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© 2009 Calicocotons

The Coton de Tulear is a rare and ancient pure bred originating from Madagascar. It has a small but sturdy frame and stands around 10 to 12 inches tall. Their weight ranges from 4-6kg in males and 3.5-5kg in females.

Their most notable feature is their coat which is medium to long in length and is a fluffy cottony texture that should feel dry to touch. It is described as more like human hair so doesn’t have the normal doggy dander and is non shedding so Cotons are ideal pets for allergy sufferers. Their coat does require regular grooming especially around the 9-18 months stage as it goes through a change when they start to reach maturity and requires extra time and lots of attention. For this reason it’s much kinder to get your puppy used to having regular grooming sessions. This can also be great for bonding with each other so when you find the coat becoming more difficult to manage it should be far less stressful for both of you if your Coton is used to the routine of regular grooming...and luckily this stage won’t last too long and soon a simple 5 minute brush once a day is all that most of them will require to keep them soft and tangle free.

Cotons are incredibly affectionate and are happy as long as they’re close to you. Whether I’m pegging out the washing or watching the TV you can guarantee they’re by my side. They can suffer great anxiety if left alone for hours on end. For this reason if you are someone who is away from home for long periods then this breed is probably not for you.

They make fantastic family pets as they get on well with children and other animals. Cotons are very alert and will certainly let you know if you have a visitor. Boo and Cass always tell the post-man off for pushing his rubbish through our letter-box every morning...the cheek of it!

They have very endearing personalities and will always keep you entertained...they are affectionately known as clown dogs. One of their many traits is to walk on their hind legs...this is not something they’re taught to do it’s just part of their enchanting character. Also dancing is a favourite past-time for them, especially when I’m near the treat cupboard!

Cotons are considered to be one of the healthiest breed of dogs with no known health defects and have an average life span of around 16 years. They are not considered to be outside dogs and require little exercise. Having said that all dogs love to go for walks and Cotons are no exception. They’ll always be very enthusiastic to go out with you when the W word is mentioned.

All in all the Coton de Tulear make excellent companions, they’re loyal, intelligent, fun-loving and have their own quirky characteristics that make them exceptionally unique and leave you wanting more.