Papillon health: what owners should know

Papillons are generally long-lived, but they are known to be prone to loose kneecaps, dental disease and inherited eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy. A few lines carry neuroaxonal dystrophy, a serious neurological disease with a DNA test. Some puppies have a soft spot on the skull that does not fully close. Good breeders examine kneecaps and eyes and use available DNA tests.

Keep your dog lean, brush teeth and protect it from jumps and falls. Call your vet if your dog skips or holds up a back leg, bumps into objects at night, has red swollen gums or bad breath, or loses balance and coordination.