Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulear Care Summary

Coton care is dominated by the coat and by the dog's need for company. The cottony coat is low-shedding but high-effort: it tangles and mats easily, especially during the soft puppy-to-adult coat change around 8-15 months. Brush and comb thoroughly to the skin 4-5 times a week (effectively daily during the coat change) — surface-brushing alone leaves mats forming underneath that then require shaving. Bathe every 3-4 weeks with a gentle shampoo and conditioner; many pet owners keep the coat in a shorter 'puppy clip' to cut the daily burden, which is a legitimate trade-off, not a failure. Check and dry ears weekly, trim nails every 2-3 weeks, and keep the eye area clean to limit tear staining on the white coat. Exercise is moderate for a small dog: 30 minutes of walking and play daily plus indoor activity keeps a healthy adult fit and mentally satisfied; they enjoy games and training. Keep the dog lean — small joints suffer fast from extra weight, worsening patellar and hip problems. The behavioral care task is preventing separation distress: build alone-time tolerance gradually from puppyhood, and if the household is out all day, plan for a walker, daycare, or companionship rather than hoping the dog adapts. Decision rule: a Coton puppy that cannot stand or walk normally, falls to one side, or moves with 'swimming' uncoordinated motions in its first weeks is not clumsy — that is the presentation of Bandera's neonatal ataxia; it is untreatable and DNA-preventable, so this is a breeder-screening question to settle before purchase, not a wait-and-see at home.