Quick Facts

• Weight: 9 – 18 pounds
• Height: 9 – 13 inches

The Look of a Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear has a small frame covered in a medium-length, “cottony” coat. Its eyes, lips and nose are dark. Its triangular ears are set high, and its body is slightly longer than tall. The Coton de Tulear has a plumed tail that carries high or over the back. Overall, the Coton de Tulear has a lively and outgoing look.

Traits

• Alert
• Happy
• Affectionate
• Intelligent
• Eager to please

Ideal Human Companion

• Retirees
• City-dwellers
• Families

What They Are Like to Live With

Around the home, the Coton de Tulear is fun, friendly and very affectionate. Full of heart and humor, the Coton makes a great companion for the young and old alike. All it needs is exercise, attention and the occasional treat to keep it in good spirits. The Coton de Tulear may ultimately be an indoor dog, but it loves to play outdoors in any kind of weather. Tough and hardy, the Coton can also be protective. It makes an excellent, compact (and cuddly) watchdog.

Things You Should Know

The Coton de Tulear can live as long as 18 years. This is a healthy breed, generally free of genetic health issues. They are ideal apartment dogs, but remember that they enjoy the outdoors—especially swimming. Take them out for good long romps in the park whenever possible.

Coton de Tulear History

The exact origins of the Coton de Tulear are unknown, but some believe they descended from dogs that survived an ancient shipwreck off the coast of Madagascar. According to legend, these little white dogs swam to shore and eventually mated with local terriers to create the Coton de Tulear. However, the more likely scenario is that their ancestors were brought to Madagascar by sailors during the 15th century.