Creating A Great Home For Your Animals

Coton De Tulear -- Meet A Cute New Member Of The AKC Pack

19 December 2017

Michele Cruz

On July 1st, 2014, the American Kennel Club (AKC) welcomed two new breeds into its pack -- the Coton de Tulear and the Wirehaired Vizsla. While you may have heard of the Vizsla -- the smooth-coated Vizsla has been a member of the AKC since 1960 -- it's probably likely you've never heard of the Coton de Tulear. But that probably won't last for long. This little bundle of fluff is one of the newest breeds recognized by the AKC, and it is cuteness epitomized. Even better? Because this breed, which joined the AKC's non-sporting group, has soft hair rather than fur, it is considered hypoallergenic.  

From Where? De Tulear!

The Coton de Tulear originated on the island nation of Madagascar, which is located off of the coast of Africa. It is also sometimes referred to as the Royal Dog of Madagascar because, at one time, only royalty in this country could own this breed. Its name comes from the French word for cotton -- coton -- and from a port city in Madagascar called Tulear. The Coton de Tulear is actually the national dog of Madagascar. 

Description

This is a small but sturdy breed. The following are the requirements that are sought for the Coton de Tulear in the show ring:

• Height. Bitches should measure between nine and ten inches at the shoulder, while males should be between ten and eleven inches. 
• Weight. Bitches should weigh between eight and thirteen pounds, while males should be between nine and fifteen pounds.

The Coton de Tulear is known for being a happy-go-lucky and friendly dog. Like poodles and wire-haired fox terriers, this breed does not shed its hair like dogs with fur. Because of this, though, it is important to brush its coat out daily. Otherwise, you could end up with a very matted dog. 

It was not bred for hunting, so it typically does not display a prey drive. Some breeds, such as Jack Russell Terriers, were developed to go after vermin and have a high prey drive. They tend to see small creatures, such as cats, as prey. So if you're looking for a small dog that will get along with other creatures in your household, the Coton de Tulear would make an excellent choice. Temperament-wise, this breed also has a reputation for getting along with children and other canines. 

All-in-all, the Coton de Tulear sounds like it will make an awesome addition to the AKC family -- and possibly for your family, as well. For more information on Coton puppies for sale, contact a local breeder. 

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