Did you know that the Coton de Tulear, nicknamed the “Royal Dog of Madagascar,” was once considered a royal breed solely for the Malagasy nobles? This fluffy, charming four-legged individual holds an aristocratic background, boasting nearly three decades of loyalty to Madagascar royals. Today, with their cloud-like fleece and amiable personality, Cotons are spreading joy not only among royalty but also within everyday families.
Now the real question is this, do these adorable, regal canines turn out to be a difficult breed to manage and train? As we dig deeper, you’ll discover that the answer is not as straightforward as it seems. The difficulty of raising a Coton de Tulear depends largely on your perspective and the lifestyle you live.
Let’s get you acquainted with the essence of a Coton de Tulear. These dogs pack a big personality in a petite, furry bundle. Weighing between 8 to 15 pounds, and standing at about 10 to 12 inches tall, Cotons are small dogs with a hearty appetite for playfulness and affection. They are renowned for their beautiful, cottony coats, primarily white, with their jubilant eyes appearing as though they always have a joke they can’t wait to share.
So, why might some people find these bouncy little fur balls difficult? Here are a few grounds to consider.
Firstly, Cotons are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their beautiful cotton-like coats require daily brushing to avoid matting and tangling. Without sufficient combing, they can quickly turn into a walking mop, and trust me, matted Cotons aren’t as adorable. Regular trips to groomers may be required if you aren’t a pro with a pair of shears.
Secondly, Cotons are notorious for their separation anxiety. This breed thrives on human companionship, making them possibly more of an extension of your family than merely a pet! They dislike being left alone for extended periods. If you hold a demanding job that requires you to remain away for the majority of the day, your little Coton might find itself in distress.
Thirdly, they can be a bit too friendly. Coton de Tulears love people, and they aren’t hesitant to express their fondness to strangers. If they aren’t trained properly about good behavior, they can turn obnoxiously friendly, which can make them run after any stranger they see.
Still, with every challenge arises an opportunity. And there are numerous reasons Cotons can make an amazing family pet with just a bit of guidance and proper training.
When it comes to the grooming issue, accustomed Cotons enjoy the brushing sessions, associating it with the time they spend with their owners. Take this time to bond with your pet, making them comfortable, which will eventually make grooming a fun activity for both of you. Start early when they’re still young to cultivate brushing into a daily ritual.
Addressing the separation anxiety issue, the key is to condition your Coton that departures aren’t always permanent from an early age. Start by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually extend the duration. Ensure they have many toys to keep them engaged when you’re not around. Importantly, never make a scene when you leave or come back home, as this will only heighten their anxiety levels.
As for their over-enthused friendliness, it can be curbed through training. Impart good manners to your puppies, teaching them to sit quietly when they see new faces. Make sure you reward them with their favorite treats whenever they behave appropriately around strangers. Remember, persistence and patience are key!
In conclusion, the Coton de Tulear isn’t necessarily a difficult breed — yet, as with any dog, potential challenges need to be understood along with the commitment required. If you’re looking for an emotionally intelligent, playful, and loyal companion that thrives on human interaction, the Coton de Tulear might just be the perfect fit for you. While challenges may arise in raising this adorable furball, the rewards of their companionship far outweigh the difficulties. After all, a little bit of difficulty is a small price to pay for unconditional love, isn’t it?
In the next article, we’ll talk about tips and tricks to train your Coton effectively, ensuring your journey remains as cottony soft as the coat of your Coton de Tulear!
