What makes the Coton de Tulear utterly adorable are its fine and cottony coat, little body and constantly cheerful mode. This breed has been introduced to the dog-loving community only recently but its popularity has exceeded that of other breeds. This bichon-type of dog, which is also called the royal dog of Madagascar, is without a doubt a pet to watch out for.
It was a visiting doctor whom discovered the existence of this cuddly little dog in the island of Madagascar. Before long, the breed was traveling towards United States and Europe. During the many decades of seclusion in the island, the Coton lived among the rich people of the society.
Like other bichon dogs, the Coton is without a doubt stately in its posture and French in its facial emotions. There are three colors for the Coton coat and they are black and white, white, and tri-color (a combination of black, white and brown). All over its body, the Coton is filled by long, soft and fluffy hair to the point that even its small legs are also covered.
The Coton is one breed that commands regular grooming and cleaning in order to maintain the health and beauty of its low-shedding hair. The hair should be constantly brushed and combed in order to remove the dead ones and the excess growth on the inner ears and foot pads should be trimmed. Once or twice a year, the Coton should be bathed.
As a natural entertainer, the Coton loves to humor and give out a show to its master and other people. It performs tricks such as walking, standing and bouncing using its two feet only. When it comes to other people, animals and especially children, the Coton is very welcoming and amiable.
This breed is gentle, loving and always on a chirpy mode and rarely grumps and whines. It is much attached and devoted to its master therefore it tends to experience separation anxiety when the master constantly needs to be away. Albeit its small size, the Coton is quick-witted, highly trainable and independent.
It is also alert and in fact is good as a watchdog. This dog has an innate stubbornness thus sometimes it won’t listen to commands much. Moreover, this breed is also very vocal as it tends to give out a grunting sound whenever it is displeased or a cheerful noise whenever it is having fun.
The Coton’s ancestors reached Madagascar because of pirates who stole them from ships. Madagascar has a great history of pirates, treasures and the Coton de Tulear as well. For how many decades, this breed was the favorite companion of the Merina tribe and in fact, it is hailed as Madagascar’s National Dog.
