Spotlight on the Papillon: Best in Show at Crufts 2019
Whether you’re involved in the world of dog showing and pedigree dog breeding or not, few dog owners in the UK can fail to ignore the annual Crufts dog show, which takes place every March at Birmingham’s NEC arena.
Crufts’ live TV coverage, news updates and social media commentary mean that the highlights of the show reach most dog lovers in the UK and in many other parts of the world too. Even those who are not huge fans of the show often find the coverage fascinating, especially the prestigious Best in Show event on the final evening of the competition.
The winning dog each year takes the spotlight, often increasing interest and demand for the winning breed. In Crufts 2019, the Papillon named Dylan won Best in Show, marking a significant achievement in the breed's history.
In this article, we shine the spotlight on the Papillon puppies, exploring their key traits, personality, and buying advice for UK families considering this unique breed.
The Winning Dog: Dylan the Papillon
Dylan, owned and handled by Kathleen Roosens, is the star of the show. At just two years old, Dylan travelled from Belgium to compete and had earlier won the Kennel Club’s toy group championship.
His win was historic as he is the first Papillon ever to claim Best in Show at Crufts, showcasing the breed's elegance and capabilities.
Understanding the Papillon Breed and Its Care Needs
The Papillon is a toy group breed registered with the UK’s Kennel Club, known for its small, delicate size. Weighing up to 4.5kg and standing 20-28cm tall, the breed has striking butterfly-like feathered ears—hence the French name "Papillon," meaning “butterfly.”
Papillons have a long, silky, and dense coat that requires regular grooming to prevent mats and manage their moderate shedding. Their silky fur tends to shed seasonally, so a consistent grooming routine is vital.
Owners should ensure daily exercise that includes varied walks and off-lead play, as Papillons are lively and energetic despite their toy size. This exercise helps maintain their health and satisfies their smart, active minds.
The Papillon Personality and Family Fit
Highly affectionate and loyal, Papillons form strong bonds with their families and adapt well to various living situations, including smaller homes.
They are intelligent and quick learners, often excelling in training sessions that involve fun tricks and activities. Historically, Papillons have been circus performers, reflecting their trainability and playful spirits.
When exercised and mentally stimulated, Papillons can be left alone for a few hours, making them suitable for owners who work part-time. However, like all dogs, they thrive with companionship and can develop anxiety if left alone too long.
Buying a Papillon: What UK Buyers Should Know
Papillon puppies in the UK tend to be moderately priced, with Kennel Club registered pups averaging around £686 and non-pedigree pups around £509.
Due to their relative rarity, prospective owners may need to travel to find reputable breeders and could face waiting lists.
It is essential to buy from responsible breeders who perform appropriate health testing on parent dogs to reduce the risk of hereditary issues. The average lifespan of a Papillon is 13-15 years, though health concerns can affect this.
When purchasing, always ask breeders about health tests, request to see parent dogs, and review health certificates before committing. Buying from reputable breeders ensures you contribute to ethical breeding practices and helps maintain the breed’s welfare.
What Does KC Registered Mean for Dogs?
Quick Answer: KC registration certifies a dog is a purebred with documented pedigree, registered with The Kennel Club UK.
The Kennel Club (KC) is the UK's official dog breed registry. Registration means the dog has verified ancestry, important for showing, breeding, and health monitoring. KC-registered dogs can participate in official events like Crufts, helping owners uphold breed standards and access health information.
Questions to Ask When Buying a Papillon Puppy
- Health Testing: Have health tests been done for common breed-related conditions? Can you see the results?
- Parent Dogs: Can you meet or see the puppies’ parents to assess temperament and health?
- Breeding Purpose: Why was the litter bred? Is the breeder focused on health and temperament as well as appearance?
- Breeder Support: What kind of ongoing support and advice does the breeder offer post-sale?
- Documentation: Will you receive vaccination records, microchipping details, and a contract?
- Reputation: Can you get references from previous puppy buyers?
Where to Buy a Papillon Puppy in the UK
Buying from trusted sources is essential to ensure the health and wellbeing of your new pet. The Kennel Club maintains a list of Assured Breeders who adhere to breeding standards and welfare practices.
Breed clubs and dog shows are also great places to meet responsible breeders. Avoid impulse purchases from pet shops or online adverts without verification, as these may support unethical breeding.
How to Find a Reputable Papillon Breeder in the UK
Start by checking official Kennel Club resources and breed-specific clubs. Good breeders welcome visits to see their facilities and provide complete health and lineage information.
Meeting the breeder in person and seeing where puppies are raised gives insight into the environment and care provided. Transparent breeders will readily discuss health, temperament, and the parents’ care and testing.
Be prepared for waiting lists and do not rush. Responsible breeders focus on matching puppies to suitable homes and ensuring lifelong welfare.
Conclusion
The Papillon is a sophisticated and affectionate breed with a strong history in the show ring, exemplified by Dylan’s Best in Show win at Crufts 2019. They need regular grooming, adequate daily exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation to thrive.
If you’re considering a Papillon puppy, prioritise buying from responsible, health-conscious breeders who provide full transparency and support. This promotes the breed’s welfare and ensures a happy companion for years to come.
Explore Papillon breeders today and take the first steps toward welcoming this lovely breed into your home responsibly.
