More About Cotons

We receive notifications from PetFinder when new Cotons are rescued and put up for adoption. On one of the newest entries, the Rescue Organization posted some new information about the Coton de Tulear. I thought it was interesting and wanted to share more about this remarkable little dog with you all:

"Bichon dogs from Tenerife were brought to Madagascar and nearby islands on trade ships, probably before the 17th century. From these original imports came the Colon de Reunion, an extinct breed once known on Reunion Island. The descendants of the Coton de Reunion became established near the city of Tulear, Madagascar, and developed into the breed known as the Coton de Tulear.

The Coton (French for cotton) became a favorite of the merina, the French nobility on the island during the colonial days. In fact, prior to the 20th century, it was considered criminal for a commoner to own a Coton. This canine social climber soon took on the title of the 'Dog of Royalty' and, even today, only socially prominent Malagasy own a Tulear.


This breed is devoted to its masters, wanting always to be in their presence and trying its best to please. Because of these traits, the Coton requires little in the way of discipline to create a fine companion. He is a dog only for a house pet, as he is so happy and friendly that he will not defend himself. Like the other bichon dogs,-however, he is alert and intelligent and will inform his master of unusual events. As long as he is primarily a house dog, he adapts well to almost any environment or climate. The breed is healthy and vigorous despite its small size, and requires only a bit of regular brushing to keep it handsome. One of their most endearing traits is a tendency to jump and walk on their hind legs.

Like the other bichons, the hair needs regular grooming to keep the dogs looking their cuddly best. Shedding on all the bichons is minimal and an advantage to allergic owners. The Coton's expression is ''enquiring and adoring.'

They achieved FCI recognition in 1970 and are being fostered by the Coton de Tulear Club of America. They are still rare throughout the world."

A New Leash on Life, Olmsted Falls, OH

They have a website if you want to take a look. And of course PetFinder is all about rescue, so I'd encourage you to check there and of course, here on Dogster if you are looking for a forever friend to adopt and love. Shalom to you all this holiday season.

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