Papillon dog hereditary health: Testing & common conditions

The Papillon dog is a small spaniel-type breed, known also as the continental toy spaniel. Its name means “butterfly” in French, in reference to the distinctive, wing-like fringe of hair on its ears. Despite their delicate size, Papillons are lively, confident, and popular as companion pets across the UK and beyond.

Before deciding to buy or adopt a Papillon, it’s essential to understand their hereditary health, potential risks, and the testing breeders use to maintain healthy lines. This guide details everything you need to know about Papillon health screening, common issues, and responsible ownership.

Papillon Longevity and Genetic Diversity

The breed averages around 12 years lifespan, which is typical for dogs of comparable small size, with many living into their mid-teens. Papillons have a low coefficient of inbreeding around 5.3%, which is within a healthy range for pedigree breeds, indicating conscientious breeding practices to maintain genetic diversity.

Hereditary Health Conditions in Papillons

Several genetic disorders are known to affect the breed, some with serious consequences if not properly managed:

• Von Willebrand’s Disease Type 1 (vWD1): A blood clotting disorder causing prolonged bleeding episodes such as nosebleeds or bruising. Inherited recessively, it can be identified through DNA testing.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA1): A degenerative eye disease leading to blindness, detectable via genetic screening.
• Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures (NAD): A fatal neurological condition apparent in puppies before 6 months of age.
• Factor VII Deficiency: Another recessive blood clotting disorder identified through DNA tests.
• Patellar Luxation: A joint disorder where the kneecap slips out of position, diagnosed through physical examination rather than DNA testing.
• Heart Conditions: Including mitral valve disease, which requires cardiac evaluation by a veterinary cardiologist.
• Other issues: Deafness (especially in dogs with large white coat areas), black hair folliculitis, cataracts, micropapilla (small optic discs), and neuroaxonal dystrophy.

Recommended Health Testing for Papillon Dogs

The British Veterinary Association and The Kennel Club advocate for pre-breeding health screening to reduce hereditary diseases. Testing recommended includes:

• DNA Testing: For vWD1, PRA1, NAD, Factor VII Deficiency, and other known genetic mutations. These tests classify dogs as clear, carriers, or affected, crucial for responsible breeding decisions to prevent affected litters.
• Physical Exams (OFA - Orthopedic Foundation for Animals): Patellar luxation screening at or after 12 months old, cardiac examinations to detect congenital or progressive heart problems.
• Eye Examinations: Regular checks by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist every two years to catch eye conditions not yet covered by DNA testing.
• Annual Veterinary Review: Some breeders schedule yearly comprehensive vet and reproductive specialist evaluations to monitor overall health.

Breeding Guidance and Responsible Ownership

Ethical breeders use health testing results to avoid breeding carriers together, thereby minimising genetic disease risk. They also maintain low inbreeding coefficients to preserve genetic diversity and overall breed vitality.

Potential Papillon owners should ask breeders for health test results and ensure puppies are sourced from reputable breeders who follow these recommendations. Responsible pet ownership includes regular vet checks, proper nutrition, exercise, and monitoring for any health changes.

Summary Table of Papillon Health Tests

Ensuring your Papillon comes from health-tested parents and maintaining vigilant care promotes a happy, energetic, and healthy companion. Always seek advice from your vet for breed-specific health concerns and support responsible breeding.