The Coton de Tulear: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The Coton de Tuléar originates from the Tuléar region, in the south of Madagascar. Its ancient history remains uncertain, but its relationship with various bichons transported aboard the merchant ships of French colonists in the 16th century is generally accepted. The first specimen was brought back to France in 1977, while the breed standard had been recognized as early as 1970.

Small dog low on legs, well built and muscular, the Coton de Tuléar has a body slightly longer than it is tall. Seen from above, its head is triangular, with a domed skull and a muzzle shorter than the skull. Its round, dark and sparkling eyes go with fine, drooping and triangular ears. Its coat is mainly white, sometimes with grey or fawn shades on the ears. Its long, fine, cottony and sometimes slightly wavy hair is its distinctive feature. Its tail, set low, curls over the back when it is excited.

The Coton de Tuléar is affectionate, cheerful, playful and spontaneous. Very attached to those close to him, he particularly appreciates the company of his owner and children. He is generally sociable with other animals, but may remain wary of strangers. His intelligence, his curiosity and his mischievous temperament make him an endearing companion, who nevertheless copes poorly with solitude.

Very adaptable, the Coton de Tuléar can live just as well in an apartment as in a house if its daily walks are not neglected. It likes to play, go for walks and bathe. Its physical exercise remains moderate, but the presence of its loved ones and daily interactions are essential to its balance.

Intelligent and receptive, the Coton de Tuléar quickly learns commands and retains them for a long time. Its charm and cunning nevertheless require consistent training and a certain firmness. A positive method based on rewards, games, petting and praise is particularly well suited to this breed.

The purchase price varies notably depending on the breeder, the lineage, the pedigree, the health screenings carried out and the dog's intended purpose. You must also plan for regular expenses related to food, veterinary care and the demanding maintenance of the coat.

The Coton de Tuléar generally enjoys excellent health and a solid constitution. Particular attention must nevertheless be paid to its skin, eyes, joints and ears, as certain conditions are reported in the breed.

The Coton de Tuléar needs a complete, high-quality diet, adapted to its age, weight, size, state of health and activity level.

The name of the breed refers to the city of Tuléar, today Toliara, in the south of Madagascar, as well as to the very soft and cottony texture of its coat. The Coton de Tuléar is also sometimes called simply Coton or Cotie.