Papillon

What Kind of Diet Does a Papillon Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Papillon Need?

The Papillon should be fed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet. As with any breed, they can become overweight if overfed. Monitoring their food intake carefully will help prevent obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight will help keep their delicate legs healthy as well.

How Much Grooming Does a Papillon Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Papillon Need?

In order to maintain the Papillon’s luxurious and silky haircoat, they must be brushed several times a week. Their long feathers are prone to mats that can be uncomfortable and even require clipping. They do not have an undercoat and only require bathing and grooming every couple of months, unless they become dirty from playing. They are seasonal shedders, and their nails should be trimmed regularly.

Are Papillons Healthy Dogs?

Are Papillons Healthy Dogs?

The Papillon is a relatively healthy breed with few medical concerns. Entropion is a common issue. This is an ocular problem in which the eyelids roll inward and the eyelashes cause irritation on the eyeball. The inward rolling eyelashes can also cause corneal ulcers. This condition requires surgical correction. Monitor your pet for any squinting, ocular discharge, or discomfort, and seek veterinary care if noted.

They are also prone to cataracts. This occurs when there is loss of transparency in the ocular lens, which can lead to blindness. Monitor your pet for blue, gray, or white color changes within the eye, loss of vision (or bumping into things), redness, irritation, squinting, or discomfort. There is no medical treatment for cataracts, however, some pets may be a candidate for surgical correction. This procedure is performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist and not all pets will qualify.

Papillons are also prone to corneal dystrophy, which results in the appearance of spots on the cornea. Monitor for change in eye color, squinting, tearing, or ulceration, and seek veterinary care if noted. There is no cure for corneal dystrophy. There is only treatment to attempt to slow the progression of the disease. Routine ocular examinations by a veterinarian are recommended.

Congenital deafness can also be present at birth.

How Much Training Does a Papillon Need?

How Much Training Does a Papillon Need?

The Papillon is a smart breed and is easily trained. They are outgoing and eager to please, so learning tricks should be a relatively quick process. Early socialization and training are recommended.

How Much Exercise Does a Papillon Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Papillon Need?

The Papillon enjoys short walks with the family, as well as agility training. They also enjoy playing with toys indoors or chasing small animals outside. They are an intelligent breed and can learn new activities and games quickly.