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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear (pronounced Ca-tawn de Too-lee-ahr) looks like a cotton puff
of hair. Their coats have long hair lying over the body ? from the topline to the
feet. It is rather puffy, not lying flat. The hair around the muzzle is usually
shorter. The coat colors are usually black and white or plain white with yellow
markings on the ears. The skull is egg-shaped and has convex sides. The length of
the skull is slightly more than the muzzle. The top of the muzzle is straight and
the sides parallel. The small nose is usually black or brown. The round eyes are
dark in color and the rim of the eyes should be dark. The teeth meet in a scissors
or level bite. The ears are set high and wide on the head and give a triangular
appearance. The neck is medium length without dewlaps. The chest is abundant, going
down to the Coton elbows. They carry their tails low with the tip curved up when
they are at rest and pointed towards the neck when they are on the move.
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Temperament
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To the Coton de Tulear, their owner is king! This playful breed will use any trick
or tactic to get their owner's attention. They love to be around other family members,
children and other pets. This lively and playful breed has been known to walk on
their back legs. They are easy to housebreak. Their only purpose is to please and
be a charming companion. This very vocal breed makes a good guard dog. They need
to be socialized at an early age to prevent them from becoming timid.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 10-11" ; Weight: 9-13 lbs.
Female Height 9-10" ; Weight: 8-11 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Coton de Tulear is a healthy breed with no known health problems or concerns.
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Living Conditions
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The Coton will do well living in an apartment. They are active indoors and will
do fine with a small yard. They do best when they are not left alone for long periods
of time.
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Exercise
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They are relatively active indoors and play will take care of a lot of their exercise
needs; however, dogs who do not get a daily walk may display behavior problems.
This breed also loves to jump and walk on their hind legs.
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Life Expectancy
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About 14-16 years
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Grooming
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This breed's coat requires daily brushing to prevent it from becoming matted. Monthly
grooming sessions are recommended. They shed little or no hair.
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Origin
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The Coton de Tulear was named after the French word for cotton, coton,
as well as the main city in Madagascar, Tulear. During the 17th century, it was
a criminal offense to own a Coton unless one was of royal distinction. The breed
was known as the Royal Dog of Madagascar. They are related to the Bichon and the
Bolognese. They are recognized by the UKC and have been accepted for recording in
the AKC Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Non-Sporting, UKC Companion Dog
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