Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulear
Size: Small
Other Names: Coton, Royal Dog of Madagascar
Country of Origin: Madagascar
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Non-Sporting
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Toys
United Kennel Club (UKC): Companion Dog
The Kennel Club (KC): Toy
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Toy

The Coton de Tulear has very soft hair, like a cotton ball, a prominent black nose; large, round expressive eyes, which are usually covered by bangs; and somewhat short, puffy legs.  His ears are triangular and set high.  His expression is lively, intelligent, bright, and merry.

A small, cotton-coated companion who fits an apartment; daily coat care and a generally cheerful, only moderately vocal household manner.

The Coton de Tulear is a small breed of dog of the Bichon type.  It is named for the city of Tulear in Madagascar, where it was developed, and for its cottony textured coat.  Cotons have been very popular and compatible with people who have allergies.  Contrary to myth, the Coton has very little prey drive, and is not a hunting dog.
Height
Male: 10-13 inches; Female: 8½-10½ inches
Weight
Male: 9-15 pounds; Female: 8-11 pounds
Color
White, possibly with lemon color on ears and body; black and white, which is pure white with prominent black patches on the head and body; and tri-color, which is mostly white with some brown markings and dustings of black on the body and head; a "honeybear" tri-color has light brown with black tips which gradually fade to off-white or lemon
Coat
Long hair
Lifespan
14–16 years
Litter size
4–6 puppies

Temperament

The Coton is a playful, affectionate, and intelligent breed.  He is enthusiastic and lively.  The Coton loves people, and as a result, can have separation anxiety.  He is a very vocal breed, grunting and making other noises while playing.  Some Cotons have a habit of jumping up and walking on their hind legs to please people.  Most Cotons love meeting new people, and are very curious in new situations.  However, some Cotons may exhibit shyness or cautiousness in new situations, especially around strangers, but this can be overcome with training.  Generally, Cotons are great with other dogs.

Training

Cotons are easily trained with praise, not punishment.  Early socialization may eliminate shyness being exhibited in new situations.

Care and grooming

Cotons need a short walk every day, and have the endurance to go on a long hike.  Your Coton will also appreciate a play session as often as possible.  The Coton requires daily grooming, and a bath about once a month.

Shedding

Low; the cottony coat behaves more like hair than fur.

Health

Coton de Tulear may develop hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and heart murmurs in some lines.  Regular brushing keeps the long coat from matting.

Crosses that include the Coton de Tulear

These hybrid pages list this breed as a parent. Open a name to see the other contributing breed.

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