Medium
Papillon
The Papillon is a dainty, elegant toy spaniel named for its distinctive butterfly-shaped ears fringed with long, silky hair. The single-layer coat is long and flowing with no undercoat, which means it mats less readily than double-coated breeds but still requires regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain its silky texture and the characteristic ear fringe.
Coat Type
Long, Silky, Flowing Single Coat
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
4 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Natural Papillon Show Coat
The full natural coat maintained at its maximum length, with the ear fringe and tail plume brushed to maximum silkiness and volume. The correct show presentation for the breed.
2
Pet Tidy
The coat maintained at a slightly shorter length, with trimming around the paws, sanitary area, and light neatening of the ear fringe. A practical and elegant everyday style.
3
Summer Trim
The body coat trimmed shorter for comfort in warm weather, while retaining the characteristic ear fringe and tail plume that define the breed's butterfly silhouette.
4
Butterfly Finish
A grooming session focused on maximally presenting the breed's signature feature — the fully brushed, shaped, and volumized ear fringe to highlight the butterfly effect.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- The butterfly ear fringe is the Papillon's defining feature and is also the most prone to tangling; check and gently comb the ear fringe daily to keep it silky and separated rather than clumped.
- The absence of an undercoat means the Papillon's single coat is less prone to matting than double-coated breeds, but the long silky hair still tangles in the armpits, groin, and behind the ears — focus daily brushing on these areas.
- The Papillon is an active, athletic toy dog that often runs through grass and ground cover; check the long coat around the paws and lower legs after outdoor exercise for burrs, seeds, and debris that quickly turn into mats.
- The tail plume should be brushed out fully at every session — it tends to mat when the dog sits and compresses the tail against the back.
- Use a light conditioning spray when brushing the dry single coat; the silky texture is prone to static and breakage when brushed without moisture, which dulls the coat over time.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
TropiClean PerfectFur Whitening & Brightening Shampoo
ShampooNaturally whitens and brightens white coats without bleach or harsh chemicals.
$12 - $18
FURminator Long Hair deShedding Tool for Dogs
BrushThe professional-grade deshedding tool that reaches deep beneath the long topcoat to safely remove loose undercoat without cutting or damaging the guard hairs. Reduces shedding up to 90% with regular use. Essential for heavy seasonal shedders like Collies, Golden Retrievers, and Maine Coons.
$30 - $65
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Deep Dives
Papillon Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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