Coton de Tulear Puppies for Sale

Country of Origin:

Madagascar

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Breed Characteristics

Average Size: Small

Average Lifespan: 15-19 years

Kid/Pet Friendly: Sometimes

Registry: aca,akc

Activity Level: moderate

Shedding Level: low

Grooming Level: high

Trainability: high

Good For Novice Owners: high

Adaptability: high

Prey Drive: low

Watchdog: chill

Breed Information

Overview

The Coton de Tuléar is the quintessential happy-go-lucky pooch. The Coton (pronounced kah-tone) is a bouncy little companion dog that is primarily valued for its adorable personality and cute, stuffed-animal-like appearance. The breed originated in Madagascar several hundred years ago and is named for a port city there. The Coton de Tuléar is the national dog of the island of Madagascar. It is related to the Bichon Frise and the Maltese, but has its own distinct character. In the 1970s, the Coton was brought to Europe and to the United States, cultivating a history of living a life of luxury as a companion to the upper classes. Some have speculated that it was used as a ratter on ships, but its lack of a hunting instinct belies that characterization. In addition to its charming personality, a notable feature is its “cottony” coat and funny “mustache and beard” muzzle. Its coat, which is silky-soft to the touch, makes it a favorite accessory for owners - including certain celebrities - who find keeping this pet close more than they can resist. The dog breed was recognized by the AKC in 2014 as part of the Non-Sporting Group and is certainly recognized by the top European dog clubs.

The Coton de Tuléar is the quintessential happy-go-lucky pooch. The Coton (pronounced ko-tawn) is a bouncy little companion dog that is primarily valued for their adorable personality and cute, stuffed-animal-like appearance.

One of the facts about the Coton de Tuléar is that they originated in Madagascar several hundred years ago and are named for Tulear, a port city there. The Coton de Tuléar is the national dog of the island of Madagascar. They are related to the Bichon Frise and the Maltese, but has their own distinct character.

These little dogs were the preferred companions of Madagascar nobles. So much so, that a law was passed to prohibit commoners from owning a Coton. These nobles were also reluctant to allow Cotons to leave the island, which kept them relatively isolated from the rest of the world for a long time.

It wouldn’t be until the 1960s that French tourists would discover the breed and bring them back to Europe. From there, the Coton was brought to Europe and to the United States where the breed was refined into the modern Coton that continues to grab people’s attention and hearts. In addition to their charming personality, a notable feature is their “cottony” coat and funny “mustache and beard” muzzle.

Their coat, which is silky-soft to the touch, makes them a favorite cuddle companion for owners - including certain celebrities - who find keeping this pet close more than they can resist. The dog breed was recognized by the AKC in 2014 as part of the Non-Sporting Group and is certainly recognized by the top European dog clubs.

Temperament

The Coton de Tuléar breed is all about temperament; they possess an abundance of personality, which is the primary reason for the popularity of this little dog. They so thoroughly enjoy being the center of attention that they can become clownish and entertaining. These little dogs are not afraid to act a little silly if it means receiving attention and adoration. A standout talent of the Coton is their ability to stand on their hind legs. They will do this little trick frequently for praise and attention and, perhaps, for their own amusement. The Coton will also tilt their furry head in response to being spoken to in a comical jerk that highlights their long mustache and beard. Adding to the Coton spectacle are their vocalizations. Cotons make some funny noises when they’re playing, including high-pitched, short barking vocalizations and a range of grunting noises. The Coton is an easily integrated member of the family and they are also exceptionally friendly to visitors at home and strangers on the street. They are enthusiastic about interacting with people and tend to be a face-licker to display their affection. The Coton will carefully shadow you wherever you go, enjoying the sheer pleasure of being in your presence. The family, single, or older owner that fully appreciates the affable character of this dog will find their temperament to be simply perfect.

Did You Know?

The unproven consensus is that the Coton de Tuléar dog breed was brought to Madagascar during the 16th and 17th centuries aboard pirate ships. It has also been featured on Madagascar’s postage stamps and is considered the “Royal Dog of Madagascar.”