Coton de Tulear Information

The Coton de Tulear originates from Madagascar, the world's fourth largest island, off the southeast coast of Africa. The breed dates back to the 15th century. Tp offset sailor's hardships and loneliness of ladies- , little white dogs were added to the passenger list. During a violent storm, a ship wrecked near Madagascar- all sailors and ladies perished- while the little white dogs swam to shore. It is assumed some little white dogs settled on the island, became wild again, met eventually with the local terriers resulting in the Coton. Natives fell in love with these little white dogs, domesticated and offered them to the King and Malagasy nobles.
At the turn of the century, French colonists also fell under the spell of these little dogs, took them back to their native country, raised the Cotons as pets.
The Coton de Tulear is a small, sweet "cottony"long haired- , mainly white dog, weighing 10-12 lbs.He is a happy, little companion, often acting like a clown in the show ring. They are very eager and intelligent and form strong bonds with their masters. The Coton thrives on love, food, human companionship and protection from its family. The Coton is seldom sick and lives to be 15-18 yrs old.
The United States of America Coton de Tulear Club (USACTC) was born in the late 1994 and in1995 "Cherry Blossom" of ARBA there were 20 entries. The breed is noted as the "ANTI-STRESS DOG OF THE 20th CENTURY.



Found principally in the port city of Tulear, this small Madagascan dog whose beautiful white or nearly all white coat has - just like the rip fruit of the cotton bush - a texture similar to a wad of cotton wool. Coton is french for cotton. The texture of the breed's coat makes it stand out from almost all other dog breeds. It is obvious that this dog is related to the Bichon but we really know very little about its origin. It was becoming extinct and France brought some over and started to breed these wonderful dogs. They were brought to America in 1974 by Dr. Robert Jay Russell from Madagascar. This is a very sweet natured dog that will adapt to its environment and aims to please. They are wonderful companion dogs and do well with children and other animals. They require minimal exercise but will go for walks and romp and play like a child. If you are not looking for a warm, loving, faithful and happy go lucky companion, this dog is not for you. These dogs are also wonderful to travel with if you are looking for a pet to keep you company when you are away from home. Their health is very good and the quality breeders have been very careful to keep this line pure. Always question your breeder and see the environment the puppy is born in. There are always good and bad in everything so beware and get to know your breeder. They do not shed and are non allergic dogs. However, there is always the acception to the rule with allergies and I feel, you should test first to make sure you are okay if you have serious problems. These dogs also do not have doggy smell.

The following health screenings are often performed by responsible Coton de Tulear breeders: