Smooth Foxillon
The Smooth Foxillon is a cross between the Papillon and the Smooth Fox Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Smooth Foxillon. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Papillon
The Papillon is a small, elegant toy spaniel that stands between 8 and 11 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs between 5 and 10 pounds, with breed standards disqualifying dogs exceeding 12 inches in height. Despite their delicate and dainty appearance, Papillons possess a fine-boned but surprisingly sturdy structure that allows for remarkable athleticism and agility uncommon in toy breeds. Their body is slightly longer than tall, creating a balanced silhouette that moves with light, quick, and flowing steps characterized by ground-covering reach and effortless grace. The overall impression is one of refined elegance combined with a hardy constitution that belies their diminutive size. The breed's most distinctive and celebrated feature is their large, butterfly-like ears that give them their name, which is French for butterfly. The ears are large, well-fringed with flowing silky hair, and set on the sides of the head toward the back. When erect, each ear forms approximately a 45-degree angle to the head, with the rounded tips pointing outward like the gracefully spread wings of a butterfly in flight. A variation called the Phalene, meaning moth in French, has drop ears that hang down rather than stand erect, and both ear types can appear in the same litter and are equally acceptable. The head is small with a slightly rounded skull between the ears and a fine muzzle that tapers elegantly toward a small black nose. The Papillon's coat is long, fine, silky, and flowing, with no undercoat, making it surprisingly easy to maintain despite its luxurious appearance. The hair lies flat on the back and sides of the body, while abundant frills adorn the chest, ears, backs of the legs, and the plumed tail which arches over the back. The coat is always parti-colored, meaning white with patches of any color covering both ears and extending over both eyes. Common color combinations include white with black, white with red or sable, and tricolor patterns featuring white, black, and tan markings. The large, dark, round eyes are set well apart and express alertness and intelligence, while black pigmentation is required on the nose, lips, and eye rims regardless of coat color.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Papillons form strong attachments to their families and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They thrive on human interaction and involvement in family activities, preferring to be at the center of attention. While generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized, their small size means interactions with young children should be supervised to prevent accidental injury. They can be vocal and will bark to alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, though this tendency can be managed with training. Their confident and outgoing nature makes them adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Von Willebrand disease, a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in a clotting factor, occurs in some Papillon lines and can cause excessive bleeding during injuries or surgical procedures. Testing is available to identify affected dogs and carriers. Dental disease is a significant concern due to their small mouths, making regular dental care and professional cleanings essential. Collapsing trachea, a condition where the windpipe weakens and can cause breathing difficulties and coughing, affects some small breeds including Papillons. Open fontanelles, where the soft spot on the skull does not fully close, can occur and makes affected dogs more vulnerable to head injuries. Allergies, epilepsy, and liver shunts have also been reported in the breed.
Smooth Fox Terrier
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a well-balanced, athletic dog that presents a picture of strength and agility in a compact frame built for endurance and speed. Males typically stand between 14 and 16 inches at the shoulder and weigh 17 to 19 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 13 to 15 inches and 15 to 17 pounds. The breed possesses a distinctively square build when viewed from the side, with the length of the body from shoulder to buttocks approximately equal to the height at the withers. This balanced proportion contributes to their characteristic quick, efficient, and ground-covering movement that allows them to work tirelessly in the field. The head of the Smooth Fox Terrier is one of its most distinguishing features, presenting a long, lean appearance with a flat skull that gradually narrows toward the eyes and continues in a gentle taper to a strong muzzle. The muzzle is powerful and well-developed, tapering toward a black nose, with tight-fitting lips and strong jaws capable of delivering a punishing bite necessary for their original work as fox bolters. The eyes are small, dark, moderately deep-set, and nearly circular in shape, conveying an expression of keen intelligence, alertness, and fire. The ears are V-shaped, small, and moderately thick, folding forward with the tips dropping close to the cheeks rather than hanging by the side of the head. The breed's coat is smooth, flat, hard, dense, and abundant, providing effective protection while requiring minimal grooming. The predominant color is white, which must cover at least half of the body, with markings of black, tan, or black and tan distributed over the head and body. This predominantly white coloring was historically essential as it allowed hunters to easily distinguish the dog from the quarry during hunts. The neck is clean, muscular, and of fair length, flowing into well-laid-back shoulders that enable proper reach. The chest is deep but not broad, and the short, level back provides a strong platform. The tail is traditionally docked to three-quarters length and carried gaily but not curved over the back.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While Smooth Fox Terriers generally get along well with people of all ages, they can be quarrelsome with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop appropriate behaviors around other animals. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on companionship and interaction. Despite their small to medium size, they are robust and energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental engagement to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Their playful nature and zest for life make them entertaining companions for active families who appreciate their spirited personality.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Neurological conditions including epilepsy and wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical vertebral instability, have been documented in the breed. Wobbler syndrome affects the cervical spine and can cause unsteady gait and coordination problems. Eye conditions beyond lens luxation include cataracts and distichiasis, where eyelashes grow abnormally and can irritate the eye. Congenital deafness, often associated with predominantly white coloring, occurs in some individuals. Dental disease is common and requires regular attention to maintain oral health. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for known hereditary conditions and can provide health clearances for prospective puppy buyers.
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 Smooth Foxillon 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 Papillon and Smooth Fox Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.