🐾 Small · Madagascar

Coton de Tulear: Size, Weight & Temperament

A small Madagascan companion breed with a white, cotton-soft coat, a friendly temperament, and a balanced disposition that bonds closely with its owners and gets along well with children.

Beginner-friendly
Coton de Tulear dog breed portrait
Photo: Uschi Goess · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male4–6 kg
Weight female3,5–5 kg
Shoulder height22–30 cm
Size classSmall (under 12 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 10 months
Life expectancy14–16 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginMadagascar
ClassificationFCI Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1.3, Standard No. 283
Temperament & character

Cheerful, affectionate, and playful well into old age. Rarely aggressive or fearful, instead highly people-oriented and adaptable to a variety of households.

Exercise & stimulation

Moderate exercise needs; daily walks and play sessions are sufficient. No need for top athletic performance, though it happily takes on mental enrichment.

Grooming

Continuous hair growth without seasonal shedding means brushing several times a week and regular clipping or trimming are necessary. Keep an eye on the eye area given the light coat color.

Suitable for beginners?

Its good-natured, adaptable temperament makes the breed well suited to beginners. The grooming effort involved should not be underestimated.

Health & common problems

Patellar luxation occurs, along with occasional eye disorders. Overall a robust breed with comparatively few known hereditary conditions.

Good with: Families, children, seniors, apartment living

Is your Coton de Tulear at a healthy weight? Calculate the ideal weight and the right portion size for free in the Souldog app.

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.