Coton de Tulear
Modified: 30-11--0001 00:00:00
The Coton de Tulear is a small dog, with a medium-length, flowing coat in many different colours. They weigh about 4.5 to 7kg (9 to 14lb) and are between 20 and 30cm (8.5 to 12in) in height.
Appearance and Standard
Skull is slightly rounded and wider than it is long. The muzzle is straight and shorter than the skull. The nose is black, brown tolerated but black preferred. The lips are tight and of the same colour as the nose. The teeth are in a scissor bite or pincer bite. The eyes are round, dark in colour and wide set. Expression should be lively, intelligent, bright, and merry. Ears are triangular and set high, the leather of the ear should be thin. Neck is strong, without a dewlap and slightly arched. Chest is well developed and reaches below the elbows. The feet are small and arched. The back should be strong and slightly arched.The body is of moderate lengh and should have a moderate tuck up. The loin is muscular and not too long. Hind legs are strong and straight, hind feet similar to the front feet. Dewclaws may be removed. The tail is low set and tapering, carried over the back when in motion or excited, between the legs otherwise.
History
The Coton's ancestors were likely brought to Madagascar in the 16th century from Spain and Portugal and it is named after the port city of Tulear. The Coton is probably related to the Bichon family of dogs, most closely to the Bichon Tenerife. They arrived at the port of Tulear in the late 1600's, probably after catching passage on mercantile ships sailing out of Europe. This small, friendly dog caught the fancy of the Merina royalty, and was bred into what is known today as the Coton de Tulear. Today the breed is increasing in popularity, but the dog is still largely unknown among the general population which mistakes it for a Malteste Terrier. It has its strongest presence in North America, and is supported by several kennel clubs.
Temperament
The Coton is a playful, affectionate, intelligent companian breed. It loves ITS people and as a result will suffer seperation anxiety. It loves life and is enthusiastic and lively. It is trainable with praise, but will not respond well to punishment.
Care
The Coton has a long, non-shedding coat which needs a thorough grooming once or twice a week. They need daily walking, and will appreciate a play session as often as possible.
Health
The Coton is a healthy breed; being fairly rare it has not been overbred or bred in puppy mills and as a result there are no genetic diseases that are prevalent in the breed. They are long-lived and most often live between 14 and 18 years.
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