Border Terrier vs Papillon
Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy
Border TerrierSmall
An affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border.
Weight: 13–15.5 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
PapillonToy
A friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums.
Weight: 5–10 lbsLifespan: 14–16 years
Quick take
- • Border Terrier is the larger breed at 13–15.5 lbs (males) vs 5–10 lbs for the Papillon.
- • The Papillon typically lives longer (14–16 years).
- • The Papillon is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Border Terrier | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Toy |
Size | Small | Toy |
Origin | England | France |
Height (male) | 13–15" | 8–11" |
Height (female) | 13–15" | 8–11" |
Weight (male) | 13–15.5 lbs | 5–10 lbs |
Weight (female) | 11.5–14 lbs | 5–10 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 14–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.
About the Papillon
The Papillon is a friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums. Originally from France, this toy toy breed typically weighs 5–10 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, alert, happy.
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Border Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Heart problems
Papillon health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Dental issues
- • Progressive retinal atrophy