Continental Miniature Spaniel – cheerful bundle of energy on four paws

When you encounter a Continental Miniature Spaniel, the first thing you probably notice is his ears. Either they’re hanging down (Phalène) or they’re standing tall (Papillon). It looks cute, no question – but there’s a lot more to this little guy. He’s a sturdy whirlwind that hunts mice for you, elicits cries of delight from strangers, and is sure to quickly find a permanent place in your home and heart.

Cuddly miniature spaniel that has it all

As early as the 13th century, nobles liked to be accompanied by these cute little fellows: both in the British royal family and at the French court, Continental Miniature Spaniels were kept as pets. Unfortunately, this did not only have advantages for the dogs, because during the French Revolution at the end of the 18th century they were almost extinct. It was not until the end of the 19th century that the breed regained its former popularity, when the systematic breeding of Miniature Spaniels began in Belgium and France. Around 1905, the first breed standard was established.

Continental Miniature Spaniel: Character

Small body, big self-confidence – that’s how the Continental Miniature Spaniel can be aptly described. He greets your guests loudly and approaches them courageously. At the same time, he loves the company of his humans and likes to spend time with them. His sensitivity lets him feel how his favorite people are doing. Then he sometimes takes a back seat and gives closeness instead of expecting attention himself.

The Continental Miniature Spaniel does not like dirt at all, it is a very clean animal. If you get him used to brushing as a puppy, he will particularly enjoy these moments.

The adventurous four-legged friend likes to accompany you on excursions, but be careful not to overwhelm him. He is a cheerful, intelligent dog with a lot of temperament.

Continental Miniature Spaniel: Keeping and Training

As small as the Continental Miniature Spaniel is, it has a high level of energy. Take plenty of time for it, play with it or let it accompany you on long walks. Bicycle tours or jogging sessions are not for it due to its small size, but it will enjoy playing ball or fetch games or being an avid dog sports participant.

When living together, the dog proves to be a loyal companion, both with his family and with people he sees often and who spend a lot of time with him. He generally gets along well with children, but you should make sure that he can withdraw and that the children treat him appropriately. He is a small dog that can be injured more easily than, for example, a large, stable Golden Retriever. The Continental Miniature Spaniel gets along well with cats as long as he knows them from an early age. You should not leave smaller pets alone with him, his hunting instinct is too pronounced for that. However, he prefers to live with other dogs.

The Continental Miniature Spaniel can be kept indoors, even in the middle of the city, and even accompanies you to the office. However, it is crucial that it receives a lot of attention and sufficient exercise. Older people can also offer it this.

If the dog lives with you in a house with a garden, it will give him a lot of pleasure. He is a born mouse hunter and also dares to approach rabbits. However, make sure that he cannot escape. This dog finds even the smallest openings in fences and loves to explore its environment.

People who already have experience with dogs find it easier to deal with this breed than beginners. Because if the Continental Miniature Spaniel is not consistently educated early enough, it tends to yelp. This can be unpleasant in an apartment or when traveling. Fortunately, the Continental Miniature Spaniel is smart and capable of learning. In this way, you can teach him to keep his loud barking within limits when he is being trained. He should also be available when his hunting instinct kicks through. This will help you relax and give him the maximum possible freedom.

Caring for the Continental Miniature Spaniel

The coat comes without an undercoat. Although it is long, it is sufficient to brush your Continental Miniature Spaniel every two days. Take this opportunity to also take a look at/into his ears. Mites or other parasites can easily settle there, which can lead to inflammation.

Continental Miniature Spaniel: peculiarities and health

In many small dog breeds, the kneecap can jump out of its lead more easily, this disease is called patellar luxation and the continental miniature spaniel can also be affected by it. In addition, it suffers from allergies or skin problems more often than other breeds.

The breed reacts sensitively to anesthesia. Seek advice from your veterinarian before surgery.

ProfileContinental Miniature Spaniel

You might also like these spaniels:

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• English Cocker Spaniel Cheeky, sometimes a little stubborn and extremely loving: The cheerful bundle of temperament from the island takes hearts by storm. The English Cocker Spaniel is adaptable, friendly and playful.
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