Papillon Guide
Papillon Health: What Puppy Buyers Should Know
Quick Answer
Papillons are generally a hardy, long-lived toy breed. Health concerns that can appear in the breed include kneecap problems (patellar luxation), certain eye conditions, dental disease, and low blood sugar in very small puppies. Regular vet care and good breeding practices help reduce risk.
Why This Matters
Knowing common breed concerns helps you ask better questions, spot problems early, and plan for lifelong care.
Key Things to Know
Common health considerations
- Patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps)
- Eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy
- Dental disease, common in small breeds
- Low blood sugar in tiny puppies
- Sensitivity to anesthesia; discuss with your vet before procedures
Health screening breeders may consider
Breed health programs commonly recommend knee (patella) evaluation and eye exams, with heart evaluation also often discussed. Ask any breeder which screenings their dogs have had and to see results.
Routine care
- Yearly vet exams
- Vaccines and parasite prevention as your vet advises
- Regular tooth brushing
- Keeping your dog lean
What This Means for a Puppy Buyer
Ask every breeder what health screening has been done on the parents and what records come with the puppy. Then build a relationship with your own veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Papillons healthy dogs?
Papillons are generally considered a healthy, long-lived breed, though like all breeds they have some known concerns.
What health testing should Papillon breeders do?
Knee and eye evaluations are commonly recommended for the breed, with heart checks often discussed. Ask to see results.
What signs need a vet call right away?
Weakness, shaking, refusing food, repeated vomiting or diarrhea, trouble breathing, or sudden limping.
Related Papillon Resources
Available Papillon Puppies
See our current availability and planned litters, or meet the Papillons in our program.