Papitese Dog Breed

The Papitese, as a mixed breed, is not an official member of any breed group--but since both its Papillon and Maltese parent breeds are members of the Toy group in most clubs, this hybrid would fit nicely in that category. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin; while a Papillon-Maltese mix has probably existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. Like other hybrids, the Papitese gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in the U.S. in the late 20th century. These friendly, loyal little dogs are great companions for families of any size, but they're especially well-suited for singles, seniors, or those living in apartments.

A few Maltese-Papillon mix facts: they're toy-sized, averaging nine inches at the shoulders in height and seven pounds in weight; they have long, silky, flowing coats that don't shed much; and they're prone to separation anxiety if left alone.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Papitese:

Some general Papitese information: these little dogs are the offspring of two active, people-oriented toy breeds, so the typical Papitese is loyal, friendly, and quite sensitive. They'll need moderate maintenance too; their coats are fairly long, silky, and single-layered. The coats don't shed much, and can be hypoallergenic (so these hybrids can be good for allergy sufferers).

The Papitese info regarding temperament is that this dog is intelligent, eager to please, and very social. A Papitese will typically get along with kids and other pets (though they may have a high prey drive, meaning they'll instinctively chase small animals like birds and rodents). Papitese dogs are also protective and confident, so they make good watchdogs--and their willingness to please their owners usually makes them easy to train. But Papitese owners will need to give these dogs a lot of time and attention, as they'll get lonely very easily, and will become upset if they're left alone for any length of time! Providing your Papitese with training and socialization, starting during puppyhood if possible, will help the dog mature into a well-balanced, confident little animal.

Papitese are pretty energetic too, but their small size means they don't need a ton of exercise. They'll mostly fulfill their daily activity requirements just running around being their sociable little selves--but a short walk or two each day will be great for them.

The Papitese, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids sometimes suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including patellar luxation, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, eye issues including Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and collapsed trachea (a treatable condition characterized by a persistent honking cough).

Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Papitese is 12-15 years.