Coton de Tuléar Information

If you own or are about to buy a Coton, get the total picture, candid Coton de Tulear photos, and no-hype information from top Coton breed authorities.

CHARACTERIZING THE COTON DE TULEAR

by Ruth Weidrick of WindCrest Cottage Cotons

Past President USA Coton de Tulear Club

The ultimate companion dog, the Coton De Tulear is a calm, small, even-tempered dog with a BIG heart!

He's very intelligent, eager to please, bonds strongly to his masters, and easy to train. Always happy and pleasantly entertaining, thrives on being the center of attention and will eagerly seek your undivided attention.  They enjoy human company of all ages and get along well with other animals.

Not a noisy breed and totally non-aggressive, the Coton is very alert to his surroundings and will bark to alert you if there is someone at the door or something you should see about.  Trained or not, they are great little "alert dogs" for the hard of hearing.

The Coton de Tulear is agile and versatile. Cotons can excel in Agility as they are well muscled and love to run. These beautiful, happy, sweet dogs with such loving temperament have also been very successful as Therapy dogs.  Again, love being the center of attention.

Cotons are great little travelers. Their small body makes airline travel quite easy and enjoyable. With an advance reservation for your pet and the use of a Sherpa Bag, you may carry your Coton into the cabin of most airlines.

So, now you think “what could be more perfect”? The Coton comes pretty close for many but is not an appropriate choice for everyone.

What are the Coton's Distinctive Qualities?

Although the Coton De Tulear is very versatile and is an excellent companion, it thrives best in a home where there is someone present at least part of each day. The Coton bonds closely with its masters and does not do well if left alone all day, every day.

The Coton De Tulear is best known for its cotton-like textured coat and WONDERFUL temperament. They are often referred to as “Clownish” and “Anti-Stress” dog.

Coats are oil-free and do not give off a “doggie” order, even when wet. This is a true non-shedding and non-dander coat, making the Coton an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Coton Conformation & Temperament

Some things to know in order to make the right choice.  This small dog stands at about 10 inches tall and weighs an average 10-13 pounds. Cotons can easily enjoy a life span to 15 years or more. The Coton in full coat has a dense, cottony texture, and coat length can grow to an ultimate length of 4 to 6 inches. They create excitement where ever they go. Everyone wants to know, “what kind of a dog is this”?

A full coat requires a commitment of grooming every other day. An active family on the go, many times prefer to shorten or thin the full coat. A puppy-cut will substantially reduce grooming time.

Their temperament should be as equally beautiful. Temperament is nurtured from birth, not all Cotons are created equal. Buyer, do your homework.

Sometimes, searching for a puppy that is immediately available isn’t the best way to get a new dog. You must remember that this new addition to your family will require your care and possible veterinarian care for 15 years or more.

Before you can find the right dog or puppy, you may want to focus on finding the right breeder. You need to research also “ Where Not to Buy Your Coton”. You may have to wait for a litter of puppies to be available, but getting a healthy, well adjusted puppy from a Code of Ethics Breeder will make the wait worthwhile.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

Check to see if the breeder belongs to any dog related organizations? Joining breed clubs is a way for breeders to find out more about their dogs and to work with others to better the breed.

Are any of the breeder's dogs regularly in the show ring? A breeder who shows is trying to create dogs that have the right physical appearance and personalities that sparkle. This means that even pet quality puppies should be nice pets.

Can the breeder give you several references? Don't just take a list of names and numbers and then forget to call them. People who don't have good references count on potential customers to forget to follow through. When you call the references, you may just find out that the breeder has some seriously disappointed pet owners on the reference list.

Your Coton de Tulear’s personality, will be bringing more love, fun, laughter and activity than you can imagine. Your life will be enriched beyond your expectations. Life will never be the same and remember, the Coton is the only relative you get to choose.  Visit Ruth and her Cotons at WindCrest Cottage Cotons.