Coton De Tulear

Patellar Luxation

Legg-Perthes Disease

Hip Dysplasia

Heart murmurs

Cotons require 3/4 cups of high-quality food, divided into two meals. Maintain proper weight, but be careful not to overfeed them. Groomers and veterinarians often see overweight dogs. Any diet should be appropriate to their age. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

The Coton de Tuléar has a medium-to-long, fluffy, cotton-like coat that sheds moderately. Brushing them once a week with a rubber grooming mitt or tool or a de-shedding glove will help remove dead hair and maintain its appearance.

Keeping them clean and neat does not take so much effort. Begin accustoming them to being brushed and examined when they are still a puppy.

Their coat will require 20 to 30 minutes of brushing a day for few times a week. Handle their paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside their mouth. Trim their nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn't wear them down naturally to prevent painful tears and other problems.

Their ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odour, which can indicate an infection. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.

Cotons need a daily 30 to 40 minutes of exercise to keep them active and healthy. They appreciate a stroll in the park, water activities and happily join in with games at home. However, do not require them to have excessive daily activity. They are obedient and is a good playmate for children!

Regular visits to their vet will ensure their health and well-being. Schedule at least twice a year veterinary care or as recommended depending on your dog's state. In these visits, your vet will complete a physical examination, take your dog's temperature and check his heartbeat, among other things.

Discuss with your vet any concerns you think needs immediate attention as it is a key part of preventative care.

Cotons are people-oriented and sociable dogs that enjoy being around their family. They love children and is a good family companion. Their sweet demeanour makes them adorable to everyone, especially that they are very affectionate.

Like with other breeds, they also need early and proper socialization.

Coton de Tulears are smart dogs that enjoy learning tricks and formal obedience training. They love pleasing their family, but they can be stubborn at times because they love to do things on their own.

It is advisable to use lots of praise and positive reinforcement to motivate them more when doing training.

Coton de Tulears are friendly and loving dogs who get along well with other dogs and cats. They are charming family pets who enjoy meeting new friends but will need early and proper socialization training to teach them how to behave around other pets.

Bringing them to a park will help them get used to meeting new friends.