Papillon vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Toy · Toy vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Polish Lowland Sheepdog is the larger breed at 30–50 lbs (males) vs 5–10 lbs for the Papillon.
  • The Papillon typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog sheds less.
  • The Papillon is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPapillonPolish Lowland Sheepdog
Group
ToyHerding
Size
ToyMedium
Origin
FrancePoland
Height (male)
8–11"18–20"
Height (female)
8–11"17–19"
Weight (male)
5–10 lbs30–50 lbs
Weight (female)
5–10 lbs30–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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.

About the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a clever, lively, perceptive Polish shaggy herder — shaggy-coated dog known for memory and adaptability. Originally from Poland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 30–50 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, lively, perceptive.

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Papillon health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Dental issues
  • Progressive retinal atrophy

Polish Lowland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders