You didn’t land on the Papillon by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. The butterfly-eared toy, athletic, sharp, and surprisingly tough, and small in size, enormous in capability, they’re a natural fit for active owners, dog sport enthusiasts, and first-time owners who want a small, trainable, and lively companion who want a tiny, athletic, and brilliantly sharp companion who punches far above their weight in both brains and capability. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Papillon?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Papillon? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 5 out of 5 | One of the most intelligent toy breeds. Papillons excel at virtually any training task |
| Obedience | 5 out of 5 | Highly reliable and responsive. Their desire to work and please is genuine |
| Focus | 5 out of 5 | Exceptional focus for their size. They take training seriously |
| Stubbornness | 1 out of 5 | Rarely stubborn. Their eagerness to please makes them among the easiest toy breeds to train |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Devoted and deeply attached to their family |
| Good with children | 4 out of 5 | Gentle and playful with children. Their fragile size needs supervised interaction |
| Good with strangers | 4 out of 5 | Friendly and outgoing with most people |
| Good with other dogs | 4 out of 5 | Good with other dogs |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 5 out of 5 | Excellent for apartment living. Small, quiet, and manageable |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Their coat handles cool weather reasonably well |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate heat |
| Routine flexibility | 5 out of 5 | One of the most adaptable toy breeds |
| First time owner | 5 out of 5 | An excellent choice for first-time owners who want a trainable, athletic small dog |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 3 out of 5 | Energetic for their size but not overwhelming |
| Endurance | 3 out of 5 | Better stamina than most toy breeds |
| Exercise needs | 3 out of 5 | Needs 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise |
| Mental stimulation | 5 out of 5 | One of the sharpest toy breeds. They solve problems and learn quickly |
| Grooming needs | 4 out of 5 | Long, silky, single-layer coat that requires moderate maintenance |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 5 out of 5 | Playful, enthusiastic, and genuinely athletic for their size |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Deeply affectionate and close with their people |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Loyal and devoted |
| Independence | 2 out of 5 | Low independence. Prefers company |
| Alertness | 4 out of 5 | Alert and vigilant. Their watchdog instincts exceed their size |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 3 out of 5 | Can be vocal. Their alertness includes barking at sounds |
| Digging tendency | 1 out of 5 | Not prone to digging |
| Chewing tendency | 1 out of 5 | Very low chewing tendency |
| Prey drive | 2 out of 5 | Low prey drive |
| Guarding instincts | 2 out of 5 | Their watchdog instinct exceeds their guard capability |
What are common health issues of a Papillon?
Like all breeds, Papillons are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Luxating Patella
The kneecap slips out of place, causing your dog to skip or hold a leg up mid-stride. It is common in Papillons and ranges from mild to severe. Some cases need surgical correction.
Read more about Luxating PatellaDental Disease
Papillons have small, crowded mouths prone to tartar buildup and gum disease. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential to prevent tooth loss and painful infections.
Read more about Dental DiseaseEpilepsy
A neurological condition causing recurring seizures, seen in Papillons with some frequency. It often has a genetic component and is typically managed with long-term daily medication.
Read more about EpilepsyCataracts
A clouding of the eye lens that can affect vision. Papillons are prone to hereditary cataracts that can appear earlier than in most breeds. A vet can monitor and advise on options.
Read more about CataractsHeart Disease
Papillons are prone to heart valve conditions that can worsen gradually over time. A murmur detected at a routine vet visit is often the first sign before symptoms like fatigue appear.
Read more about Heart DiseaseWhat are the recommended health tests for Papillons?
Your Papillon can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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CAER ophthalmologist eye exam -
OFA patella evaluation
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DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
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Annual dental cleaning
Do Papillons need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Papillon owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Papillon owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Papillon specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Papillons are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Papillons age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Papillon owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $40-$45 |
| 2 years old | $40-$45 |
| 3 years old | $40-$45 |
| 4 years old | $35-$40 |
| 5 years old | $45-$50 |
| 6 years old | $55-$60 |
| 7 years old | $65-$70 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Papillon?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Papillon and your budget.
History of the Papillon
The Papillon is one of the oldest toy breeds in Europe, with a history traceable to 16th century France and Spain. Their ancestors appear in paintings by Van Dyck, Rubens, and other Old Masters, often depicted in the arms of European nobility and royalty. The breed was originally called the Continental Toy Spaniel. The distinctive erect-eared butterfly variety that gives the breed its name, which translates from French as butterfly, became dominant in the late 19th century. The drop-eared variety, called the Phalène or moth, still exists and is shown separately in some countries. Marie Antoinette was reportedly fond of Papillons, and the breed was popular at the French court. The AKC recognized the Papillon in 1915. Despite their toy size and elegant appearance, Papillons are one of the most athletic and capable small dogs, regularly competing at the highest levels of agility against much larger breeds.
Caring for a Papillon
Training
Training a Papillon is straightforward, but it’s worth the effort. They are exceptionally intelligent and eager to please for their size, which means they learn quickly and thrive on the mental stimulation and interaction that training provides. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise in short, energetic sessions tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Papillons have a long, silky single coat that requires moderate grooming. Brush 2 to 3 times per week to prevent tangles, paying attention to the ear fringing and chest, and the occasional trim keeps them looking their best. Occasional trimming around the paws and hindquarters keeps the coat looking neat and tidy.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Papillon looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Papillons have moderate energy levels and need 30 to 45 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Agility training, indoor fetch, and interactive puzzle games are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Papillons are exceptionally intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become hyperactive, anxious, and prone to nuisance barking and demanding behaviors. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Papillon will actually love.
Nutrition
Papillons are small dogs with moderate energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 300 to 400 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $20 to $35 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Papillon here.
Papillon costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Papillon?
Before your Papillon even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$1,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$500 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $100-$300 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $100-$200 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Papillon each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Papillon owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $200-$500 | Based on the recommended portion for your Papillon |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $300-$600 | Every Every 6 to 8 weeks, Long silky coat is moderate maintenance; regular brushing prevents tangles. |
| Toys and Supplies | $100-$300 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Papillon names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Papillon we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Papillon puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Papillon puppies are small, sharp, and genuinely athletic in a way that surprises everyone who underestimates them. That a trainability and versatility that makes them one of the more rewarding toy breeds to work with is part of what makes them dental care, patella monitoring, gentle handling given their fragile size, and mental stimulation, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Papillon brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Papillon’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Papillons are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
2. Florida
Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.
3. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
4. Washington
Western Washington's wet, mild climate creates near-perfect conditions for fleas year-round, and slugs in the Pacific Northwest can carry lungworm, a parasite dogs can pick up by sniffing or eating them. Eastern Washington and the Cascades bring different risks, including rattlesnakes and wildlife encounters on trails, so knowing which side of the mountains you're on matters.
5. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Papillon? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Chihuahua
Both are small, alert companion dogs. Chihuahuas form more intense bonds with one person. Papillons are more trainable, more outgoing, and friendlier with strangers and new people.
Read more
Pomeranian
Both are small, lively companion dogs. Pomeranians are fluffier and more vocal. Papillons are more trainable, more athletic, and better suited to owners who want a responsive dog.
Read more
Long Haired Chihuahua
Both are small, elegant companion dogs. Long Haired Chihuahuas are more intensely loyal to one person. Papillons are more trainable, friendlier with strangers, and more outgoing.
Read more
Japanese Chin
Both are small, elegant companion dogs. Japanese Chins are more laid-back and cat-like. Papillons are more energetic, more trainable, and better suited to active companion living.
Read more
Is a Papillon right for you?
Papillons reward the right owner with a sharpness and athletic capability that makes dog sports genuinely accessible even at their tiny size and a devoted, people-focused warmth that makes them outstanding companions for active small-dog owners. They just need dental care, patella monitoring, mental stimulation, and careful handling given their delicate size in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Papillon. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.