Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a cute little dog with a fluffy coat and a gregarious demeanor. This breed, which originated on the island of Madagascar, is frequently referred to as the "Royal Dog of Madagascar." They are wonderful companions for both individuals and families because of their upbeat disposition and playful nature.

These dogs are renowned for their intelligence in addition to their cuteness. Because Coton de Tulears are eager to please, training them is easy and enjoyable. They frequently develop close relationships with family members because they love being around humans and thrive on interaction.

They are ideal for both active play and cuddling on the couch because of their playful nature. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain the best possible appearance of their cotton-like fur, but their playful antics and loving disposition make the effort worthwhile. The Coton de Tulear is a charming breed that will win your heart, whether you’re thinking about bringing one into your house or you just want to know more about it.

General characteristics of the breed

The place of origin and an indication of outward signs are combined in the name coton de tulear. Translations for "cotton" include "cotton wool." This illustrates the characteristics of silky white wool. It’s airy, thick, and has a hint of wave. And the name of the city where these dogs were popular was Tulear. Another name for the breed is the Madagascar Bichon.

Coton de Tulear can make a great friend for a teenager or an outstanding companion for an elderly person. This adorable, humorous dog will make you laugh, cheer you up, and be delighted to travel with its owner.

Pros

Coton de Tulear is a canine ornament used indoors. Ideal for families with kids and small apartments. Avoid causing issues with maintenance. There are numerous benefits for these dogs:

• good-natured, not aggressive;
• sociable, cheerful;
• loyal, become attached to the owner;
• easily find a common language with children;
• get along with other pets;
• able to adapt to the character and lifestyle of the owner;
• active, playful;
• smart and quick-witted;
• responsive, sensitive, can determine the mood of a person;
• have an attractive appearance;
• the coat does not shed much, does not smell, does not cause allergies;
• have good health.

Cons

In our nation, these dogs are extremely uncommon. Puppies that are purebred are expensive and hard to find. Additional drawbacks common to the Coton de Tulear and other decorative breeds are as follows:

• need early socialization;
• requires serious grooming – grooming, haircut;
• do not tolerate loneliness well;
• cunning, capable of manipulation;
• often bark loudly.

Breeds similar to the Coton de Tulear

This dog is comparable to other lapdog breeds. Its large dark eyes and unique structure set it apart from them. It feels thick and silky, like cotton wool. It also appears shorter in height despite having the same dimensions because of its somewhat shorter limbs.

Images illustrate how other Coton de Tulear breeds differ from one another:

• Maltese lapdog;

History of origin

Despite being mentioned for the first time in the Middle Ages, the breed is actually quite old. Regarding its origin, specific information is lacking. One account claims that these dogs are descended from lapdogs from Maltese ships that went down close to Madagascar. They started mating with neighborhood small dogs and developed into a new breed.

Aristocrats at the time kept Coton de Tulears because the breed was seen as a symbol of luxury and high standing. She had the royal family as her patron. The impoverished were not allowed to own these lapdogs, which were referred to as "royal dogs." They were respected for their devotion, intelligence, and upbeat demeanor.

Breeders took notice of the snow-white dogs at the close of the 1800s. They started crossing them with Maltese and Bolognese to make them look better. A breed standard known as the Coton de Tulear was created in the 20th century. However, by the middle of the century, it was all but gone.

The breed started to be revived and popularized by enthusiasts. It was formally acknowledged and registered with the FCI in 1971. These dogs gained popularity in the USA and Europe. However, the breed is still uncommon.

Description of appearance

The Coton de Tulear is a tiny canine. Males can reach a wither height of 30 cm, have smaller buttocks, and weigh no more than 7 kg. Despite their small stature, they have a powerful, muscular body. The dogs’ bodies are squat and rectangular, with a harmonious build. The following physical characteristics are specified by the breed standard:

• the head is proportional to the body, the skull is wide, triangular;
• the stop is moderate, the muzzle is not long, the nose is not large, black or brown;
• the jaws are strong, the cheekbones are well developed, the lips are thin, dry;
• the eyes are large, round, dark in color, wide apart;
• the ears are medium in size, set high, hanging down on the sides of the head, almost invisible due to the thick fur;
• the neck is short, without dewlap, the withers are weakly expressed;
• the chest is voluminous, deep, the belly is slightly tucked up;
• the back is muscular, straight, the loin is convex, the croup is sloping;
• the tail is saber-shaped, thick at the base, tapering towards the tip;
• the limbs are straight, muscular, rather short and thick, set parallel;
• the paws are rounded, small, the toes are short;
• movements are free and easy, when jumping the dog pushes off with all four legs;
• the coat is thick, soft and fluffy;
• The color is possible only purely white, small smoky or reddish marks on the muzzle and ears are allowed.

The description of the appearance is enhanced by photos:

Features of character and training

Koton de Tulear is a loyal friend. The dog is incredibly person-focused and dependent on interaction and attention. Always willing to go with the owner, I adore being by his side. Always makes me laugh with his clever antics and pranks. I enjoy playing and protecting kids in particular, and I can also be a nanny. But because a pet grows so small, playing games with it needs to be controlled.

The dog’s loud barking indicates how upset it is. Does not growl or bite. She will run more effectively if she doesn’t like something. It gets along well with other pets, including cats and rodents. Despite being warned, Madagascar bishons do not exhibit aggressive behavior toward strangers. Their ringing bark, mistrust, and sensitive hearing make them excellent guards.

Coton de Tulear are wise and inquisitive. They work diligently, enjoy exploring new areas, and complete cerebral tasks. Instead of forcing themselves, they pay attention to their owners.

These dogs require training and early socialization. It is advised that a puppy begin training at two months old. He needs to get used to a new location, a leash and collar, street noise, and a nickname. He has to become familiar with social norms. Every member of the family needs to follow the same guidelines. Madagascar Bichons are sly and intelligent dogs that pick up manipulation techniques fast.

The primary cues that a pet needs to be aware of are "come," "sit," "no," "stand," "next to," and "place." Members of this breed are highly intelligent and diligent; they can be trained to perform tricks.

Dogs need to be trained in a positive attitude since they can sense people’s emotions well. The primary means of training is affection and encouragement. It is not permitted to yell or use physical force. Because Coton de Tulear are curious, they are open to taking on tasks. They want to please their owner, and many dogs can tell when they are acting inappropriately just by a look. If they misbehave, they will take it well.

A tiny apartment is the perfect place to store Coton de Tulear. Despite being active, this dog is well-behaved at home. It requires two daily walks even though it is simple to train to use a diaper or tray for potty breaks. Walks only need to last forty minutes at most. However, you must run and play with your pet. Members of the breed enjoy going on trips, playing with other dogs, and spending time in the outdoors. Wearing warm clothes outside is advised in the winter.

Fluffy white wool needs to be handled carefully. It falls off and gets dirty quickly. Grass blades, debris, and tangles become lodged in it. In the event that the dog is not shown, a clean haircut can be given. She won’t get too hot in the summer and taking care of her fur will be simpler as a result.

Representatives of the breed should follow these straightforward but regular hygiene procedures:

• comb the coat daily with a comb with long teeth and a brush;
• use a slicker brush when combing twice a year during shedding;
• bathe 1-2 times a month with a special shampoo for white coat;
• have a haircut several times a year (if the dog does not participate in exhibitions);
• shorten the hair on the forehead of all dogs so that it does not get into the eyes, on the muzzle, paws, under the tail – this makes it easier to maintain cleanliness;
• if necessary, treat the hair under the eyes and whiskers with special bleaching agents;
• wash the paws after walks, and the muzzle after eating;
• clean the ears once a week and wipe the eyes with special lotions;
• periodically brush the teeth with veterinary paste to prevent the formation of tartar;
• trim the claws with a claw cutter as they grow.

Nutrition

You must pay close attention to the amount and quality of food you give your pet. Given its propensity for obesity, coton de Tulear shouldn’t be overfed. A mature dog receives two meals per day. 400–800 grams of food are consumed each day. The dog’s weight, activity level, and season all play a role.

Feeding is appropriate for natural products or premium dry food. You may only combine them; bringing food from your table or dishes that have been seasoned with salt and spices is not permitted. For small breed decorative dogs, the food needs to be super premium. They are supplemented with vitamins and minerals and contain all the nutrients required by the animal. Beets and dyes should be excluded from the mixture as they have the potential to change the coat’s color.

At least 45% of the pet’s diet when fed naturally should consist of lean meat. Cereals, veggies, and fermented milk products make up the remainder. You can give sea fish, fruits, and eggs several times a week. Greens, vitamin complexes, and vegetable oil are beneficial additions to food.

Health

The Coton de Tulear is a healthy decorative dog, in contrast to many others. Representatives of the breed typically live 12–13 years, but under ideal circumstances, they may live 15–16 or even 18 years. The following illnesses can occasionally occur:

• allergies;
• digestive disorders;
• eye pathologies;
• liver diseases;
• joint and spine diseases;
• urolithiasis.

Which particular features or points about the Coton de Tulear would you like to highlight at the end?

The Coton de Tulear is a cute and cuddly dog breed distinguished by its lively disposition and fluffy coat. These tiny dogs, who are native to Madagascar, make wonderful companions because they love spending time with their families and interacting with others. Coton de Tulears are excellent companions for both individuals and families, adding happiness and coziness to any home with their low shedding coat and friendly temperament.

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