Phalene Profile & Information
Low Shedding Small Dogs | Apartment Living | Easiest to Train
Small Breeds Best with Children | Small Dogs that Stay Small
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Appearance
*The Papillion Phalene dog can be considered rather fragile. They are the essentially the same breed as the Papillon (except that they have dropped ears).
*They stand 8 to 11 inches tall.
*They typically weigh between 7 and 10 pounds.
*These small dogs have large ears that are dropped.
*Their tail normally sits high and curls over the body.
*Their coat is relatively long with straight hairs and is silky to the touch.
*These small dogs can be found in white with markings of nearly any color. Some of the more common colors include:
1. black
2. lemon
3. red
4. tan
5. brown
6. silver
7. sable
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Temperament
*The small toy breed is affectionate.
*They are quite active, playful, athletic, and intelligent as well.
*These small dogs are loyal to their owners and want to be involved with family activities.
*They are good with responsible children, other dogs, and other animals.
*This small dog is typically friendly toward people and has been used as a therapy dog.
*This breed has a tendency to bark quite a bit. Thus, they will let you know when a visitor is at the door (they can be a good watch dog).
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Living Standards
*Due to their energetic personality, this toy breed may be better suited for a home with a small yard.
*If you live in an apartment, be sure to get this small dog plenty of exercise.
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Exercise
*These dogs require a daily walk (a long distance is recommended).
*In addition to a walk, these small dogs love to play (especially outdoors). Be sure to let them run in a safe open area.
*As mentioned earlier, Papillons are athletic little dogs and enjoy agility type training.
*Be sure to provide them with dog toys, tennis balls, and bones to chew.
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Litter Size
*This breed will typically have between 2 and 4 pups per litter.
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Health and Life Expectancy
*In general, this is a healthy breed.
*Certain health issue related to these small dogs include:
1 .Luxating Patella
2. Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy
4. Epilepsy
5. Heart Problems
6. Liver Disorders
7. Sensitive to drugs such as anesthesia
**The life expectancy of this breed is typically between 15 and 18 years of age.
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Training and Obedience
*Due to their intelligence, these dogs are known as the easiest toy breed to obedience train.
*These small dogs can be trained to perform a variety of tricks. They are also good with agility competitions.
*When training this breed, be firm and patient (never aggressive).
*Be sure to show this small dog that you are the leader.
*Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.
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Grooming
*This breed is low sheding with the seasons. It is best to brush them on a daily basis (use a soft bristle brush and a comb).
*Be sure to untangle any mats or knots in the fur.
*These dogs are somewhat prone to developing tartar on their teeth. Thus, it is important to check and clean their teeth on a regular basis.
*Be sure to clip their nails when necessary.
*These small dogs should be bathed when necessary as well.
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History
*The Phalene dog is known as one of the oldest breeds.
*These small dogs date back to 13th century as a apart of the "dwarf spaniel" breed.
*These dogs were owned by nobles and royalty.
*This small breed was popular throughout Europe, France, Spain, and Italy.
*These small dogs were also used as ratters.
*The Phalene was first registered with the AKC in 1935.
*To date, Phalenes are still quite popular.
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