Papillon is French for butterfly, and it is easy to see where the breed gets its name – the large, beautifully fringed ears distinctly butterfly-like in appearance. They are also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, and Louis is a gorgeous example of this breed.
Louis is 2½ years old and has a fun-loving character – always cheerful and gentle, and smart, with boundless energy and stamina. He is very dainty and far too pretty for a boy – he has the most wonderful flowing coat and a very graceful walk/trot, but when he runs he can outpace most dogs, his tail tucks underneath to ensure he is aerodynamic and off he goes.
The highlight of Louis’ portrait was definitely those amazing ears – you only get one chance at getting each of those hairs right! The eyes are also critical; it’s a cliché, but it’s true – they really are the windows of the soul and, for a bright, energetic dog like Louis, they really need to sparkle.
