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Dog Breed

Coton de Tulear

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Coton de Tulear

Origin: Madagascar

Breed Group: Non-Sporting

Physical Characteristics

Size: Small

Height: Male Height: 10–11 inches (25–28 cm), Female Height: 9–10 inches (23–25 cm)

Weight: Male Weight: 9–15 lbs (4–7 kg), Female Weight: 8–13 lbs (3.5–6 kg)

Coat Type: Long, soft, fluffy (cotton-like)

Coat Colors: White (may have slight shadings of gray or tan on ears)

Grooming Needs: High (daily brushing recommended to prevent mats)

Shedding: Low

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Cheerful, affectionate, playful, sociable, intelligent

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate

Health Information

Lifespan: 14–17 years

Common Health Issues: Luxating patella, eye disorders, hip dysplasia, allergies

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality small-breed diet; monitor weight due to small size

Exercise Needs: Moderate – enjoys daily walks and indoor play

Space Requirements: Apartment-suitable; thrives indoors with regular activity

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Very trainable and eager to please; positive reinforcement works best

Good with Children: Yes, friendly and adaptable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, friendly and adaptable

Good with Other Pets: Yes, typically sociable with all animals

Training: Very trainable and eager to please; positive reinforcement works best

Description

The Coton de Tulear is a charming, cheerful companion breed from Madagascar, loved for its fluffy coat and joyful personality. Known as the "Royal Dog of Madagascar," the Coton thrives on human interaction, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs. Their long, cotton-like coat is low-shedding, but it requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. They are intelligent and train easily, responding well to positive reinforcement. With a moderate energy level, they enjoy walks, playtime, and cuddles, but don’t need excessive exercise.

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History

The Coton de Tulear is a small, fluffy dog originating from Madagascar, named after the port city of Tulear (now Toliara) and its cotton-like coat. Its history is intertwined with the island's culture and legends, making it a breed with a fascinating and mysterious past.

Key Points

Origins: The breed's ancestors likely arrived in Madagascar during the 16th or 17th century with sailors who kept small dogs like Maltese as companions or barter items. These dogs interbred with local feral dogs, creating the foundation for the Coton de Tulear.
Development: Over time, the breed adapted to Madagascar's rugged conditions, developing intelligence, resilience, and a strong constitution. Some legends suggest Cotons survived shipwrecks near Tulear and swam ashore, further cementing their presence on the island.
Royal Dog of Madagascar: Ownership of Cotons was restricted to Malagasy nobility, earning them the nickname "Royal Dog of Madagascar." They were pampered companions for elites while maintaining their hardy nature.
Recognition: French tourists discovered Cotons in the 1960s and brought them to Europe, where breeders refined their appearance and coat quality. The breed gained international recognition, including by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1971 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2014.
Today, the Coton de Tulear is cherished worldwide as a companion dog due to its sweet nature and low-maintenance exercise needs. It remains a symbol of Madagascar’s cultural heritage while gaining popularity among families for its hypoallergenic coat and cheerful demeanor.

Dog Breed

Coton de Tulear

Breed Overview

Physical Characteristics

Behavioral Traits

Health Information

Care

Socialization and Training

Description

History

Key Points

Ideal Owner

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