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Coton de Tulear

Non-Sporting Group

Lively, intelligent and adaptable

Coton de Tulear

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Breed Overview

The Coton de Tulear is an excellent companion with its charming personality and distinctive fluffy coat. They are particularly suited for those who can provide love, attention, and regular grooming to maintain their unique skin.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Small breed
  • Height Generally stands at about 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) at the shoulder
  • Weight Typically ranges between 8-15 pounds (3.5-7 kg)
  • Life Span Around 14-16 years
  • Coat Characterized by its soft, cotton-like coat, which is long and fluffy
  • Color Mainly white, but they can have shades of grey or black in their coat
  • Grooming High; requires regular brushing to prevent mats
  • Temperament Known for being playful, affectionate, and friendly
  • Energy Level Moderate; enjoys playtime and short walks
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate; enjoys walks and playtime
  • Trainability Intelligent and generally easy to train with positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Good with families, children, and other pets when properly socialized
  • Grooming High; requires regular brushing to prevent mats
  • Health Issues Generally healthy but prone to certain conditions like heart murmurs and eye problems
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Highly affectionate and gentle, Coton de Tulears thrive in family settings, bonding well with children and other pets
  • Suitable Living Space Ideal for apartments and small living spaces, Coton de Tulears adapt well to indoor life with moderate exercise

About the Breed

The Coton de Tulear is as much a lapdog as a playful companion. Their adaptability and moderate energy levels suit active families and those living more sedentary lifestyles.

History of the Breed

Originating from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear was once the preferred companion of Malagasy nobles. The breed is named after the city of Tulear in Madagascar and its cotton-like coat.

Madagascar

Fun Facts About the Coton de Tulear

What To Expect When Caring For a Coton de Tulear

Health

Generally, it is a healthy breed, but it is prone to conditions like heart murmurs and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential.

Grooming

Their beautiful coat requires regular grooming. Daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months is recommended.

Exercise

Moderate exercise like daily walks and play sessions are sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.

Training

Cotons are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement. Early socialization and obedience training are beneficial.

Nutrition

A balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level is crucial. Be mindful of portion sizes to prevent obesity.

The Coton de Tulear is a delightful small breed, perfect for those seeking a loving and cheerful companion. They thrive in environments where they can receive plenty of attention and care. A Coton de Tulear can be a joyful and loyal addition to any home with proper grooming, exercise, training, and nutrition.

Coton de Tulear Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Coton de Tulear is generally a healthy breed, but like all dog breeds, they have specific health issues they may be prone to. Awareness of these conditions and conducting recommended health tests can help ensure their well-being. Here's a list of common health issues in Coton de Tulears and the recommended tests for these conditions:

Description: A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location. Symptoms can include lameness or an abnormal gait.

Description: Although less common in smaller breeds, hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint, can occur. It may lead to arthritis or discomfort in later life.

Description: Including mitral valve disease, a condition that can lead to heart failure if untreated. Symptoms can include coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

Description: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can lead to blindness. Regular eye checks are recommended.

Description: Small breeds are prone to dental issues, including early tooth loss and gum disease. Regular dental care is crucial.

Description: Skin allergies can be a concern, manifesting as itchiness, redness, or hair loss. Allergies may be food or environment-related.

Luxating Patella

Description: A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location. Symptoms can include lameness or an abnormal gait.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: Although less common in smaller breeds, hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint, can occur. It may lead to arthritis or discomfort in later life.

Heart Issues

Description: Including mitral valve disease, a condition that can lead to heart failure if untreated. Symptoms can include coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

Eye Problems

Description: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can lead to blindness. Regular eye checks are recommended.

Dental Problems

Description: Small breeds are prone to dental issues, including early tooth loss and gum disease. Regular dental care is crucial.

Allergies

Description: Skin allergies can be a concern, manifesting as itchiness, redness, or hair loss. Allergies may be food or environment-related.

Ensuring that Coton de Tulears undergo these health tests, mainly if they are intended for breeding, can help in the early detection and management of these conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key factors in promoting the long-term health of Coton de Tulears.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Coton de Tulears

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Coton de Tulear?

The annual cost of caring for a Coton de Tulear can vary depending on your location, the dog’s needs, and the standard of care you provide. Here’s an overview of the typical expenses involved in caring for a Coton de Tulear:

A purebred Coton de Tulear puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1200 - 4000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Coton de Tulear enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food and treats are essential for a Coton de Tulear's health.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Coton de Tulears.

The Coton de Tulear's coat requires regular grooming.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Coton de Tulears require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Coton de Tulear's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Coton de Tulear will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 100

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2900 - $7900

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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