Caring for your Papillon

Quick answer

Papillons are generally energetic and loyal companions, but they are prone to specific health conditions that require proactive monitoring. By maintaining consistent daily routines, including weight checks, dental inspections, and careful observation of your dog's movement and breathing, you can identify potential issues early. Working closely with your veterinary team to establish a baseline for your dog's health is the best way to manage these breed-specific tendencies.

Patellar Luxation

This is a well recognised tendency in the breed. It involves the kneecap slipping out of its normal groove during movement. At home, you might notice your Papillon skipping, hopping, or suddenly holding a back leg up while walking or running. Sometimes, the leg may appear to lock or straighten awkwardly.

When you visit the vet, they will perform a physical manipulation of the knee joint to check for instability. If the kneecap moves out of place easily, they may recommend imaging to assess the severity. The urgency of this condition depends on the level of pain and the degree of lameness. A common mistake is assuming a temporary limp is just a minor strain and waiting for it to resolve on its own, which can delay necessary support for the joint.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

This condition involves the gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss. How this passes down is not settled, but it is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice that their dog seems hesitant in low light, bumps into furniture, or appears less confident when navigating new environments.

Your vet will use a specialized light to examine the back of the eye, looking for changes in the appearance of the retina. If vision loss is suspected, they may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist for a detailed examination. While there is no cure, identifying the condition early allows you to make adjustments to your home environment to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Fontanelle Issues

Some Papillons may have an open fontanelle, which is a soft spot on the top of the skull where the bones have not fully fused. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may feel a soft area on the top of the head during grooming or petting. While some dogs live their entire lives with an open fontanelle without complications, it leaves the brain more vulnerable to injury.

Your vet will monitor the size of the soft spot during routine examinations. The most important thing for an owner is to protect the head from trauma. Avoid rough play or activities where the head could be bumped. If you notice any sudden changes in behavior, head tilting, or neurological signs, this requires immediate veterinary attention.

Dental Disease

Due to their small mouths, Papillons are prone to overcrowding of teeth, which leads to a recognised tendency for dental disease. You might notice bad breath, red or swollen gums, or difficulty eating. At home, you should perform a weekly dental glance to check for tartar buildup or loose teeth.

Your vet will perform a thorough oral exam during every visit. If professional cleaning or extractions are needed, they will discuss the process with you. A common mistake is failing to provide regular dental care, which allows plaque to harden into tartar, eventually leading to painful gum infections and tooth loss.

Managing Daily Care

To keep your Papillon healthy, prioritize short, frequent training sessions rather than long, exhausting ones. This keeps them mentally stimulated without overexerting their joints. Always provide a clean, quiet space where they can rest undisturbed. If you notice any changes in your dog's itch levels, limp, or appetite, keep a log of when these symptoms occur. This information is invaluable to your vet when determining the cause of the problem.