Coton De Tulear

Stories about how the Coton de Tulear came to be in Madagascar Island is quite unclear. Some theories claim that the original breed (Cotons de Reunion) swam to the shores of Madagascar after a shipwreck, while others suggest that they were deliberately brought to Madagascar and bred to local terrier-type dogs to develop today's Coton de Tulear.

This dog breed was heavily guarded by the Merina tribe in Madagascar from the 17th century, meaning no Coton was to be removed from the island. Later, Coton de Tulear is to be seen with Nobles and French Royalty. How this was possible is unknown, but it is assumed that a few select people were permitted to leave the island with a Coton de Tulear.

The breed was accepted and recognised in 1970 by the United Kennel Club. The Coton de Tulear is a rare breed and remains to be in limited numbers up to this day.

Being a small dog in the toy group, the Coton de Tulear weighs between 12 to 15 pounds and stands at 25 to 30 centimetres. Its distinct long and cotton-like fluffy coat is the obvious reason for its French name, Coton. The Coton de Tulear has soft hair (not fur) comparable to a cotton ball, distinguished black nose, large and round expressive eyes, and a short face. It closely resembles the Bichon Frise and Maltese.

To further emphasise its distinguishing feature, the Coton de Tulear has a coat that is thick and soft and described to be of fluffy and cottony texture. The coat comes in three accepted colours such as white, black and white, and tricolour. Coats may have a few shadings from light grey to red-roan on the ears.

Cotons shed minimally and are highly recommended for people with allergies as its soft and cotton-like fur is hypoallergenic. Make sure to remove matted hair through daily brushing and combing. The challenge in grooming a Coton de Tulear comes with its its doggie smell, which can be removed with a proper bath and grooming. You may bathe a Coton weekly or every two weeks, depending on how dirty and smelly it gets.

Aside from keeping its coat's pristine look, do not forget other aspects of grooming. Brush the teeth of a Coton at least twice or thrice a week to remove tartar and build-up of bacteria. Of course, nothing beats daily brushing if manageable. Its nails must also be trimmed at least twice a month. Ears must be cleaned to avoid infection, which is characterised by redness and tenderness. If you notice any certain abnormalities, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian.

• Senior and less active: up to 425 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 480 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 530 calories daily

Are you willing to be on a waiting list? The Coton de Tulear dog breed is rare. In fact, only a few puppies are bred and registered each year. And if you are quite lucky to be on the waitlist, you have to prepare at least £900 to £1,200 for a well-bred puppy. Once you've brought home your Coton puppy, don't forget to get a pet insurance for this breed. The cost to insure a Coton is anywhere from £20 to £40 a month.

Veterinary consultations is a must do if you want to make sure your Coton is healthy. The annual cost to bring a Coton to a veterinarian is £800. Don't fret, this estimate includes initial vaccinations, annual booster and spaying so the following years may not be as expensive. The cost to buy premium dog food must also be factored into your budget. Food for a small breed like the Coton will cost around £20 to £30.