Coton Tzu

Dog Breed Profile

Coton Tzu History

The Coton is a medium to large-sized toy Spitz-type of terrier, originating in France. The first recorded ancestors of the Coton de Tulear date back as far as the 1500s. The Registre National Inter Cantonal des Chiens (RNCI), a French canine registry, recognizes the breed as officially established on July 2, 1966. The Coton is relatively new to the United States, where it was first introduced in 1980. The Coton is considered to be a non-shedding, hypoallergenic, and hypo-allergenic hybrid between the Bichon Frise and the Shih Tzu. The Coton is a friendly, playful, and intelligent breed of dog. The coat of the Coton is white with grey, black, or silver hair. The ears of the Coton are usually erect, but may be floppy. The eye color of the Coton is brown, but may also include green or golden. The tail of the Coton is carried low and is docked to approximately 3 inches.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Coton de Tulear, Shih Tzu

Coton Tzu Physical Characteristics

The Coton Tzu is a small, medium sized, long-haired breed of domestic dog. They are known for their distinctive red and white, curly, tight curls, and for their calm temperaments. They originated in Africa and are typically kept as pets.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

White, Black, Cream, Brindle, Brown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 8 – 12 inches

Female Height Range: 7 – 11 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 9 – 16 lbs

Female Weight Range: 8 – 15 lbs

Coton Tzu Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Coton Tzu Health Concerns

Patellar Luxation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hip Dysplasia, Bladder Stones, Heart Disease, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Liver Shunts

Coton Tzu Temperament and Behaviour

The Coton Tzy is a playful, sweet, and devoted pet. They are wonderful companions to their owners and prefer to be around them as much as possible. They are adaptable, love to be cuddled, and are very tolerant. They are easy to train, and although they can be a bit stubborn, they typically respond well to treats. They enjoy being around kids and are often patient with them.

Coton Tzu Activity Requirements

The Coton is a happy, playful, and loyal little dog. They are often compared to teddy bears. These sweet pups make great companions for apartment dwellers or people who travel frequently. While they may not require a lot of physical exercise, Cotons do require regular interaction with their humans. They are happiest when they can be with their people. A daily walk or quick game of tug or fetch is a good way to keep your Coton feeling happy. While a Coton can be happy with some alone time, they thrive on being with their people. They are extremely devoted to their human families. A lonely, bored, or neglected Coton can develop behavioral issues. This sensitive breed of dog does not respond well to being left alone.