The Papitese is a designer hybrid of two companion purebred dogs, the Maltese and the Papillon. The mix is a highly social and affectionate dog that loves spending time with its family. As a designer companion, the Papitese, which sometimes goes by Maltillon, is a popular choice and is recognized by five competitive associations and breed registries. The Papitese has a cheerful face and playful manner that’s eager to please and be loved.
The Papitese, despite its popularity as a designer dog, does not have a well-documented history. Most designer dogs are thought to be developed in the United States, but the exact origins of the Papitese are unknown. Instead, owners wishing to have a better understanding of their Papitese or whether adopting one is right for their family can review the respective histories and character traits of the parent breeds for more information. The Maltese first appeared in the Mediterranean and most likely in Malta, where it draws its name, though Italy is also a debated origin for the Maltese. The small companion dog has also given rise to other favored breeds, such as the Bichon Frise of France and the Havanese of Cuba. The affectionate little dog graced many courts in Europe since the 15th Century and faced a near disastrous end when breeders attempted to further reduce its size to that of a squirrel. After realizing the error of their ways, several other breeds were introduced into the Maltese bloodline, which gave rise to new breed cousins. The modern Maltese developed in England and was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888. The Papillon is another companion dog of Europe that first developed from the Toy Spaniel lines in Spain. The toy-sized breed was particularly popular in France during the 16th Century, where it first gained its name, Papillon. Papillon, which is French for butterfly, refers to the winged ears of the breed. A dropped-ear variation of the Papillon, dubbed the Phalene, also draws its name from the French court. Phalene is French for moth and refers to the dropped ears as wings at rest, like that of the moth. The Papillon continues to be a favorite companion dog in Europe and in the United States, where is first arrived during the early 20th Century. The American Kennel Club recognized the Papillon as a companion in 1915.