Due to their rather high energy level, they demand regular exercise routine, as other companion breeds.

Belgium, France, Spain, and Italy have all been credited with the creation or development of Butterfly Dogs.

By the middle of the 20th century, the Papillon's popularity had far outstripped that of the Phalène, which sank low enough into obscurity to become endangered.

The 21st century has seen a revival of interest in the Phalène, with its fanciers pointing out that in countries where it is judged together with the Papillon, judges must be familiar enough with the breed standard to appreciate the qualities of a well-bred Phalène, and not confuse its dropped ears with those of a semi-erect eared Papillon, which would suggest a conformation fault.

[1] The breed standard is the same with the exception of the dropped ear, which does not sit as low on the head as that of other spaniel types.