Papillon vs Chihuahua NZ: Two Tiny Dogs With Very Different Personalities

Both the Papillon and the Chihuahua are tiny, long-lived toy breeds popular in New Zealand — but they are temperamentally quite different. The Papillon is a bubbly, athletic and trainable little dog; the Chihuahua is feisty, loyal to a fault, and fiercely independent. Which tiny dog suits your Kiwi home?

Quick Comparison

The Papillon

Temperament

The Papillon (French for "butterfly," after their distinctive ear shape) is a remarkably athletic and intelligent toy dog. Don't be deceived by their delicate appearance — Papillons compete in agility and obedience at high levels, and often beat larger breeds. In New Zealand, Papillons are particularly popular in dog sports communities because they are eager, quick and genuinely enjoy training.

Papillons are sociable and friendly with children (5/5) and generally good with other pets (4/5). They are adaptable — comfortable in a flat or a house — as long as they get daily walks and mental stimulation. They are not clingy or anxious; they are confident little dogs that enjoy engaging with the world.

Grooming

Despite the flowing coat, Papillons do not have an undercoat, which means they do not mat as severely as many long-haired breeds. Weekly brushing is generally sufficient. They do not require professional grooming as often as many other long-coated small breeds — a practical plus for NZ owners.

NZ Lifestyle Fit

Papillons make excellent companions for active owners of any age — from students to retirees. They are well-suited to apartment living in Auckland or Wellington if they get daily exercise. Their light weight means they are also easier to carry on public transport or in dog-friendly cafes — a growing part of NZ urban life.

Price and Availability

NZ registered breeders charge $2,500–$4,000. Papillons are not extremely common; expect a waiting list from reputable breeders.

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The Chihuahua

Temperament

The Chihuahua is one of the most divisive breeds — adored by those who understand them, often misunderstood by those who don't. They are fiercely loyal to their person (sometimes to just one person) and can be wary of strangers, unfamiliar children, and even other dogs. This is not aggression in the traditional sense — it is the defensive posture of a tiny dog that knows it is tiny. Proper socialisation from puppyhood is critical.

Chihuahuas score 3/5 for children — they are best suited to households with older, calmer children who will not frighten them. They are typically better in one or two-person households where they can bond intensely. They are opinionated, entertaining and deeply affectionate with their chosen people.

Size and Fragility

At 1.5–3 kg, Chihuahuas are among the smallest dogs in the world. This creates practical considerations in NZ homes: no rough play with larger dogs, careful handling by children, and awareness of how easy it is to accidentally hurt a dog this small. They should not live with large, boisterous dogs.

Grooming

Smooth Chihuahuas need minimal grooming — a weekly brush and the occasional bath. Long-coated Chihuahuas need slightly more attention but are still low-maintenance compared to most long-haired breeds.

NZ Lifestyle Fit

Chihuahuas are natural lap dogs and apartment companions. They are ideal for single people, couples or seniors in Wellington apartments, Auckland townhouses, or smaller NZ homes. They tolerate NZ winters poorly due to their tiny frame and minimal coat — indoor warmth and a well-fitted dog coat for outdoor walks is essential in the South Island.

Price and Availability

NZ registered breeders charge $1,500–$3,500. Chihuahuas are widely available in NZ through registered breeders and also through SPCA (mixed-breed Chihuahua crosses are common).

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Key Differences

Suitability with Children

The most important difference for families: Papillons are excellent with children (5/5); Chihuahuas are not well-suited to young children (3/5). If your household has toddlers or primary-school-age children, the Papillon is the safer choice.

Trainability in Practice

Both score 4/5 for trainability, but their training personalities differ. Papillons love training and find it rewarding; Chihuahuas are capable but more motivated by their own agenda. Chihuahuas respond to short, positive sessions with high-value treats — don't push them.

Bonding Style

Papillons bond warmly with their family and enjoy social settings; Chihuahuas bond intensely to one or two people and can be suspicious of others. Neither is wrong — they're just different.

Cold Weather

Both small dogs feel the cold, but Chihuahuas — especially smooth-coated ones — are particularly vulnerable in NZ winter conditions. South Island owners should plan for indoor warmth and appropriate dog clothing for winter walks.

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Which Tiny Dog Suits Your NZ Life?

Choose the Papillon if you want a small, athletic, trainable and sociable dog that does well with children, dog sports, and active family life.

Choose the Chihuahua if you want an intensely loyal tiny companion for a quieter, smaller household — and you can provide the socialisation and protection this fragile breed needs.

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Key Takeaways

• Both are tiny, long-lived toy breeds with similar energy levels (3/5) and trainability (4/5)
• Papillons are notably better with children (5/5 vs 3/5) — families should lean Papillon
• Chihuahuas bond more intensely to one or two people; Papillons are more broadly sociable
• Both feel the cold — NZ winters require indoor warmth and appropriate outerwear for outdoor walks
• Papillons cost slightly more in NZ ($2,500–$4,000); Chihuahuas are slightly more available

References

• Dogs New Zealand — find a breeder
• SPCA New Zealand
• New Zealand Veterinary Association

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*See our Papillon profile and Chihuahua profile. For small dog comparisons, explore the best small dog breeds NZ guide, or use the find a breed tool.*