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Embrace Joy with a Coton de Tulear:

Your Heartfelt Companion

Dive into a world where joy leaps on four paws and wags a fluffy tail – meet the Coton de Tulear, your ultimate source of love, affection, and endless fun. Known affectionately as the “anti-depression” dog, a Coton's devotion knows no bounds, offering a living, breathing bundle of stress relief. These “velcro dogs” are famed for their inseparable bond with their owners, always by your side to brighten your day. With their clownish antics and puppet-like charm, Cotons are not just pets; they're joyful companions, sometimes even attempting to “talk” with their unique vocal expressions.

Thriving on human connection, Cotons boast exemplary temperaments and robust health, typically weighing 9-13 pounds and gracing lives for 14 to 18 years. Their luxurious, cotton-soft coats—predominantly white, with potential splashes of black or tri-color—are more than just a delight to touch; they're a hallmark of their breed's unique beauty.

Eager to learn more about these captivating companions? Our website offers an extensive array of resources, from breed standards and ownership essentials to socialization and training guides. Visit our helpful links or educational information section to embark on your journey with a Coton de Tulear.

From Ancient Caravans to Royal Companions:

The Enchanting Journey of the
Coton de Tuléar

The Coton de Tuléar's history is as captivating as its fluffy, cotton-like coat. Originating from an ancient lineage that possibly began in Central Asia, these charming dogs journeyed through the Mediterranean, becoming beloved companions of Roman aristocrats known as "table dogs" or "Meletei." Their evolution continued through breeding with the Barbet, leading to the Barbichon family, ancestors to the modern-day Coton de Tuléar among other Bichons.

These small, white dogs, adored by nobility and sailors alike for their entertaining company and rodent control aboard ships, eventually found their way to Madagascar. Here, they adapted to diverse conditions, from rainforests to arid landscapes, showcasing their resilience and intelligence. Legends of their survival from shipwrecks near Madagascar contribute to the breed's mystical allure, suggesting their arrival on the island was as dramatic as their history.

Initially feral on Madagascar, the Coton de Tuléar thrived, becoming the "Royal Dog of Madagascar." This status was cemented in the 17th century when they charmed their way into the hearts of the Merina tribal monarchy. Despite their wild beginnings, the French colonization of Madagascar saw the Coton become a coveted pet among the nobility, leading to selective breeding that refined the breed into the affectionate, loyal, and resilient companion known and loved today.

The Coton de Tuléar's journey from ancient traveler to cherished companion is a testament to their enduring appeal, captivating personalities, and the rich tapestry of history that surrounds this enchanting breed.

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Unraveling the Charm

Key Features of the Coton de Tulear

01

Hypoallergenic Nature:

The Coton de Tulear shines as an ideal pet for allergy sufferers. Their unique hypoallergenic coat allows those with allergies to enjoy pet ownership without the sneezes and sniffles.

03

Versatile Living Partners:

Remarkably adaptable, Coton de Tulears seamlessly fit into various lifestyles. Whether in cozy apartments or spacious homes, they mingle well with children, strangers, and other pets, making them wonderfully versatile companions.

02

Heartwarming Companionship:

With their deeply affectionate and sociable nature, Cotons thrive on human interaction. They effortlessly build profound connections with their families, bringing joy and playful companionship into every home.

04

Exquisite
Coat:

The hallmark of the Coton de Tulear is undoubtedly its magnificent coat. Soft, fluffy, and resembling cotton, their unique hair (not fur) sets them apart, adding an extra layer of allure to their charming personalities.

What's the Difference?

between Coton de Tulears and other similar small breeds?

The Coton de Tulear distinguishes itself among small dog breeds with its unique blend of characteristics that cater to a wide range of preferences. Boasting a size that strikes the perfect balance between petite and sturdy, male Cotons typically weigh nine to 15 pounds and stand 10-11 inches tall at the shoulder, offering a delightful combination of compactness and substance.

 

What truly sets the Coton apart is its remarkable coat: soft, cotton-like, and maintains a distinctive rectangular silhouette without growing excessively long. This feature not only contributes to their adorable appearance but also highlights the breed's distinctiveness.

Personality-wise, the Coton de Tulear shines with its cheerful and even-tempered nature. These dogs are versatile companions, equally content whether cuddling on your lap or embarking on outdoor adventures like long walks, hikes, or swims. Their high intelligence and love for interaction make them exceptionally trainable and eager to please, ensuring that they seamlessly fit into various family dynamics. The Coton's ability to blend affectionate loyalty with an adventurous spirit makes it a uniquely endearing choice for those seeking a small breed with a large personality and unparalleled charm.

Celebs & Their Cotons

Celebrities Barbara Streisand, Debra Messing, Jane Fonda, Catherine Zeta-Jones,  Debbie and Carrie Fisher, and Glenn Close love their Coton de Tulear dogs because of their sweet nature, humor, unconditional love, and loyalty. For this reason, they take them everywhere-rehearsals, broadway shows, television appearances,
and book signings.

Barbra Streisand's Coton "Sammie" came from the Simply Grand Coton Kennel in Phoenix, AZ; We do not know where any of the other celebrities listed here got their dogs.

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