The Coton de Tulear is between 9.5 to 13 inches tall at the shoulders,
a little over two feet long and typically weighs less than 14
pounds. Coton eyes are dark and warm, with a medium length muzzle
and a black nose. The Coton's coat is from 4 to 6 inches long
and is more hair-like than fur. Coton de Tulears produce no dander
so most people who are allergic to dogs are not allergic to Cotons
as a result. Coton hair does require regular grooming, and if
well kept up, it is easily managed. The only shedding we have
noticed is when they are being combed, or if combing is not done
regularly. Coton de Tulears are long-lived, (over 15 years on
average). Due to careful breeding and high standards of the Coton
breeders, Cotons have a wonderful cottony coat, enchanting personalities,
and are very affectionate and even-tempered. The Cotons' antics
are more than engaging and their personalities are sure to warm
even the most reluctant of hearts.
Though Cotons thrive in either desert heat or winter cold, the
Coton de Tulear is an indoor dog. Cotons do not do well in a kennel
or being raised outside as Coton de Tulears are bred for their
attachment and companionship to humans. Unlike many other small
dogs Cotons are slow to anger. Coton de Tulears are very attentive
to whatever their humans are doing and relish time spent with
them. Some Cotons enjoy walking on their hind legs and will do
so simply to please their human family. Cotons are very attentive
to whatever is being said. Coton de Tulears retain their puppy-like
playfulness throughout their life. Coton de Tulears are mostly
white, although some Cotons have varying degrees of coloring,
with either champagne, tobacco, or black trim around the ears
and occasionally some pale champagne, tobacco, or even black on
the face and torso. As a Coton de Tulear pup grows older the color
often fades, sometimes all the way to white. By the age of two,
there may be only a hint of coloring left, or none at all.
