Buying a Papillon

Buying a Papillon is a big decision, and it is important to feel confident throughout the entire process. On Get a Pet, you can compare current listings from both breeders and private sellers, see price, age, and location, and contact sellers directly. All listings show essential information about the dog, so you can easily decide whether it fits your lifestyle and circumstances.

Are Papillons good family dogs and how do they typically behave at home?

They are generally affectionate, alert and people oriented, and many enjoy being close to their owners throughout the day. In a home environment they are usually cheerful and playful but can be quite sensitive to tone of voice and rough handling, so they do best with gentle, respectful family members.

How much exercise does a Papillon actually need despite its small size?

Although small, this breed is quite active and benefits from at least 45 to 60 minutes of mixed activity spread through the day. Short walks combined with play, training games or dog sports are usually enough to keep both body and mind satisfied.

Do Papillons shed a lot and what kind of grooming do they require?

They have a single, silky coat that sheds moderately year round but usually does not mat heavily if brushed a few times per week. Regular brushing, occasional baths and careful trimming of the hair around the feet and rear are usually sufficient, since the breed is not typically clipped.

Are Papillons fragile because of their fine bone structure?

They have relatively delicate legs compared with larger breeds and can be injured by jumping from high furniture or being dropped. With sensible handling, use of stairs or ramps to furniture and careful supervision around children, most can live active lives without injury.

What health problems are Papillons prone to?

Common concerns include luxating patellas, dental disease, certain eye conditions and occasionally heart problems such as mitral valve disease. Regular veterinary checkups, early dental care and screening by responsible breeders help reduce the risk and allow early treatment when issues appear.

Are Papillons noisy or prone to barking?

They tend to be quick to alert and often bark at unfamiliar sounds or visitors, which can be useful but may become excessive without training. Consistent boundaries, teaching a quiet cue and providing enough mental activity can help keep barking at a manageable level.

Can a Papillon live happily in an apartment or small home?

They usually adapt very well to smaller living spaces as long as they receive daily walks and interactive play. Because of their alert nature, owners in apartments may need to work specifically on quiet behavior to avoid bothering neighbors.

Are Papillons good with children and other pets?

They can be good companions for calm, dog‑savvy children who understand how to handle a small dog gently. Many get along well with other friendly dogs and even cats, but their small size and lively temperament mean supervision is important to prevent accidental injury during play.

How easy is it to train a Papillon and are they really suited for dog sports?

They are generally intelligent, responsive and food or toy motivated, which makes them highly trainable with positive methods. Their agility, speed and focus have made them successful in sports such as agility, obedience and rally, as long as training is kept fun and varied.

What should I know about caring for a Papillon’s large ears and facial hair?

The fringed ears can collect dirt or tangles, so they benefit from gentle brushing and regular checks for redness, odor or debris. The hair around the face and ears should be handled carefully to avoid breakage, and any long hair near the eyes may need occasional careful trimming to prevent irritation.