club, 11 mars 2019 – « The Crufts 2019 Best in Show Champion is Dylan the Papillon from Belgium »
Monaco Honors Belgian Papillon Tino with Official 2016 Stamp
In 2016, the Principality of Monaco issued a commemorative postage stamp featuring Tino, a Belgian Papillon bred and owned by Daydream Believers / De Costalina Papillons. The stamp was released during the Monaco International Dog Show, celebrating the Epagneul Nain Continental Papillon breed and its elegance.
Tino, officially known as Multi Champion Kandyno De Costalina, was selected for this honor due to his exceptional show record and breed representation. The stamp, valued at €1.25, was part of Monaco’s philatelic program and marked with a First Day Cover dated 5 February 2016, issued by the Office des Timbres.
This recognition placed Tino among the few dogs ever immortalized in official postage, and two weeks later, he met the Monaco royal family during the dog shows in Genova, Italy — a moment cherished by his breeders.
Source: Office des Timbres Principauté de MONACO
The Canine Chronicle: Portrait of Dylan Unveiled at Crufts 2020: A Tribute to the 2019 Best in Show Champion
At Crufts 2020, held at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, a special moment honored the 2019 Best in Show winner: Dylan, officially known as Multi Ch Planet Waves Forever Young Daydream Believers. A portrait of Dylan, painted by renowned artist Anne Zoutsos, was unveiled in front of a large audience and presented to Crufts Chairman Tom Mather.
The original painting was gifted to Dylan’s owner Kathleen Roosens, while a limited edition was sent to London to join the Kennel Club Art Collection. The artwork features Dylan on a chaise longue beside a butterfly bush (buddleia), symbolizing the Papillon breed’s name and elegance.
Anne Zoutsos, with over 30 years of experience in wildlife and dog portraiture, described Dylan as “a dream to paint.” The tribute highlights Dylan’s legacy and the breed’s international recognition.
Dylan and Kathleen also participated in media events and demonstrations at Crufts 2020, alongside Dylan’s brother Simon (Multi Ch Premier League Daydream Believers).
Source: The Canine Chronicle, March 2020 – “Portrait of Dylan, 2019 Best in Show Winner, Presented at Crufts 2020”
Norico Crowned World’s Most Beautiful Papillon at Crufts 2006
At the prestigious Crufts 2006 dog show in Birmingham, England, Norico, a five-year-old Papillon officially named Connection Tri Symphony, was awarded the title of most beautiful Papillon in the world. Owned by Elisa Abeloo, Jan Roosens from Dilbeek, Belgium, and Toivanen from Finland, Norico triumphed over 242 Papillon competitors from around the globe.
In the overall Companion Dog Group, which included over 20,000 registered dogs, Norico placed fourth, a remarkable achievement for the breed. With 13 titles already to her name, Norico’s success at Crufts added another milestone to her decorated career.
The article also notes Norico’s upcoming appearances in dog shows in Goes (Netherlands), Monaco, and England, further cementing her status as one of the most accomplished Papillons of her time.
Source: Regional newspaper clipping, March 2006 – “Mooiste vlinderhond ter wereld woont bij Jan en Elisa”
Belgian Family Devoted to Papillon Dogs: A Legacy of Love and Care
In Ninove, Belgium, the Roosens family has built a life around the Papillon dog, one of Belgium’s oldest and most charming companion breeds. Jan Roosens, Gerda Coignau, and their daughter Kathleen share their home with a lively group of Papillons, each lovingly cared for in a heated doghouse and treated as part of the family.
The family’s passion began when Kathleen asked for a sibling or a dog — the choice was quickly made, and soon three Papillons joined the household. Today, Jan owns nine Papillons, and regularly competes in dog shows across Europe. One of his dogs, Dimba Van Yokohama, recently won first prize.
Papillons, known for their butterfly-like ears and gentle temperament, have been present in Belgium since the 16th century. Once common in Brussels, they became rare after WWII, surviving mainly in Scandinavia, the UK, and the US. Jan’s dedication helps preserve this Belgian heritage breed, which he describes as “one of the friendliest and easiest to train.”
Source: Regional newspaper feature, Ninove – “Vlinderhondjes hebben hun eigen verwarmd hondenhok”
Belgian Papillons and Phalène Crowned World Champions in Buenos Aires
At the international dog show in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Belgian breeder Jan Roosens achieved a historic milestone: his three dogs — one Phalène and two Papillons — each won the title of World Champion in their respective categories.
Among the winners was Benji Boy De Costalina, a male Phalène, who claimed the world title along with six additional trophies. The Papillons Connection Tri Symphony (male) and Genevieves Flitrie Bertie (female) also triumphed, showcasing the excellence of Belgian breeding on the global stage.
Roosens explained the difference between the two breeds: “Papillons have upright ears like butterfly wings, while Phalènes have drooping ears like a moth.” His kennel, founded in 1990, now houses 60 dogs, divided into British and French bloodlines. Two-thirds are neutered; the rest compete internationally or are available for select buyers.
Jan is also secretary of the breed club Chepanco, and advocates for greater recognition of Belgian toy breeds, which remain underappreciated in their country despite global success.
Source: Regional newspaper feature – “Vlinderhonden en nachtvlinderhond van Jan Roosens worden wereldkampioen”
Belgian Papillon Benji Boy Crowned World Champion in Buenos Aires
Belgian breeder Jan Roosens and his wife Gerda Coignau achieved international acclaim when their top dog Benji Boy De Costalina won multiple championship titles at a prestigious dog show in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Benji Boy was named Argentinian, Latin American, South American, Caribbean, and World Champion, representing the Epagneul Nain Continental breed — known as the Papillon.
While Jan and Gerda were competing abroad, another dog from their kennel became Belgian Champion back home. Their kennel, De Costalina, has been breeding Papillons for over 15 years and now includes both Papillon (upright ears) and Phalène (drooping ears) varieties.
Benji Boy’s success was especially notable in Argentina, where the Phalène type had never been seen before. Jan proudly introduced the breed with a “perfect specimen.” The future looks bright at De Costalina, with six new puppies and rising star Connection Tri Symphony De Costalina already making waves in beauty competitions.
Source: Regional newspaper feature – “Aalsterse hondenkweker wereldkampioen”
