Are you thinking of getting a Coton De Tulear? These little dogs are gentle, loving and make great companions. But before you add one to your family, there are some things you should know about the Coton De Tulear temperament and how to care for them.
Coton De Tulear Breed Characteristics
The Coton De Tulear is a small, white dog that originates from the island of Madagascar. The breed gets its name from the cotton-like coat. While the exact origins of the Coton De Tulear are unknown, it is believed that the breed is a descendant of the Maltese and Bichon frise.
The Coton De Tulear was introduced to France in the 1970s, and it quickly became a popular pet among the upper class. The breed eventually made its way to North America in the 1980s, where it has continued to grow in popularity.
Today, the Coton De Tulear is still a relatively rare breed, but it is slowly gaining in popularity. The breed is known for being a loyal and affectionate companion, and it makes a great addition to any family.
Coton De Tulear Temperament
The Coton de Tulear is a friendly and outgoing breed. They enjoy being around people and are known for being very affectionate and playful. Cotons are also relatively easy to train, making them an ideal choice for first-time dog owners. They are known for being good watchdogs and companion dogs. However, the Coton de Tulear does require regular grooming and is not suited for homes with small children or other pets.
Coton de Tulears – Looks, Size, Coat
Cotons are small dogs, typically weighing between 8 and 16 pounds. They have round heads, long muzzles, and dark eyes. Their ears are floppy, and they have a short, dense coat that is mostly white but may also contain light brown or silver markings. The Coton’s coat is soft and fluffy, making them look like little balls of cotton. This breed does not shed much, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Their life expectancy is 12-15 years.
How to Groom a Coton de Tulear Puppy
Assuming you have already decided to groom your dog of Madagascar at home, you will need to purchase the necessary supplies. These include a quality dog shampoo and conditioner, a detangling spray, a slicker brush, and a comb. You may also want to consider using doggie wipes in between baths to keep your pet clean and fresh smelling.
Bathing
When bathing your Coton de Tulear, be sure to use a dog shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed for puppies. These products will be gentle on your dog’s skin and coat and will help to prevent any irritation. Be sure to wet your dog’s cottony coat thoroughly before applying the shampoo. Work the shampoo into a lather and then rinse it off completely.
Brushing
After the bath, you will need to use a detangling spray to help remove any knots or tangles from your pup’s coat. Be sure to follow the directions on the bottle carefully. Once the spray has been applied, you can use a slicker brush to gently brush out your pup’s coat. Start at the head and work your way down the body.
Finally, you will need to use a comb to remove any remaining tangles or knots. Be sure to be very gentle while combing out your pup’s coat. Puppies have delicate skin, and you don’t want to cause any irritation. Once you have combed out the coat, you can give your furry friend a final rinse with clean water.
Drying
After the bath and grooming session, you should dry your dog off thoroughly. A good way to do this is to use a blow-dryer on a low setting. Be sure to hold the blow-dryer about 12 inches away from the coat to prevent any burns. You can also towel dry your pup, but be sure not to rub the coat too vigorously as this can cause irritation.
Once your dog is completely dry, you can brush out his or her coat one final time. This will help to remove any loose hair and will give the coat a nice shine. Be sure to move in the direction of hair growth to avoid any tangles and matting.
Coton de Tulear Health Concerns
Coton de Tulear health concerns are not common, but they can occur. Some of the most common health problems seen in Cotons include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. However, these problems are rare and most Cotons enjoy good health throughout their lives.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that can affect any dog, but it is relatively common in Cotons. Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip does not fit together properly. This can cause pain and lameness in the affected leg. Hip dysplasia is usually diagnosed with x-rays. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition but may include weight management, exercise modification, and pain relief medication.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap becomes dislodged from its normal position. This can cause pain and lameness in the affected leg. Patellar luxation is usually diagnosed with x-rays. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition but may include weight management, exercise modification, and pain relief medication.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a condition that affects the hip joint. It is caused by a loss of blood supply to the head of the femur (thighbone). This can cause pain and lameness in the affected leg. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is typically diagnosed with x-rays. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
How to Train a Puppy
One of the most important things you can do when training a Coton de Tulear is to socialize them early and often. This means exposing them to as many different people, animals, and situations as possible so that they learn to cope with new experiences and become well-rounded adults. Start taking your dog out on short walks around the neighborhood, to the local dog park, or on playdates with other young dogs. The more new things they experience now, the easier it will be for them to adapt later on in life.
In addition to socialization, obedience training is also crucial for Coton de Tulear. These smart little dogs are quick learners, but like all puppies they need to be taught the basics like sit, stay, come, down, and leave it. Consistency is key when training a puppy, so make sure everyone in the household is using the same commands and following through with rewards (or consequences) consistently.
Coton de Tulear: Dietary Needs
Coton de Tulear has a few specific dietary needs that must be met in order to maintain their health. First and foremost, these dogs need a high-quality diet that is rich in proteins and nutrients. Secondly, they need access to fresh, clean water at all times. Finally, it is important to refrain from overfeeding these dogs, as they are prone to obesity.
When choosing a diet for your Coton de Tulear, it is important to consult with your veterinarian first and foremost. They will be able to recommend food that is specifically tailored to meet the needs of your dog. It is also significant to take into account any allergies or sensitivities that your dog may have.
Coton de Tulear: Exercise Needs
Coton de Tulear dogs need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or play session is a great way to provide your Coton with the physical activity they need. Try out different dog sports or activities like agility, obedience, flyball, or tracking to keep your Coton engaged and challenged.
Cotons are also known for being good swimmers, so consider taking your dog to the beach or pool for a swim on hot days. Just be sure to supervise them closely and provide them with a doggie life jacket if they’re not strong swimmers.
Where to Buy Coton de Tulear Puppies, Prices & Breeders
If you’re interested in purchasing a Coton de Tulear, there are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration. Prices for these dogs can range anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on the breeder and the individual dog’s pedigree. It’s important to do your research when choosing a breeder, as there are many unscrupulous people in the business. Only purchase a puppy from a breeder that can provide you with health clearances and paperwork proving that the parents of the dog are free of any genetic disorders.
When looking for Coton de Tulear for sale, be sure to visit local animal shelters and rescue groups first. Many wonderful dogs are waiting to be adopted into loving homes, and you may just find your perfect match!
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