The Complete Papillon (Book of the Breed S) [Hardcover]

Dating back to the 14th century, the origins of the Papillon can be traced to the courts of Europe where this friendly and intelligent breed was a favourite with the nobility. The authors provide good advice on all aspects of Papillon care & breeding.'

The exquisitely dainty Papillon dates back to the 14th century, and was a favourite in the Royal Courts of Europe. They were owned by James the First of England and Phillip of Spain. Marie Antionette of France was so attached to her pet Papillons that she hid two of her favourite dogs under her skirts when she was taken to die at the guillotine. The breed, often known as the 'butterfly dog', is friendly and intelligent and has done well in Obedience and Agility competitions as well as in the show ring. The authors use their expert knowledge of the breed to trace its history and its development (including a section on the Phalene). Expert advice is given on all aspects of caring for a Papillon from choosing a puppy to diet, exercise and grooming. There is an indepth analysis of the Breed Standard and tips on exhibiting the Papillon in the show ring. For the specialist there is detailed information on breeding a litter, plus a fascinating chapter on Papillon!
collectables.

Carolyn and David Roe have bred and shown Papillons for the past twenty years. Their first dog, Ch. Fircrest Fanta of Sunshoo, enjoyed great success in the show ring, winning a total of nine Challenge Certificates. He went on to become the foundation of the Sunshoo kennels, and Sunshoo Papillons have now been exported to the USA, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Italy and Australia and become Champions. The kennels have also included Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Lhasa Apsos, Rottweilers and Maremma Sheepdogs, and David and Carolyn have bred and owned Champions in the Toy, Working and Utility Groups. They are both international Championship Show Judges, and have been involved in breed club and Championship show administration.

The Papillon is a descendant of the Continental Toy Spaniel, and this breed probably dates back to the fourteenth century. The word 'spaniel' means 'dog of Spain', but it is very difficult to trace the Papillon's precise country of origin - it has been claimed by France and Belgium as well as Spain. The popular belief is that the breed originated in France, hence the French names 'Papillon' (butterfly) for the erect-eared variety, and 'Phalene' (moth) for the drop-eared variety. The history of the Continental Toy Spaniel, the Royal Toy Spaniel and the Papillon is virtually impossible to separate in the early years; all three toy dogs were bred as companion 'lap' dogs, and they were the favourites of the nobility, who could afford to breed dogs specifically to serve their leisure pursuits. As a result, hunting dogs were bred to serve the master of the household, and toy dogs were bred to be dainty, attractive and ornamental, with a faithful and loving temperament.