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Dogs · France / Belgium

Phalène

Drop-eared variety of the Papillon, fine, lively and affectionate. Size Very small, life expectancy 13–16 years, energy High. Expect CHF 1'400 – 2'600 to buy and CHF 70–120 / month upkeep.

See available Phalène
Phalène
At a glance
Size
Very small
Energy
High
Life expectancy
13–16 years
Estimated budget
CHF 70–120 / month
Indicative price
CHF 1'400 – 2'600
Origin
France / Belgium
Weight
2–5 kg
Height at withers
20–28 cm
Coat
Long, silky
Coat colour
White with patches

The profile at a glance

Energy
Affection
With children
With other animals
Easy to train
Grooming
Noise level
Tolerates being alone
Pros
  • Drop-eared variety
  • Fine, lively and affectionate
  • Intelligent
Things to watch
  • Can bark
  • Fragile teeth / patella
  • Light grooming
01

Temperament

Drop-eared variety of the Papillon, fine, lively and affectionate.

02

Daily needs

Exercise and stimulation, light grooming.

03

Health & care

Patella, teeth. Long-lived.

04

Ideal for

Families, city-dwellers, apartment.

Origin & history

The Phalène is the drop-eared variety of the Continental Toy Spaniel, of which the Papillon is the prick-eared version. It is in fact the older form: these small spaniels with hanging ears appear in many European paintings from the Renaissance onward, where they accompanied the nobility. Its name, which evokes a moth with folded wings, refers to its ears falling along the head. With a silky coat and an elegant bearing, the Phalène is a small dog that is lively, intelligent and very attached to its owners, known for its gentleness and ease of learning.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference from the Papillon?

It is the same Continental Toy Spaniel breed: the Phalène has drop ears, the Papillon has erect ears. Both varieties can appear in the same litter.

Why the name Phalène?

The word phalène refers to a moth with folded wings, in reference to its ears that fall along the head, as opposed to the prick-eared Papillon.

What is its character like?

Lively, intelligent and gentle, the Phalène is very attached to its owners, known to be sociable and easy to train, which makes it a pleasant companion.

Similar breeds

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