Coton de Tulear
Male: 4-6 kg; Female: 3.5-5 kg
Male: 25-30 cm; Female: 22-27 cm at the shoulder
14-16 years
Madagascar
About the Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a charming, small companion dog originating from the island of Madagascar. Often referred to as the 'Royal Dog of Madagascar,' this breed is distinguished by its extraordinary white, cotton-textured coat and its bright, dark, expressive eyes. They were strictly guarded by Malagasy royalty for centuries, which helped preserve their distinct characteristics before they gained international recognition in the late 20th century. Physically, they are slightly longer than they are tall, with a topline that is slightly convex, ending in a low-set tail that curves over the back when the dog is in motion. Beyond their striking appearance, Cotons are renowned for their 'Velcro dog' nature, forming deep emotional bonds with their human families. They are highly intelligent and often walk on their hind legs to please their owners or get attention. Because they were bred solely for companionship, they possess a keen ability to read human emotions and adapt their energy level to suit the household. They are sturdy for their size and possess a surprising amount of stamina, making them excellent partners for both apartment dwellers and active families.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Coton de Tulear presents a silhouette of rustic elegance, characterized by a slightly convex 'roach' back and a wind-swept, voluminous white coat that must remain natural and never sculpted. Their movement is effortless and bouncy, exhibiting a free trot that showcases their sturdy construction. Unlike many toy breeds that can be aloof, the Coton’s structure and temperament combine to create a dog that is both physically resilient and emotionally intuitive, possessing a unique 'cottony' texture found in no other breed.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this breed’s introduction were not located.
Bred For
Primarily developed as a companion dog for the Merina royalty and nobility of Madagascar.
Temperament
Cheerful, intelligent, and highly sociable. Known for a 'clown-like' personality, they are remarkably stable and adaptable, exhibiting a unique vocal range of grunts and chortles.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate. They require daily walks and plenty of indoor play. While they are active and enjoy agility or fetch, they are equally happy to lounge with their owners.
Grooming Needs
High. Their unique cotton-like coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting. They are a non-shedding breed, but the coat traps dead hair and debris easily.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living due to their size and relatively calm indoor demeanor. They do well in small homes but require regular outdoor access for mental stimulation.
Good with Kids
Generally very good with children, especially those who are old enough to handle a small dog gently.
Good with Other Pets
Exceptional. They are known for being highly compatible with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats and other household pets.
Trainability
High. They are eager to please and very bright, though they can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Positive reinforcement and play-based training work best.
Coat & Colours
Single coat, long, and very supple. The texture is reminiscent of cotton—never silky or oily.. Predominantly white. Some slight shading of light grey or red-roan (mixture of white and fawn hairs) is permissible on the ears.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Coton de Tulear is more likely to experience separation anxiety; they are true companion dogs and may become distressed if left alone for long periods, so they thrive best in households where someone is home most of the day. Their magnificent coat is prone to heavy matting if not brushed daily, especially during the transition from puppy to adult coat—this requires a dedicated grooming routine or regular professional clips. Like many small breeds, they are predisposed to dental disease and overcrowded teeth, so daily teeth brushing and raw meaty bones are helpful preventative measures. They can also be susceptible to luxating patellas (kneecap slipping), so maintaining a lean weight is essential to reduce joint stress. Additionally, while generally healthy, some Cotons are more likely to develop digestive sensitivities or skin allergies when fed standard commercial kibble containing high fillers; many owners find they thrive significantly better on a single-protein fresh or raw diet. They are also quite vocal, using a variety of unique sounds to communicate, which is a charming trait but one that owners should be prepared for.
Feeding Guide for Your Coton de Tulear
Healthy Weight
3.5-6 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
85-180 grams of fresh food per day, depending on the individual dog's weight and activity level.
For a typical adult Coton weighing 5kg, a fresh food diet should consist of approximately 125g per day, split into two meals. This should be adjusted based on activity levels, with a focus on lean proteins like kangaroo or chicken to prevent unnecessary weight gain on their small frames.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A diet rich in high-quality animal proteins with moderate fat levels. They respond exceptionally well to fresh, species-appropriate diets that support skin health and maintain a healthy weight.
A balanced raw diet for a Coton should feature lean Australian proteins like Majestik’s kangaroo or premium beef. Inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed is vital to support their voluminous coat. Because of their small mouths, ensuring bone components are appropriately sized or ground is critical for safety.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Coton de Tulear Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Coton de Tulear? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.