Coton de Tulear
Accompanying ladies on long sea voyages, ratters onboard ship. Affectionate Apartment-friendly Great with kids High energy dog Intelligent Lively Loves hot weather Non-Sporting Playful Sheds a lot Trainable Vocal

Coton de Tulear

Height 9 - 11 in (23 - 28 cm)
Weight 9 - 15 lbs (4 - 7 kg)
Lifespan 13 - 16 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Coton de Tulear Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?

Do you live in a hot climate?

Breed Characteristics

Coton de Tulears generally require around 30-40 minutes of exercise per day, with some sources suggesting 5-10 minutes per month of age. The consensus leans towards a moderate to high exercise requirement for this breed.

How much exercise does Coton de Tulear need?

Low High
Based on the consensus from the sources, grooming a Coton de Tulear requires regular brushing ranging from 2-4 times a week, with additional grooming tasks such as bathing every 1-6 weeks and monitoring for matting. The overall grooming time commitment is also mentioned to be around an hour daily if not brushed regularly.

How much grooming does Coton de Tulear need?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that Coton de Tulears are intelligent, quick learners who respond well to gentle, positive reinforcement training. While some patience and effort may be required, overall, they are considered easy to train.

Is Coton de Tulear easy to train?

Low High
Based on the majority of sources describing Cotons de Tulear as intelligent, quick learners, adaptable, and observant. While there were a couple of opinions suggesting average intelligence, the overall consensus leans towards a high level of intelligence for this breed.

How intelligent is Coton de Tulear?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that Coton de Tulears are intelligent but can be stubborn and independent at times, requiring early training and socialization. They are known for forming strong bonds with their owners and are affectionate companions.

Is Coton de Tulear stubborn or independent?

Low High
The consensus suggests that Cotons de Tulear generally require around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day, with variations based on age and individual energy levels. The majority of sources recommend daily playtime and walks, with some suggesting shorter, more frequent sessions for puppies. While they are fairly active, they do not require constant stimulation, indicating a moderate exercise need.

How much playtime does a Coton de Tulear need daily?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that while Cotons de Tulear do not require extensive exercise, they still need regular exercise for health reasons. They can do well indoors with limited walks, but some daily exercise is ideal for their well-being.

Can Coton de Tulear stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that the Coton de Tulear breed is naturally territorial and can be protective when needed. While they are generally friendly and good with families, they do exhibit territorial instincts that can lead to protective behavior in certain situations.

Is Coton de Tulear protective or territorial?

Low High
The consensus from the sources overwhelmingly indicates that the Coton de Tulear is highly affectionate with its family, forming strong bonds, being loyal, and thriving on human companionship. Owners describe them as loving, cuddly, and excellent companions, especially for families and children.

Is Coton de Tulear affectionate with family?

Low High
The consensus from the sources suggests that Coton de Tulear dogs are not excessive barkers, but they may bark to communicate or alert their owners. Proper training can help manage their barking tendencies.

Does Coton de Tulear bark a lot?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Coton de Tulear prone to allergies?

The Coton de Tulear breed is often considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coat, making them a good fit for individuals with allergies. While they may not be completely allergen-free, their lack of an undercoat and minimal shedding can reduce allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Although not particularly prone to allergies, like any breed, they are not entirely risk-free. Some sources suggest that Cotons may have a high incidence of allergies, including potential food sensitivities and environmental allergies like pollen and dust mites. Regular grooming and monitoring of their diet may help manage any allergy-related issues that may arise.


Is Coton de Tulear a hypoallergenic breed?

The Coton de Tulear breed is generally considered hypoallergenic due to its low-shedding coat that is more like hair than fur, making it less likely to cause allergic reactions. While some sources emphasize that there is no completely hypoallergenic dog, the Coton's minimal shedding and low dander levels make it a good choice for allergy sufferers. The breed is known for being non-shedding, with some mentioning that they may lose extra fur during seasonal changes. Overall, the Coton de Tulear's coat is often described as allergy-friendly, making them a suitable option for individuals with allergies.


What are common health issues in Coton de Tulear?

The Coton de Tulear breed is relatively free from genetic health issues, but some common health problems can include eye issues, hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and spinal disc disease. Other potential health concerns may involve obesity, tracheal collapse, arthritis, hypoglycemia, broken bones, heart disease, allergies leading to skin irritation, and eye conditions. Neonatal Cerebellar Ataxia is a specific disorder that affects only the Coton de Tulear and Havanese breeds. Overall, while the breed is generally healthy, it is important for potential owners to be aware of these potential health issues and provide proper care and monitoring for their Coton de Tulear.


How often should a Coton de Tulear visit the vet?

The Coton de Tulear is a small breed known for its charming personality and relatively long lifespan of 14-17 years, with some individuals living up to 15-19 years. Regular vet visits are essential to keep them up to date on vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, and overall health. It is recommended that adult Cotons be brushed 3 to 4 times a week with a pin brush to prevent hair breakage. While they are generally healthy dogs, it is important to monitor their health closely as they age, especially when they reach geriatric stages. Additionally, specific grooming needs, such as managing matting during the puppy coat transition phase, should be addressed to maintain their well-being.


What is the average vet bill for a Coton de Tulear?

The average vet bill for a Coton de Tulear can range from $65 to $170 per visit in the first year, with an annual cost estimated to be between $500 to $1,000. Additional costs may include flea and tick medication, grooming expenses, and pet insurance, with monthly expenses ranging from $50 to $200 or more. Routine veterinary visits for a Coton de Tulear are typically priced between $25 to $186. The initial cost of purchasing a Coton de Tulear puppy can range from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on factors such as breeder, location, and bloodline. Consideration of pet insurance is recommended to help reduce veterinary costs.


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