Contents
Overview of Coton de Tulears
Breed
Coton de Tulear is a companion dog, an AKC designation that certifies a dog is able to perform obedience tasks.It is small but sturdy, with an expressive face and a hypoallergenic coat.The coton de Tulear is also known as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar.” Coton is the French word for cotton, which the breed’s white coat resembles, and Tulear is a town in Madagascar.
Coat
Dog breeds are interesting because they have been developed over a relatively short period of time in terms of evolution.For example, we now know that fur length is controlled in part by one or more variants in the fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5) gene.Further research will need to be carried out to determine what gene mutation resulted in the Coton de Tulear having such a soft, cotton-like coat.Many of these traits have been associated with genetic mutations including length, curl, growth pattern, shedding, and hairlessness.Specific dog breeds have been bred for desirable traits such as coat color and length.
Eye Problems
Coton de Tulears suffer from the usual ailments as they get older, including joint and eye problems.Some have even reached a grand old age of 20!They are also prone to allergies which can result in dry and itchy skin.They are incredibly healthy and less than 5% suffer from genetic health conditions.This dog breed is remarkably long-lived with most dogs living to between 14 and 19 years old.
Health
Coton de Tulears are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 14–17 years.Cotons are prone to a few minor medical conditions including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and “luxating patella (knee issues) and ocular issues,” Frione says. The most common health issues for cotons are skin allergies, which can lead to bacterial infections, and ear problems if not cleaned properly.
Hypoallergenic?
Coton de Tulears are advertised as hypoallergenic and belong to a group of dogs that shed very little or no fur at all.Certain dogs have been coined as hypoallergenic because they are less likely to trigger allergies in humans that are allergic to dog hair.The truth is that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog.Allergies in humans are caused by proteins found in canine dander and saliva.These hypoallergenic dogs still have these proteins but as they don’t shed as much as some other breeds, they are less likely to cause problems as they do not leave so much dander lying around.