It is hard to say anything for sure about where Coton de Tulear origins. The legend say that... once upon a time, in 1500 a ship sunk near to the coast of Madagaskar. The only survivors were two small white dogs. They managed to reach the town called Tulear.

Of course it is just a legend.

Coton de Tulear is a member of Bichon family. It is a rare, ancient pure-breed that originated on Madagaskar about year 1500. First, Cotons were popular in France but now they are popular all over the world.

In 1971 the breed was officially recognised by FCI and added to Group 9: Companion & toy dogs (without working trial).

Cotons are very intelligent, gentle and outgoing. They are "family dogs" because they get along well not only with grown-ups and kids but also with other pets. Moreover they are easy to train and very clean dogs.

Cotons are qiute small dogs - between 24-33 cm tall and weigh around 5-8 kg. They have dark engaging eyes, black lips and a medium-lenght muzzle tipped with a black nose.

Name of breed derives from its unique, cotton-like hair. Its dry, wind-tossed coat is incredibly easy to maintain but still it requires regular grooming. It sheds little so it seems to be proper breed for those who suffer from allergies.