The Coton de Tulear, how can one describe them?
They have soft, cottony textured fur, they are exuberant,
happy, and intelligent. Having a Coton or two in your family
can only brighten your days. They are ever happy to greet
you, even if you have only been gone 5 minutes. Many will
walk on their hind legs. They make unusual vocalizations.
Many will cock their heads attentively while you talk to
them. They seem to sense if you are down, and give you an
extra bit of love, and a laugh.
The typical English pronunciation is Ca-tawn de
Too-lee-ahr. Of course in French it sounds more elegant.
To know a Coton is to enhance your quality of life. They
are noted for their cheerful temperament and clown-like
behavior. They also do not have a doggy odor, even when
they are wet. They are good for most allergy sufferers and
shed very little. Even though they are hypo-allergenic it is
still possible to have allergies to them. Although small, they
are quite sturdy and athletic. They also get along well with
other animals. They are a very social dog, so they should
not be left alone all day.
They will adapt to being left for a certain amount of time,
however, 8 hours a day, five days a week, would not be an
acceptable life for our precious Cotons. The Coton is a rare
breed, so they have not been over bred, and do not have
many genetic defects that other breeds do. They are robust
and healthy. Adding a Coton or two to your family will give
you countless hours of happiness and joy!