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Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulear is a small non-sporting breed from Madagascar also known as Coton, Royal Dog of Madagascar.

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Coton de Tulear

Breed overview

Coton de Tulear is a small non-sporting breed from Madagascar also known as Coton, Royal Dog of Madagascar.

The royal dog of Madagascar, named after the port city of Tuléar (now Toliara). Legend says they arrived on the island when a ship carrying small white dogs was wrecked off Madagascar's coast, and the survivors swam to shore and bred with local dogs.

People looking into Coton de Tulear usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, High grooming needs, 8–15 lbs • 9–11 in.

CotonRoyal Dog of Madagascar

History and origin

Coton de Tulear is tied to originating from Madagascar, specifically Tulear port, with sources often placing its development around 1600 CE.

Coton de Tulear is described here as placed in the non-sporting group and marked as an established breed.

The royal dog of Madagascar, named after the port city of Tuléar (now Toliara). Legend says they arrived on the island when a ship carrying small white dogs was wrecked off Madagascar's coast, and the survivors swam to shore and bred with local dogs.

Browse dog breeds from Madagascar Browse more non-sporting breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
non-sporting
Size
Small
Origin country
Madagascar
Region
Tulear port
Origin year
1600 CE
Weight
8–15 lbs
Height
9–11 in
Lifespan
14–16 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Coton de Tulear is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongCotton LikeFluffy

Coton de Tulear is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Small, cotton-like white fluffy coat
  • Rectangular body with slightly longer than tall proportions
  • Dark, round, expressive eyes
  • Distinctive bouncy, clownish gait

What this breed is known for

  • The royal dog of Madagascar, named after the port city of Tuléar (now Toliara). Legend says they arrived on the island when a ship carrying small white dogs was wrecked off Madagascar's coast, and the survivors swam to shore and bred with local dogs.
  • For centuries, ownership was restricted to Malagasy nobility and wealthy families. They were so prized that commoners were forbidden from owning them, and they lived in royal palaces as pampered companions.
  • Nearly unknown outside Madagascar until French tourists discovered them in the 1960s and brought some to Europe. The breed almost went extinct during Madagascar's political upheaval but was saved by international breeding programs.

Health and care notes

Coton de Tulear is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Luxating Patella
  • Eye Conditions
  • Heart Conditions

Coat details: Long, Cotton Like, Fluffy

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Coton de Tulear come from?

Coton de Tulear is closely associated with Madagascar, especially Tulear port in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Coton de Tulear get?

Typical size details for Coton de Tulear on this page are 8–15 lbs, 9–11 in, 14–16 years.

What is the Coton de Tulear known for?

The royal dog of Madagascar, named after the port city of Tuléar (now Toliara). Legend says they arrived on the island when a ship carrying small white dogs was wrecked off Madagascar's coast, and the survivors swam to shore and bred with local dogs.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Coton de Tulear reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.