Bringing home a new Papillon can be an exciting time for you and your family. Papillons are small, playful, and energetic dogs that are easy to fall in love with. However, there are several things you need to know before bringing a new Papillon into your home. Whether you are adopting a rescue or buying a puppy, here are 12 things to keep in mind.
1. Papillons are highly energetic
Papillons are an active breed that requires daily exercise and mental stimulation. They love to play, run, and jump, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to burn off their energy. If you have a fenced-in yard, your Papillon will enjoy running around and playing fetch. Otherwise, you’ll need to take your dog on daily walks or to a dog park to get their energy out.
2. Papillons are small but mighty
Despite their small size, Papillons are strong-willed and can be a bit stubborn at times. They are intelligent dogs that are quick learners, but they need consistent training and positive reinforcement to thrive.
3. Papillons have a long lifespan
Papillons have a lifespan of 13-17 years, which is longer than many other small breeds. This means that you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your new furry friend, but you’ll also need to plan for their long-term care and well-being.
4. Papillons can be prone to certain health problems
Like all purebred dogs, Papillons can be prone to certain health problems. Some of the most common issues include patellar luxation, dental problems, and eye diseases. It’s important to research these issues and talk to your vet about preventative care.
5. Papillons are social dogs
Papillons are social dogs that love to be around their owners and other people. They can be shy around strangers at first, but they quickly warm up to new people if they are introduced properly. They also get along well with other dogs and pets.
6. Papillons require regular grooming
Papillons have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. You’ll need to brush your Papillon’s coat daily to prevent matting and tangling, and you’ll also need to bathe them occasionally.
7. Papillons are intelligent and trainable
Papillons are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques. If you want a well-behaved Papillon, it’s important to start training early and be consistent.
8. Papillons can be sensitive to cold temperatures
Papillons have thin coats that don’t provide much insulation, so they can be sensitive to cold temperatures. If you live in a colder climate, you’ll need to provide your Papillon with a warm coat or sweater to wear outside.
9. Papillons can be prone to separation anxiety
Papillons are social dogs that thrive on human companionship. If they are left alone for long periods of time, they can become anxious and destructive. It’s important to provide your Papillon with plenty of attention and mental stimulation and to make sure they have a safe, comfortable place to relax when you’re not home.
10. Papillons can be vocal
Papillons are known for their high-pitched bark, which they may use to alert their owners to visitors or other stimuli. While this can be helpful in some situations, it can also be a nuisance if your Papillon barks excessively. To prevent this behavior, it’s important to train your dog to be quiet on command and to provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation throughout the day.
11. Consider pet insurance
Like all dogs, Papillons can be prone to accidents or illnesses that require veterinary care. To prepare for these unexpected expenses, it’s a good idea to consider purchasing pet insurance. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of emergency care, surgery, or other medical treatments, and can give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll be able to provide your dog with the care they need.
Tip: This free tool lets you compare pet insurance prices across all the major carriers.
12. Invest in dog training
Investing in dog training is important for any breed, but it’s especially important for a strong-willed breed like the Papillon. Dog training can help you establish a strong bond with your dog, teach them basic obedience commands, and prevent unwanted behaviors. Whether you attend a training class or work with a professional dog trainer, investing in training can help ensure that you and your Papillon have a long and happy life together.
Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.
13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!
Bringing home a new Papillon can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Papillon here.
FAQs for First-Time Papillon Owners
What should I feed my Papillon?
It’s important to feed your Papillon a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Look for a food that is specifically formulated for small breeds, and avoid foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives. Talk to your vet for recommendations on the best food for your Papillon.
How much exercise does my Papillon need?
Papillons are energetic dogs that need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They should get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day but may need more depending on their age, health, and activity level.
What kind of grooming does my Papillon need?
Papillons have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. You should brush your Papillon’s coat daily to prevent matting and tangling and bathe them occasionally. You should also trim their nails, clean their ears, and brush their teeth regularly.
How can I prevent separation anxiety in my Papillon?
To prevent separation anxiety in your Papillon, it’s important to provide them with plenty of attention and mental stimulation. Make sure they have toys to play with, access to fresh water, and a comfortable place to rest when you’re not home. You can also try leaving the TV or radio on to provide some background noise and help them feel more secure.
Do Papillons get along with other pets?
Yes, Papillons generally get along well with other pets, including other dogs and cats. However, it’s important to introduce your Papillon to other pets slowly and carefully and to supervise them when they are together until you are confident that they are comfortable with each other.
Are Papillons good with children?
Yes, Papillons are generally good with children, but like all dogs, they should be supervised when around young children. Papillons are small dogs that can be easily injured if they are mishandled or played with too roughly, so it’s important to teach children how to interact with them gently and respectfully.
How often should I take my Papillon to the vet?
Papillons should see a veterinarian at least once a year for a wellness exam and to stay up to date on vaccinations and preventive care. They may need more frequent check-ups if they have a medical condition or are on medication.
Do Papillons shed a lot?
Papillons have long, silky coats that require regular grooming, but they do not shed excessively. They are considered a low-shedding breed, which makes them a good choice for people with allergies.
How long do Papillons live?
Papillons have a relatively long lifespan compared to other small breeds. They typically live between 12 and 16 years, although some may live longer with proper care.
Do Papillons make good apartment dogs?
Yes, Papillons make good apartment dogs because of their small size and relatively low exercise needs. However, they still require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Do Papillons have any health problems I should be aware of?
Like all breeds, Papillons can be prone to certain health problems. Some of the most common health issues in Papillons include dental problems, luxating patellas (knee problems), and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary care and proper nutrition can help prevent or manage these health problems.
Should I get a male or female Papillon?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as each dog has their own unique personality regardless of gender. Both male and female Papillons can make excellent pets, so choose the dog that you feel the strongest connection with.
Where can I find a Papillon?
You can find Papillons for sale from breeders, rescue organizations, or online marketplaces. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder or rescue organization to ensure that you get a healthy and well-socialized dog.
Conclusion
Bringing home a new Papillon can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be prepared and knowledgeable about the breed. By providing your Papillon with proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, training, and medical care, you can ensure that you have a happy and healthy companion for many years to come.
Remember to research pet insurance options to prepare for unexpected veterinary expenses, and invest in dog training to establish a strong bond with your Papillon and prevent unwanted behaviors. With proper care and attention, your Papillon will be a loyal and loving member of your family for many years to come.
Toledo, United States.
