What is the temperament of a Coton de Tulear?

Coton de Tulears are known to be affectionate, lively, playful, intelligent, vocal, funny, curious, friendly, shy or timid, gentle, quiet, loyal, smart. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Coton de Tulear need?

Coton de Tulears are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Coton de Tulear?

Coton de Tulears require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a Coton de Tulear?

Coton de Tulears are highly trainable and typically respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Are Coton de Tulears good with children?

Coton de Tulears are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Coton de Tulear unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Coton de Tulear stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from Madagaskar, specialized abilities for accompanying ladies on long sea voyages, ratters onboard ship.. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Coton de Tulear?

Before bringing a Coton de Tulear into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (5/5) and need an active owner. Their coat requires significant maintenance (4/5) with regular grooming sessions. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). They're typically highly trainable (4/5) and eager to learn. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Coton de Tulear. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Coton de Tulears originally bred for?

Coton de Tulears were originally bred for accompanying ladies on long sea voyages, ratters onboard ship.. As part of the Non-Sporting group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Coton de Tulear's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Coton de Tulears are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Coton de Tulears typically live?

The average lifespan of a Coton de Tulear is 13 - 16 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Coton de Tulears may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Coton de Tulear

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Affectionate, Lively, Playful, Intelligent, Vocal, Funny, Curious, Friendly, Shy or Timid, Gentle, Quiet, Loyal, Smart

Weight

9 - 15 lbs

Height

9 - 11 inches

Life Span

13 - 16 years

Breed Group

Non-Sporting

Bred For

Accompanying ladies on long sea voyages, ratters onboard ship.

Origin

Madagaskar

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability4/5

Energy Level5/5

Grooming Needs4/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs5/5

They are extremely energetic dogs requiring extensive daily exercise, activities, and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements4/5

They have high grooming needs requiring frequent brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability4/5

Highly trainable and quick to learn commands

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Coton de Tulear Guide

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Overview

About the Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Accompanying ladies on long sea voyages, ratters onboard ship.

Temperament

Affectionate, Lively, Playful, Intelligent, Vocal, Funny, Curious, Friendly, Shy or Timid, Gentle, Quiet, Loyal, Smart

How We Find Similar Breeds

We analyze breed characteristics including temperament, size, appearance, and care needs to identify the most similar dog breeds. This helps you discover alternatives that might be a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

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Coton de Tulear

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Temperament

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