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COTON DE TULEAR |
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Bichon dogs from
Tenerife were brought to Madagascar and nearby islands on trade ships,
probably before the 17th century. From these original imports came the
Colon de Reunion, an extinct breed once known on Reunion Island. The descendants
of the Coton de Reunion became established near the city of Tulear, Madagascar,
and developed into the breed known as the Coton de Tulear.
The Coton (French
for cotton) became a favorite of the merina, the French nobility
on the island during the colonial days. In fact, prior to the 20th century,
it was considered criminal for a commoner to own a Coton. This canine
social climber soon took on the title of the "Dog of Royalty"
and, even today, only socially promi-
nent Malagasy own a Tulear. This breed is
devoted to its masters, wanting always to be in their presence and trying
its best to please. Because of these traits, the Coton requires little
in the way of discipline to create a fine companion. He is a dog only
for a house pet, as he is so happy and friendly that he will not defend
himself. Like the other bichon dogs,-however, he is alert and intelligent
and will inform his master of unusual events. As long as he is primarily
a house dog, he adapts well to almost any environment or climate. The
breed is healthy and vigorous despite its small size, and requires only
a bit of regular brushing to keep it handsome. One of their most endearing
traits is a tendency to jump and walk on their hind legs.
Like the other
bichons, the hair needs regular grooming to keep the dogs looking their
cuddly best. Shedding on all the bichons is minimal and an advantage to
allergic owners. The Coton's expression is ''enquiring and adoring."
They achieved
FCI recognition in 1970 and are being fostered by the Coton de Tulear
Club of America. They are still rare throughout the world.
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