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WRITTEN BY
Dr. Iulia Mihai
DVM MSc (Veterinarian)
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
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The Papillon is a small but feisty dog known for its energy and friendly demeanor. Their distinctive raised ears give them a butterfly-like appearance, hence the breed’s name, which means “butterfly” in French. However, some individuals may have drooping ears, known as “phalene” or “night moth” ears.
Originating in France as the Continental Toy Spaniel, the Papillon historically had ears that did not stand erect. The type of ears a Papillon has is purely a matter of personal preference and not considered a defect, with different ear types possible even within the same litter.
Despite their charming appearance, Papillons are prone to specific health issues, such as luxating patella, von Willebrand disease, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and separation anxiety.
The 5 Common Papillon Health Issues
1. Luxating Patella
Luxating patella is a condition where the kneecap is displaced from its normal position in the knee joint. This can be congenital or acquired, with heredity being a significant factor, especially in toy breeds like the Papillon.
There are four degrees of patellar luxation, ranging from mild to severe dislocation. Clinical signs include intermittent lameness, difficulty bending the knee, cracking sounds, and pain while moving. Treatment may range from conservative management to surgical intervention.
An image of a vet holding a Papillon dog: 
2. Von Willebrand Disease
Von Willebrand disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder affecting dogs, with type I being the most common and least severe form found in Papillons. Clinical signs may include excessive bleeding after nail trimming, surgery, or bruising easily. Diagnosis involves specific tests to determine the type and severity of the disease.
For acute situations, von Willebrand factor transfusions may be necessary to manage bleeding episodes.
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a degenerative eye condition leading to blindness, affecting various dog breeds, including Papillons. PRA results in the gradual loss of vision due to photoreceptor degeneration.
Early signs may include decreased night vision progressing to daytime vision loss. Diagnosis by an ophthalmologist can help in managing the disease to slow its progression.
An image showcasing a Papillon: 
4. Cataracts
Cataracts can impair a dog’s vision by clouding the lens of the eye, leading to partial or complete blindness. Papillons, especially toy breeds, are prone to cataracts, which can be genetic, age-related, or due to underlying conditions like diabetes.
Typical signs include difficulty judging distances, increased clumsiness, and cloudy eyes. Treatment may involve surgical lens replacement.
5. Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety in dogs manifests as distress when left alone or anticipating being alone. The exact cause is multifactorial, including early weaning, emotional instability, and excessive dependence on the owner.
Signs of separation anxiety may include excessive vocalization, destructive behaviors, and house soiling. Veterinary evaluation is essential to differentiate separation anxiety from other health issues.
An adorable puppy image: 
Conclusion
Papillons, like any breed, are susceptible to specific health conditions, emphasizing the importance of regular veterinary check-ups. Conditions like PRA, patellar luxation, cataracts, von Willebrand disease, and separation anxiety can impact a Papillon’s quality of life. Early detection and management are key to ensuring a healthy and happy pet.
- For additional information on Papillon mixes, check out: 18 Papillon Mixes: History, Pictures & Info
Sources
- https://www.fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk/orthopaedic/patellar-luxation/
- https://vetspecialists.co.uk/fact-sheets-post/patellar-luxation-fact-sheet/
- https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/tests/details/157/?breed=279
- https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/behaviour/separationrelatedbehaviour
Featured Image Credit: Fayzulin Serg, Shutterstock
