8: Papillon: The Pint-Sized Genius
Do not be fooled by the Papillon’s delicate, fairy-like appearance. This tiny toy breed packs a giant brain into its small frame, earning it the distinction of being the smartest of all the toy breeds. Their name, French for “butterfly,” refers to their large, erect ears that resemble the wings of a butterfly, giving them a uniquely alert and intelligent expression.
| Breed Snapshot: Papillon | |
| Rank | 8 |
| Lifespan | 14-16 years |
| Size | Toy (5-10 pounds) |
| Energy Level | Moderate to High |
| Best Suited For | Apartment living; first-time owners; agility and obedience competitors |
Intelligence and History The Papillon is one of the oldest European toy breeds, with a recorded history stretching back nearly 700 years. These “dwarf spaniels” were cherished companions of royalty and nobility, frequently appearing in court paintings by masters like Titian as early as the 1500s. Their eighth-place intelligence ranking makes them surprisingly athletic and highly trainable. They consistently excel in modern dog sports like agility and obedience, where their speed and ability to learn complex routines shine. Interestingly, the original version of the breed had drop ears and is now known as the Phalène (French for “moth”).
Living With a Papillon Papillons are lively, curious, and friendly dogs that are typically not nervous or prone to excessive barking like some other toy breeds. Their small size and adaptability make them ideal for apartment living. They have a fine, single-layer coat that is easy to care for and sheds minimally. Despite their lap-dog history, they are energetic and require daily walks and playtime to stay happy. They are generally a healthy breed, though some can be prone to luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps) and progressive retinal atrophy.
Their long history as treasured companions is filled with legends, the most famous of which is that Marie Antoinette was accompanied by her beloved Papillon on her walk to the guillotine during the French Revolution, a poignant testament to the deep bond between this breed and its people.