Coton de Tulear

AffectionatePlayfulPeople-orientedGentleEasygoing

The Coton de Tulear is a small, cheerful companion dog with a soft white coat and a people-oriented nature. Most are happy to follow their family from room to room and tend to stay close, sometimes vocal when they want attention. They generally get along well with children who are gentle with them and usually do well with other dogs and cats when introduced calmly.

Day to day, a Coton needs regular brushing to keep its coat from tangling, along with short daily walks and time indoors with its people. They do not need long, intense workouts, but they do not like being left alone for long stretches. Short training sessions with positive reinforcement suit them well.

Good for: Families, first-time owners, and quieter homes with company

Size	small
Weight	9–13 lb
Height	9–11 in
Exercise	about 40 min a day
Shedding	low
Origin	Madagascar

Before you choose a Coton de Tulear

Expect regular brushing and not much time alone, since this breed bonds closely with its people.

Living with a Coton de Tulear

Exercise

About 30 to 45 minutes a day, split into a couple of walks and some indoor play. Mental stimulation like short training games helps keep them content.

Grooming

The coat is soft and does not shed much, but it mats easily without regular brushing several times a week. Bathe as needed and keep the coat trimmed or well maintained.

Health

Coton de Tulear are prone to patellar luxation and can be prone to eye problems and allergies. Ask a vet about screening and a suitable check-up schedule.

Patellar luxation
Eye conditions
Allergies

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

Questions owners ask

Do Coton de Tulear shed?

They shed very little, which makes them a good choice for owners concerned about hair around the house. Their coat still needs regular brushing to prevent mats.

Can a Coton de Tulear live in an apartment?

Yes, they adapt well to apartment living as long as they get daily walks and time with their family. They are small and generally quiet indoors.

Do Coton de Tulear bark a lot?

They can be vocal, especially when they want attention or sense something new. Early training helps keep barking manageable.