Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear originated in Madagascar and is named after the port city of Tulear (now Toliara). These dogs likely descended from small white dogs that swam ashore after a shipwreck and were later bred by nobles, eventually earning the nickname “Royal Dog of Madagascar.” They remained a closely guarded treasure of the island until the 20th century when they began appearing in Europe and North America.

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The Coton de Tulear is a small, sturdy companion dog with a hallmark soft, cottony coat and expressive dark eyes.

• Weight: 8–15 lb (3.5–7 kg)
• Height: 9–11 in (23–28 cm)
• Coat Type: Long, dense, cotton-like (not silky)
• Coat Colors: White (primary), sometimes with light grey, tan, or champagne markings
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Fluffy appearance, black-rimmed eyes, slightly arched back, curved plume tail over the back

Despite the lack of shedding, the Coton’s coat requires consistent care to prevent matting.

• Brushing: Daily to every other day
• Bathing: Every 2–4 weeks
• Trimming: Optional, but tidy-up trims around the feet/face help maintain cleanliness
• Ears: Clean weekly to prevent buildup
• Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks
• Teeth: Brush 2–3× per week

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The Coton enjoys playtime and short walks, but doesn’t need intense physical activity.

• Daily Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Activities: Walks, indoor games, light agility
• Suitability: Excellent for apartments and condos
• Energy Level: Moderate

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These dogs are smart, eager to please, and sometimes a bit silly—making training enjoyable.

• Method: Positive reinforcement; gentle tone works best
• Focus Areas: Socialization, housebreaking, basic manners
• Challenge: Can be slow to housetrain; consistency is key
• Enrichment: Enjoys learning tricks and participating in games

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A healthy diet supports coat quality and energy levels.

• Food Type: High-quality dry kibble or fresh food diet
• Daily Quantity: ¾ – 1¼ cups per day, split into 2 meals
• Feeding Schedule: Morning and evening
• Diet Advice: Watch weight—tendency to become picky or overfed as lap dogs

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Choose ethical breeders or rescue groups that focus on health and proper socialization.

• Breeders: Ask for OFA/CERF certifications and transparent health history
• Rescue Options: Look for breed-specific rescues in Canada and North America
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder listings, Coton de Tulear Canada

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A relatively healthy breed, though some hereditary conditions exist.

• Common Issues: Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, eye disorders (PRA), allergies
• Life Expectancy: 14–17 years
• Recommended Testing: Patellas, hips, cardiac evaluation, eye exams

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Are Coton de Tulears good apartment dogs?
Yes—small, adaptable, and happy indoors with regular play and interaction.

Do Cotons shed?
Very little. They’re considered low-shedding but still need frequent brushing.

Are Coton de Tulears hypoallergenic?
Yes—many allergy sufferers do well with Cotons, but individual responses vary.

How often should you groom a Coton de Tulear?
Brush at least 3–4× weekly; daily is ideal to prevent tangles and mats.

Are Cotons good with kids and other pets?
Yes—affectionate and playful, they typically get along well with all family members.

Do Coton de Tulears bark a lot?
They can be vocal when excited or left alone too long; training helps reduce excess barking.

Coton de Tulear vs Bichon Frise—what’s the difference?
Cotons have cotton-like coats vs the Bichon’s curly puffs, and tend to be quieter and more reserved.

Are Cotons hard to potty train?
Some can be stubborn—consistency and routine help significantly.

What’s special about the Coton’s coat?
It's soft and dry to the touch, like cotton—not hair or fur—making it unique among dog breeds.

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