Papimo
The Papimo is a cross between the American Eskimo and the Papillon. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Papimo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
American Eskimo
The American Eskimo Dog is a beautiful Nordic-type breed that presents a picture of strength, agility, alertness, and beauty. This breed comes in three size varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club: toy standing nine to twelve inches, miniature standing twelve to fifteen inches, and standard standing fifteen to nineteen inches at the withers. Weight varies proportionally with height, with toys weighing six to ten pounds, miniatures weighing ten to twenty pounds, and standards weighing up to thirty-five pounds. Regardless of size, the breed exhibits a compactly built and well-balanced body with good substance and adequate bone. The American Eskimo Dog's face is distinctly Nordic in type, featuring erect triangular ears that are slightly blunt-tipped and blend softly with the head. The skull is slightly crowned and softly wedge-shaped, with the widest breadth between the ears. The stop is well-defined but not abrupt, and the muzzle is broad with a length not exceeding that of the skull. The eyes are not fully round but slightly oval, set well apart, and range from dark to medium brown in color. The distinctive black points consisting of the lips, nose, and eye rims provide striking contrast against the white coat and contribute to the breed's alert and intelligent expression. The hallmark of the American Eskimo Dog is its beautiful white double coat. The undercoat is short and dense, while the longer guard hairs grow through it to form the outer coat, which is straight with no curl or wave. The coat is thicker and longer around the neck and chest, forming a lion-like ruff that is more pronounced in males. The rump and hind legs are covered with thicker, longer hair forming characteristic breeches down to the hocks. The plumed tail is set moderately high and carried loosely over the back. The coat color is always white or white with biscuit cream markings, and the breed should be presented in its natural state without trimming.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament American Eskimo Dogs are devoted family companions who need to be included in daily activities and do not thrive when isolated or left alone for extended periods. They form strong bonds with their owners and can develop separation anxiety if their social needs are not met. The breed is generally good with children and can coexist peacefully with other pets when raised together, though their prey drive may be problematic around small animals like rodents or birds. Eskies have moderate to high energy levels and require daily exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and well-behaved. They adapt well to various living situations but need adequate outlets for their energy and intelligence.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Hip dysplasia, while less common than in larger breeds, does occur in American Eskimo Dogs. This condition causes improper hip joint development, leading to arthritis, pain, and mobility issues. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise can help manage symptoms. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is another orthopedic concern affecting young dogs, causing degeneration of the femoral head and resulting in pain and lameness. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of position, is also seen in the breed. Dental disease is particularly common in American Eskimos, making regular dental care essential. Other conditions to be aware of include epilepsy, diabetes, Addison's disease, allergies, and tear staining. Regular veterinary checkups and obtaining dogs from breeders who conduct health testing can help ensure a healthy companion.
Papillon
The Papillon is a small, elegant toy breed with a fine-boned structure that gives it a dainty yet sturdy appearance. Standing between eight and eleven inches at the shoulder and weighing between five and ten pounds, this breed presents a well-balanced and harmonious profile. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a rectangular outline that emphasizes the breed's graceful proportions. Despite their delicate appearance, Papillons possess a surprisingly hardy constitution with adequate bone structure that allows them to be active and athletic companions. The most distinctive feature of the Papillon is its large, butterfly-like ears, which gave the breed its French name meaning butterfly. These ears are set on the sides of the head toward the back and are carried obliquely, resembling the spread wings of a butterfly when alert. The ear leather should be strong enough to maintain the erect position, and the ears are well-fringed with flowing hair. A drop-eared variety exists called the Phalene, meaning moth, which carries its ears drooping but is otherwise identical to the erect-eared variety. Both ear types may appear in the same litter. The Papillon's coat is long, fine, silky, and flowing with a straight texture and resilient quality that lies flat against the body. The breed lacks an undercoat, which means it does not mat easily and has minimal doggy odor. A profuse frill adorns the chest, while the back of the forelegs features feathering and the hind legs display abundant breeches. The plumed tail is set high and carried arched over the back with flowing, cascading hair. The coat color is always parti-colored or white with patches of any color, with symmetrical facial markings preferred and a white blaze extending down the muzzle. The small head is slightly rounded between the ears with dark, round, medium-sized eyes that convey an alert and intelligent expression.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Papillons form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship. They are affectionate dogs that enjoy both active play sessions and quiet cuddle time on their owner's lap. While they can adapt well to various living situations including apartments, they are known to be vocal and make excellent watchdogs, alerting their families to any changes in their environment. They generally get along well with other dogs and cats when properly introduced, though their small size means interactions with larger animals or young children should be supervised.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Dental disease is particularly prevalent in Papillons and other small breeds due to their compact mouths. Tartar accumulation can progress to gum inflammation, infection, and premature tooth loss if not properly managed. Daily tooth brushing and regular professional dental cleanings are essential preventive measures. Some Papillons may also experience tracheal collapse, a condition where the windpipe flattens and restricts airflow. Using a harness instead of a collar can help reduce pressure on the trachea. Other conditions to be aware of include cataracts, von Willebrand disease, and hypoglycemia in puppies. Regular veterinary examinations and purchasing from breeders who conduct appropriate health testing can help ensure a healthy companion.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Papimo may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the American Eskimo and Papillon to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.