Papillon Health and Costs
Breed Group
Toy Dogs
Country of Origin
France
Breed Size
Toy
AKC Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1915
FCI Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1954
Rarity
Very Common2 / 10
Purchase cost
Moderate5 / 10
Life expectancy
Long Lifespan8 / 10
Health
Generally healthy7 / 10
Health problem risk
Moderate health concerns4 / 10
Maintenance cost
Low maintenance cost2 / 10
A Veterinarian's Guide
Papillon Health Problems and Costs
The Papillon is a small, lively dog named for its butterfly-shaped ears, and it is among the longest-lived of all breeds. A short list of problems repeat, though: crowded teeth, kneecaps that slip, an inherited eye disease, and a weak windpipe. Knowing them before you bring a puppy home, or while you already share your life with one, makes screening and vet visits much easier to plan.
In this guide
Why Is Dental Care Such a Big Deal for Papillons?
Small jaws hold a full set of teeth, and crowded teeth collect plaque and tartar quickly. Periodontal disease, infection of the gums and the tissue holding the teeth, is the breed's most common problem, and PetMD advises daily tooth brushing plus routine professional cleanings. The name comes from the Greek peri, "around," and odous, "tooth."
Left alone, the disease can lead to pain and early tooth loss, and it often progresses quietly. Starting a brushing habit in puppyhood and booking cleanings before middle age make a real difference. Dental diets and chews help but do not replace brushing.
Are Papillons Prone to Joint Problems?
Patellar luxation, a kneecap that slips out of its normal groove, is an inherited condition in which, as PetMD explains, one or both kneecaps pop in and out of place. The name comes from the Latin patella, "small dish," and luxare, "to dislocate." Mild cases are usually not painful, while severe ones can lead to limping and arthritis, and surgery may be recommended.
A veterinarian can often feel a loose kneecap during a routine exam. The breed club recommends a patella evaluation for breeding dogs, and it is the first item on the AKC health testing list for the breed. Keeping your dog lean is one of the most controllable ways to protect the joints.
Are Papillons Prone to Eye or Airway Issues?
A Papillon with severe trouble breathing, bluish gums, or collapse needs an emergency veterinarian immediately, and a honking cough that keeps returning deserves a prompt appointment.
Progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA, is a group of inherited disorders in which the retina, the light-sensing layer at the back of the eye, breaks down. PetMD notes it is not painful and has no cure, and many dogs adapt well to vision loss in a familiar home. The word atrophy comes from the Greek a-, "without," and trophe, "nourishment." The breed club recommends an eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist for breeding dogs.
Tracheal collapse, in which the windpipe flattens and makes breathing hard, often shows up as a honking cough. Mild cases can be managed with medication, and severe ones may need surgery.
- 01
Honking cough
A dry, goose-like cough that keeps coming back.
- 02
Coughing with excitement or pulling
Episodes after play, heat, or pressure on the neck.
- 03
Labored breathing
Breathing hard at rest, or noisy effort with each breath.
- 04
Blue-tinged gums or collapse
An emergency, so go to the nearest clinic at once.
What About the Skull and Heart?
An open fontanelle, a soft spot in the skull that normally closes by 9 to 12 weeks, sometimes stays open in the breed. PetMD says it usually does not affect the dog but may raise the risk of head injury, and affected dogs should not be bred. The breed club also recommends a cardiac exam for breeding dogs, which is simply a veterinarian listening to the heart and, when needed, doing further tests.
Routine wellness visits are how most heart changes are first noticed, so ask your veterinarian to listen to the heart at each checkup.
What Does Managing a Papillon's Health Actually Cost?
| Condition or Need | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dental cleaning | $300 to $700 | Often needed more often than in larger breeds |
| Patellar luxation surgery | $1,500 to $3,500 per leg | Only for moderate to severe grades |
| Cardiac workup | $150 to $600 | Exam plus an ultrasound if a murmur is found |
| Eye exam by an ophthalmologist | $50 to $150 | Breeding dogs, and if vision changes appear |
These are general estimates that vary by region and clinic, so treat them as a planning guide and ask your veterinarian for a quote.
Questions to Ask a Breeder Before Buying a Puppy
Ask for the parents' patella evaluation, cardiac exam, and eye examination results, since the breed club recommends all three for breeding dogs. It is also fair to ask whether any relatives had an open fontanelle, vision loss, or a honking cough. A breeder who answers clearly and shows documentation is a good sign.
Daily Life With a Papillon
Papillons are more active than most toy breeds, and PetMD says they need more exercise than you might think, ideally with a safe fenced area to run in. They are also very intelligent, so puzzle toys and short, fun training sessions keep them busy. Some develop separation anxiety, which can lead to barking or chewing, and early practice at being alone helps.
The long coat has no undercoat and needs brushing every few days, as the grooming guide explains, and brushing is also a chance to check the ears and spot skin changes. Papillons are bright and social, as the personality profile describes, and consistent, positive training suits them well, although puppies can be slow to house train.
Keeping Your Papillon Healthy for the Long Run
Keep your dog lean, brush the teeth every day, and have the knees, eyes, and heart checked at routine visits. PetMD gives the average lifespan as 14 to 16 years, so a consistent routine pays off over many years. Pet insurance is worth pricing while your dog is young and healthy, since a pre-existing diagnosis can limit what is covered later.
Final Thoughts From a Veterinarian
Papillons usually live 14 to 16 years and are bright, resilient little dogs. Brush the teeth, ask about kneecaps and eyes, keep their minds busy, and see your veterinarian promptly for breathing trouble. Your veterinarian can tailor a plan.
Health & Costs FAQ
How much do Papillon cost?
Purchasing a Papillon from a reputable breeder typically costs between $800 and $3,000, while adoption fees range from $100 to $700. Initial supplies and medical costs can add about $500.
Purchase cost: 5 / 10
How long do Papillon live?
Papillons typically have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years.
Life expectancy: 8 / 10
Are Papillon healthy dogs?
Papillons are generally healthy and among the longest-lived breeds, with an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years. Breed-typical concerns include dental disease, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, tracheal collapse, and an open fontanelle in some dogs.
Health: 7 / 10
What health problems do Papillon have?
Papillons are generally healthy but prone to dental disease, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, and tracheal collapse, and some have an open fontanelle. The breed club recommends patella, cardiac, and eye evaluations for breeding dogs. Severe breathing trouble or collapse needs a veterinarian right away.
Health problem risk: 4 / 10
Are Papillon expensive to maintain?
Papillons are generally affordable to maintain. Their fine coat lacks an undercoat, making grooming straightforward with regular brushing. While their food requirements are modest due to their small size, owners should prioritize dental health and routine vet check-ups. Monthly maintenance costs typically range between $150 and $300.
Maintenance cost: 2 / 10
How much does it cost to own a Papillon per month?
Expect to spend between $150 and $300 per month to own a Papillon. This budget covers high-quality food, routine veterinary visits, preventative medications, and grooming. While they are small and eat less, ongoing costs for mental stimulation and dental care are essential for their well-being.
Monthly ownership cost: 4 / 10
How much does pet insurance cost for a Papillon?
Pet insurance for a Papillon typically costs between $40 and $75 per month, depending on age and coverage limits. Insurance bought while the dog is young and healthy can help with dental, kneecap, and eye costs later.
Pet insurance cost: 4 / 10
Will homeowners insurance cover a Papillon?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover Papillons, as small companion dogs are rarely found on restricted breed lists. You should still notify your insurance provider and confirm that your policy includes liability coverage for your dog.
Homeowners insurance difficulty: 9 / 10
Are Papillon on insurance restricted breed lists?
No, Papillons are not typically found on insurance restricted-breed lists. These lists generally focus on larger breeds with higher perceived liability risks. As small, companion dogs, Papillons are usually viewed as low-risk and are covered under standard homeowners or renters insurance policies without specific breed restrictions.
Insurance restriction risk: 2 / 10
Can you get renters insurance with a Papillon?
Yes, you can typically get renters insurance with a Papillon. As a small, non-aggressive breed, they are rarely found on insurance restricted lists. Landlords generally welcome them due to their size. However, always verify specific breed policies with your provider and check your lease agreement for any pet restrictions.
Renters insurance difficulty: 8 / 10
