Coton de Tulear
Description
The Coton de Tulear is a small, lively dog breed known for its cheerful demeanor and cotton-like coat. Originating from Madagascar, this breed was named after the port city of Tulear, where it was first developed. The Coton de Tulear is often recognized for its affectionate nature and strong bond with its family. They typically weigh between 8 to 13 pounds and stand about 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Their gentle, playful disposition makes them excellent companions, particularly for families and individuals seeking a small, friendly dog.
Personality
Coton de Tulears are known for their friendly, affectionate, and outgoing personalities. They are highly social dogs that enjoy being around people and other pets. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Their playful nature means they often retain a puppy-like demeanor into adulthood. They are known to be adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive enough attention and exercise. Coton de Tulears are also known for their alertness, making them good watchdogs despite their small size.
Care Requirements
Coton de Tulears require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat, which can mat if not properly cared for. Brushing several times a week is recommended, with more frequent grooming necessary during shedding seasons. Bathing should be done as needed, using gentle dog shampoo to keep their coat clean and healthy. They are relatively active dogs, so daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are necessary to ensure their overall health. Additionally, socialization and training should start early to encourage good behavior and prevent excessive barking, which some individuals may exhibit.
Suitable For:
- Families with children as they are very good with kids
- Households with other dogs as they get along well with their kind
- First-time dog owners due to their high trainability
- People who enjoy playing with their dogs as they are quite playful
- People living in apartments or quiet neighborhoods as they are not prone to barking
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Those looking for a highly protective or guard dog due to their average protectiveness
- Those expecting a very high-energy dog as they have moderate energy levels
- People who prefer a more independent dog as they thrive on companionship
- Those who prefer a more vocal dog as they have a low tendency to bark
- People who are not willing or able to provide daily exercise and mental stimulation as they are moderately playful and intelligent
Physical Characteristics
The Coton de Tulear has a distinctive, long, fluffy coat that resembles cotton, which is where their name comes from. Their coat is typically soft, dense, and can be either straight or slightly wavy. It comes in various colors, including white, cream, and combinations with light gray or black markings. They have round, dark eyes that give them an expressive and sweet appearance. Their ears are long and hang down, often covered with long hair, and their tails are carried high and often curled over their back. The breed's small, sturdy build contributes to their overall charm.
Height
Male: 10" - 11"
Female: 10" - 11"
Weight
Male: 9 - 15 lbs
Female: 8 - 13 lbs
Life Expectancy
15 - 19 years
Breed Profile
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Coton de Tulear hails from Madagascar and gets its name from the city of Tulear in Madagascar. This breed is also known as the "Royal Dog of Madagascar," due to its history of being owned by the Nobles of Madagascar, and it is even considered the national dog of the country.
Known for their cotton-like coat, the Coton de Tulear has a soft, fluffy, and extremely white coat, which is hypoallergenic and non-shedding. This feature makes them a great choice for people with allergies.
The Coton de Tulear is a highly sociable breed with a unique behavior known as the "Coton spin." When they become excited or happy, they tend to spin in circles, which is a charming trait that brings a lot of joy to their owners.
While they may not be as famous as some breeds for their roles in history, a Coton de Tulear made headlines in 2013 when it was given as a gift to the First Family of Finland. Named Lennu, the dog became something of a sensation due to its distinctive smile and playful demeanor.
Culturally, the Coton de Tulear is deeply loved and celebrated in Madagascar. The breed even appears on a Malagasy banknote, symbolizing its importance and popularity in the country.