Coton De Tulear

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Coton De Tulear

Coton De Tulear Characteristics

Size:
Grooming Needs:
Exercise Needs:
Good With Dogs:
Watchdog Ability:

Coton De Tulear Breed Information

Breed Group: Foundation Stock Service

Weight: 12 - 15 lbs

Height: 10 - 12 inches

Color(s): White or white and black. White is preferred.

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Coton De Tulear

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Overview

The Coton originated in the island of Madagascar in the early 20th century. They are still considered to be a rare breed in the United States, where there are only perhaps 5,000 total. The American Kennel Club does not yet recognize the Coton, and as such, there is no uniform standard.

Character

The Coton de Tulear is an adaptable and boisterous companion. They thrive on being an integral part of the family, and do not like to be left alone for an extended length of time. They are content to be on your lap or at your feet, but are also instantly ready for play or a ride in the car.

Temperament

The Coton de Tulear is alert and territorial. They form strong attachments to both Master and family. They will alert to danger by barking, but only when it is necessary. They are extremely intelligent and love all of the attention they can get. The Coton is very social and enjoys outings and experiences. They get along well with other pets and children.

Care

The Coton requires frequent brushing and combing to keep the coat free of matting. Special attention must be given to the undercoat. They may also be given a cropped cut. This breed has no significant genetic diseases built into it due to its rarity. Breeders have been very careful to keep the Coton line pure.

Coat

Coton is French for cotton. Hence, this breeds coat is fluffy and cottony, not silky. There is a long topcoat that is dry, dirt shedding, and non-oily. Most but not all Cotons will have a fine, thin, downy undercoat.

Training

The Coton de Tulear is bright and intelligent, but may be slow to mature. They may be difficult to housebreak. They do well with early socialization and obedience training. They require firm, consistent, and loving direction and do very well with a lot of praise and direction.

Activity

This breed is an indoor companion. They do not require high levels of exercise, but do need a short walk every day. They also appreciate play sessions as often as possible. They adjust and adapt well to apartment, condo, and urban living. They have the capability and endurance for long hikes.

Ask a Question Coton De Tulear Questions & Answers

QUESTION: Why is there such a big price range for Coton De Tulear dogs? Is an 1800.00 dog better then a 400.00 one?

Anonymous - 1/26/2012 7:56:23 PM

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QUESTION: What is the longest period of time Cotons can be left alone? Thanks

Anonymous - 1/7/2012 11:36:47 PM

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My coton stays home by herself for 6 to 8 hours and is very good. We have no problems. She is wonderful

Anonymous - 1/10/2012 6:57:50 PM

QUESTION: Does the female Coton De Tulear loose her hair after she has her litter?

Anonymous - 11/30/2011 5:54:05 PM

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QUESTION: Will a Coton De Tulear survive in the philippines? With a 35 degrees temp ? or less

Anonymous - 9/5/2011 5:26:23 AM

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where did you buy your cotton de tulear dog in the philippines?

Anonymous - 2/2/2012 10:19:43 PM

Yes, they do. I'm from the Philippines and I own a 2-yr old Coton. For its size, they are a very hardy breed.

Anonymous - 9/7/2011 5:57:24 AM

QUESTION: What are the inherent medical problems that may be a part of the Coton breed?

Anonymous - 7/27/2011 4:39:54 PM

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Because the Coton de Tulear is relatively rare and those with integrity that breed them are striving to keep this lovely breed pure, there are not any inherent health issues. According to our vet, most small dogs have patella and eye issues. Good breeders take the time and care to have their dogs health checked for these issues as well as for thyroid, hip, heart and other issues that might concern us. Those of us who care for preserving the Coton's health will not breed their adult dog if any of these health issues pose a problem.

heysuuz - 10/16/2011 3:29:12 PM

QUESTION: Do Coton De Tulear's bark a lot?

Anonymous - 7/14/2011 6:04:57 PM

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Our Cotons are wonderful watch dogs. They bark when there is someone at the door, but they quickly calm down. They are not annoying barkers.

heysuuz - 10/16/2011 3:30:36 PM

Actually, Cotons do, especially when there's a new visitor or a stranger that comes to the house. Because of this, cotons are great watchdogs.

Anonymous - 9/7/2011 6:02:36 AM

It might depend on the specific dog, but my coton barks A LOT.

Anonymous - 9/6/2011 6:44:00 PM

No. And when my Coton does bark it is a great big sound and always makes me laugh.

Anonymous - 8/12/2011 3:35:59 PM

QUESTION: I have a three year old son and I understand that Coton De Tulear's can be protective but can that turn into aggression or jealousy towards my child very easily with this breed?

Anonymous - 7/6/2011 3:42:07 AM

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We have four children and two grandchildren. Our home is always full of activity and our Cotons adapt well and have never shown any aggression toward anyone. They are bred to be you and your families best pal! They seem to know their place and are very kind dogs.

heysuuz - 10/16/2011 3:34:55 PM

You are more likely to get licked to death by a coton. I have two and neither has been an issue with any of my 4 children or the tons of other children who have come to my house.

Anonymous - 7/6/2011 2:13:48 PM

QUESTION: Do coton de tulear's shed?

Anonymous - 4/19/2011 7:33:21 AM

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the coton is actually a hypo allergeni dog much like a maltese... they do not shed so unless you are allergic to the sweat like my mother then they should not affect your allergies

Anonymous - 7/6/2011 3:50:48 AM

Because Coton's have hair and not fur they don't shed like other dogs. They lose their hair much like a human does. When they are brushed or bathed you will find hair in/on the brush. Also, when they are puppies they tend to "blow" their puppy coat at about 7-9 mos of age and you will find little tufts of hair on the floor. But other than that you should not have a problem. They are also truly hypo-allergenic!

heysuuz - 5/10/2011 5:35:00 PM

No, coton de tulear's do NOT shed....

Anonymous - 4/23/2011 12:07:16 PM

QUESTION: Are Coton De Tulear's water dogs?

Anonymous - 4/17/2011 3:48:31 PM

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Well, yes and no...sometimes coton de tulear's are, sometimes they aren't.

Anonymous - 4/23/2011 12:07:45 PM

QUESTION: Hi, Is there such a thing as a toy, runt of the litter coton de tulear puppy? As my daughter has one, and I'd like one, but am having a hard time finding a real small one? Thank You in advance..Irene

Anonymous - 3/29/2011 3:59:23 PM

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Yes, there is definitely different size Cotons. They range in size from about 7lbs to 18 lbs. Our female, who weights 11 lbs, had 4 pups last fall and gave birth to 2 very small Cotons who are now only about 8 lbs. The other two Cotons are 11 lbs. It's important to ask the breeder what size the parents are. This will help in determining the size of the puppies.

heysuuz - 5/10/2011 8:38:16 PM

QUESTION: I have a coton maltese mix, and when it comes to potty training she is soo stubborn!! It's almost like whenever I don't give her attention she rebells and will pee/poop all over, any ideas? Also, any idea why she will not leave my 3 and a half month old baby alone? She always wants to be by him or on him.

Anonymous - 3/23/2011 1:24:54 PM

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Mixed breeds are hard to analyze because they have characteristics from both breeds. When properly house trained the Coton will let you know he/she needs to go outside. All you have to do is pay attention. Can't help with the Maltese half! Cotons are great with babies and children. Do not allow him/her to put its weight on the baby.

tweed - 3/23/2011 8:47:42 PM

QUESTION: My Coton is stubborn and mean. He's fear aggressive, and while I know most of that is my fault, he doesn't seem to want to make me happy at all! If I try to stop him from barking or biting a stranger, he'll nip me instead!

Anonymous - 3/20/2011 1:38:26 AM

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The Coton de tulear is the best companion dog a person could have they are friendly playful and not a mean breed at all.If you know you are at fault and aren't giving this sweet little dog the proper care and training it needs please give it up to a rescue shelter they will find a wonderful home. Cotons are not aggressive dogs at all I believe you are abusing this poor little dog and you are the one who is mean, stubborn and aggressive. This dog fears you and tries to protect itself from abuse. You don't deserve this dog or any dog in my opinion.

Anonymous - 9/29/2011 1:39:24 AM

Cotons are kinda suspicious of strangers, but all they do is bark. They are pretty harmless and very playful especially to young children.

Anonymous - 9/7/2011 6:04:57 AM

Cotons are not stubborn or mean. They personify gentle and sweet and are always alert and sensitive to the owner's moods. I suspect you have hurt this dog. He is small and does not bite unless he has been harmed and baited. You should seek a rescue and surrender him asap. Otherwise you will no doubt continue to take your problems out on this dog . Get help for the dog , now.

Anonymous - 8/12/2011 3:39:36 PM

I agree with "tweed"....this is not common behavior of a Coton. A good trainer is imperative.

heysuuz - 5/10/2011 8:39:39 PM

QUESTION: I think the Coton De Tulear is a great dog but chairly is a little crazy when he is wet.

Anonymous - 3/15/2011 9:13:58 PM

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If you are talking about after giving your Coton De Tulear's a bath and how they like to run around and dry themselves on the furniture and carpet, yes it looks crazy but I think it is more being playful.

tweed - 3/23/2011 8:43:29 PM

QUESTION: I am going to buy a cotton de tulear but would like to find one medium size with longer legs. Is there such a thing or should I be looking for a cotton mix?

Anonymous - 1/5/2011 8:28:36 PM

Respond to Question

There are two different lines of the Coton de Tulear. The Euro line and the Malagasy line. The Malagasy line of Cotons generally has the longer legs. They also maintain their color, while the Euro line's color fades to white, light tan or gray as they lose their puppy coat.

heysuuz - 5/10/2011 8:43:22 PM

There are two types of Cotons and we breed both. There are the longer legged shorter body version and the shorter legged longer body version. Both are purebreds and both maintain the Coton characteristics.

tweed - 3/23/2011 8:50:39 PM

QUESTION: My sister insists that Cotons are a mixed breed.... i.e. a Bichon Frise and a Maltese... Is there ANY truth to this whatsoever? They, indeed, do resemble a very well brushed out Bichon. Thank you for your reply.

Anonymous - 12/19/2010 1:32:36 PM

Respond to Question

A Coton De Tulear dog is more closely related to the Havenese dog by dna. They have been around for hundreds of years, the offspring of , it is thought, dogs from pirate ships and the native dog of the island. Later, the French reserved the dog for themselves and bred what we now call the Coton, which is French for cotton. They are Bichon size but the natures of the dogs are different.

Anonymous - 8/12/2011 3:42:07 PM

No, the Coton is a recognized breed with many registries. They may look a bit like a Bichon and Maltese, but their luxurious coat (hair) and their endearing qualities set them apart from all other dogs. Once you own one, you will see the "magic" of the Coton de tulear.

heysuuz - 5/10/2011 8:46:14 PM

No. Coton de Tulears are their own pure breed. They can't possibly be a mix of a Bichon Frise and a Maltese - the Coton is bigger than both. You can't take to 7 lb dogs and get a 12-14 lb one...They resemble the Bichon Frise (as does the Maltese, Havanese, and Bolognese) because they are all in the Bichon breed family. The Frise is just one kind of Bichon.

Anonymous - 1/2/2011 10:30:54 PM

QUESTION: What is the best way to pottty train a Coton De Tulear?

Anonymous - 11/16/2010 8:39:52 PM

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Keep to a routine. Take this dog out every two to three hours and praise it a lot when it goes. I find the dog will look to me to see if it is ok to stay out, and when he does I know he is going to have a bm, which is a sniffing process that takes a few minutes more before he is comfortable. Just keep the routine, and your Coton De Tulear will do the rest.

Anonymous - 8/12/2011 3:44:17 PM

Cotons are awesome to house train and retrain because all they want to do is make you happy. So take them to where you want them to go and praise them when they go there. If you have an accident take them and the accident to where you want them to go put it down let them smell it there and PRAISE them. They will remember the "BIG DEAL" of getting all the praise there and they smell where they go.

lovemaltesedogs - 12/7/2010 3:08:54 PM

Coton de tulears are absolutely not stubborn! They are intelligent and eager to please.

Anonymous - 12/2/2010 7:30:34 PM

It is a very difficult task as Coton De Tulears are stubborn. Be patient and reward them for good behavior. My coton was taught to ring a bell when she has to go outside.

Anonymous - 12/1/2010 11:14:42 AM

QUESTION: Does a Coton De Tulear shed?

Anonymous - 10/14/2010 8:34:16 PM

Respond to Question

I have a Coton De Tulear and mine doesn't because they have hair versus fur. There is some shedding after haircuts but it's like shedding after a human haircut.

Anonymous - 10/22/2010 7:53:16 AM

QUESTION: what's the best dog food for a cotton?

Anonymous - 9/17/2010 12:49:36 PM

Respond to Question

Again, I agree with tweed! We use only Life's Abundance! Great food!

heysuuz - 10/16/2011 3:38:27 PM

Life's Abundance is the best I've found as it doesn't stain the coton's muzzle areas over time like many foods that have tomatos, pumpkin and beets in the mix do.

tweed - 3/23/2011 8:38:53 PM

Halo, salmon flavored is a big hit with my coton! Tried a number of different brands.

Anonymous - 3/19/2011 9:39:01 AM

I am feeding my dogs Life Abundant and it is a great food

dihart - 9/20/2010 3:53:45 PM

QUESTION: What are the breed standards of the coton?

Anonymous - 9/16/2010 8:15:59 AM

Respond to Question

The Coton de Tulear Club of America is the CTCA. Visit www.cotonclub.org to review the Malagasy Coton de Tulear Breed Standard.

Anonymous - 5/23/2011 12:37:05 PM

Visit the American Coton Club for more information on the Rare Breed Coton de Tulear. http://www.americancotonclub.com

Anonymous - 4/18/2011 1:22:23 PM

There is a complete list of Coton standards as per the Coton Club of America at this website: www.usactc.org/breed_standard.shtml I tried to copy and paste the info but for some reason cannot.

dihart - 9/20/2010 3:53:14 PM

If you are looking for Coton De Tulear puppies for sale from reputable Coton De Tulear breeders or to adopt a Coton De Tulear from a Coton De Tulear rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Coton De Tulear puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Coton De Tulear puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.

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