Coton de Tulear
Adult Size: Females 8.5-10.5 inches and 8-11 pounds, Males 10-12 inches and 9-13 pounds.
Breed: Coton de Tulear
Breed Group: FSS (Foundation Stock Service)/Toy

The Coton de Tulear is an FSS (Foundation Stock Service) breed. That means it isn’t recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, but it will be soon. The United States of America Coton de Tulear Club (USACTC), the American Coton Club (ACC) and The Coton de Tulear Club of America (CTCA) are committed to obtaining recognition of the breed as well as preserving and celebrating it. For breed standards, breeders and showers refer to the four different breed standards maintained by the FCI, UKC, CKC and the USACTC.

Despite their small size, the Coton de Tulear can be quite energetic and often requires a daily walk at the minimum. These playful and devoted dogs need regular exercise and lots of love and devotion in order to thrive.

Historically, the breed was originally developed in Madagascar as a companion dog and today it is the official dog of the small, island country. The breed’s ancestors were most likely brought to the region by sailors from Portugal and Spain and are closely linked to the Bichon family.

As a companion dog, the Coton de Tulear warms easily to family members, though can sometimes be overly dependent or shy around new people. Despite their shyness, the Coton de Tulear is very curious and will eventually become comfortable with strangers – especially when rewarded with praise or a bit of petting.

For grooming, the Coton de Tulear’s long coat needs regular, daily brushing and a monthly bath. Because the dogs have long hair, they don’t shed.

In terms of health issues, veterinarians and breeders suggest that you ask about the dog’s risk for progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, dermatomyositis, hypothyroidism and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

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Coton de Tulear - Dogs for Sale