If you’re looking for the perfect family hypoallergenic dog, the Coton de Tulear might be just the breed for you.
The Coton de Tulear is a sweet-natured, loving bread that easily fits into any family’s lifestyle and routine.
Let’s check out a few must-know facts about the breed, including temperament, health, and care!
Related: Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Don’t Bark…Much
The Coton de Tulear – A Fun Loving Family Friend
The Coton de Tulear is a true family hypoallergenic dog. Completely devoted to its people, it loves to be surrounded by its them at all times.
This attachment to its people isn’t surprising when you consider that the breed is closely related to the Bichon Frise and Maltese breeds.
In addition to the temperament the Coton de Tulear shares with the Bichon and the Maltese, it also shares one other important trait – it’s hypoallergenic.
This makes it a great choice for a family with an allergy sufferer.
Related: Hypoallergenic Dogs for Adoption: Find Your New Best Friend!
Coton de Tulear Fast Facts
- Height: 10-11 inches tall for males, 9-10 for females
- Weight: 9-15 pounds for males, 8-13 pounds for females
- Life Expectancy: 15-19 years
- Breed popularity: The Coton de Tulear ranks #80 on the AKC breed popularity list, putting it right near the middle.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65FwTI5QYBg
What is the Coton de Tulear Temperament?
The Coton de Tulear is a consummate people pleaser!
This breed is smart and easy to train, and it responds exceptionally well to praise, play and food.
Its intelligence, coupled with its exceptionally trainable nature makes it a joy for first-time dog owners or an owner who just doesn’t want the hassle of a stubborn or difficult temperament.
This is not a watchdog, unless you count death by licking. They love people. ALL people. Which means whether you have a guest or an intruder, the Coton de Tulear is most likely going to be leading the guided tour of the home.
Most Common Coton de Tulear Health Concerns
Generally speaking, the Coton de Tulear is a healthy breed overall.
They have few health problems, and the ones that have been noted in the breed are not widespread. This means that you have a loving family companion that is healthy and happy for the most part.
The three most common (but not widespread) conditions with the Coton de Tulear are:
1. Luxating Patellas:
Also called floating kneecaps. This is a common condition in small breed hypoallergenic dogs in which the kneecap can pop out of place.
Keeping your puppy from jumping on or off the furniture while it is growing will help prevent floating kneecaps.
Symptoms include limping, abnormal gait, and a sudden inability to put pressure on the knee. These symptoms don’t always occur consistently.
Treatment consists mostly of nutrition and supplements rather than medications and surgery. For dogs suffering from a completely dislocated kneecap, though, surgery is almost always the preferred option.
2. Hip Dsyplasia:
This is a condition in which the thigh bone doesn’t sit into the hip socket correctly. In most cases, you won’t see symptoms until the dog is older and arthritis has begun to form.
This is very uncommon in the Coton but it can occur. While genetics does play a role, you can help prevent it by making sure your dog maintains a proper weight.
Treating hip dysplasia surgically is expensive, so most pet parents manage the condition through medications and supplements.
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy:
PRS is a congenital degenerative eye disorder that eventually leads to blindness. Like hip dysplasia, this condition has been found in Cotons, but it is not a super common disorder in the breed.
Since it is a congenital disease, there is no real way to prevent it. Poor night vision is usually the first symptom. You may also notice a film over your dog’s eyes, or a glow.
If you suspect your Coton has PRS, get him to the vet asap. Your dog will need to be on special supplements to support his eye health as much as possible.
As with any dog, if you get your pup from a reputable breeder, you should not have to be overly concerned about these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for genetic testing before breeding their dogs.
Care of the Coton de Tulear
The Coton is exceedingly easy to care for.
A hardy breed, it enjoys playing in all types of weather, including rain and snow, so a weekly bath is required.
In addition, all standards of care should be observed such as regular nail trimming, anal gland checks, and exercise.
Exercise for a Coton de Tulear can be a romp in your fenced in backyard or a brisk walk.
Coton de Tulear FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the Coton de Tulear!
1. What is the definition of Coton de Tulear?
The name “Coton de Tulear” translates to Tulear Cotton. Tulear is a city in Madagascar, and I think you can figure out where the cotton part comes from just by looking at their coat!
2. What is the average cost of a Coton de Tulear?
According to the American Coton Club, a Coton de Tulear ranges from $2,000-4000. The high end is for show-quality (and breedable) Cotons, while the lower end is for those just looking for a companion dog.
I encourage you to “adopt, don’t shop” when searching for your Coton. Check local shelters first, followed by breed-specific rescues. The American Coton Club has information on Coton de Tulear rescue groups.
Check out our tips for finding dog adoption events in your area for more ways to find Cotons available for rescue!
3. What is a Coton Poo dog?
A Coton Poo is exactly what it sounds like, a Coton de Tulear mixed with a Poodle.
4. What is the lifespan of a Coton
As mentioned above, the Coton de Tulear has a life expectancy of between 15-19 years. Smaller dogs often live longer than large breeds, so expect to have many happy years with your Coton!
Related: Temperament & Life Expectancy of a Pomchi
5. Can you be allergic to a Coton de Tulear?
Yes, of course. You can be allergic to anything. While the Coton is considered a hypoallergenic dog, there is no such thing as a 100% allergen-free dog.
That said, the Coton is pretty easy on those with dog allergies since they don’t really shed.
See also: 5 All-Around Best Small Hypoallergenic Dogs for Families
Coton de Tulear – Happy Go Lucky Love Bug
The Coton de Tulear is a happy go lucky love bug. It will follow you everywhere – including the bathroom – so be prepared to relinquish all privacy to your new shadow! This breed is wonderfully loving, happy, and eager to please. If you’re looking for a new family friend, the Coton could be just the breed for you.
As always, make adoption your first option. Although you may not find this breed at your local shelter, there are many breed specific rescue sites on the internet. So if you’re looking for a Coton, check those first.
Do you have a Coton de Tulear? What are your thoughts on this perfect hypoallergenic companion dog?
