Coton de Tulear Grooming Tips

A rare breed, a Coton de Tulear can be a difficult dog to find, and even more expensive to purchase. They are intelligent and friendly and do well in home with small children and other pets. They can be protective of their families. Though small at 9 to 16 lbs., the Coton de Tulear is typically healthy and easy to train, and can live up to 17 years. These dogs have long white coats, so if you choose to bring a Coton into your home, be prepared to spend some time grooming it every day.

  1. Conditioning Your Coton de Tulear to Be Groomed

    • Start grooming your puppy as soon as you bring it home. The younger it is, the easier it will be to help your puppy get accustomed to grooming. Start with very short sessions of just a few minutes. Talk to your puppy in a friendly voice, praise it and reward it with treats. Do this every time you attempt any type of grooming, such as brushing, bathing or nail trimming. Being rewarded during grooming sessions will teach your Coton that grooming can be a positive and pleasant experience.

    Brushing

    • This is by far the task that you will spend the most time on, unless you keep your dog's long white coat cut short. Coton coats need brushing every day to keep from becoming tangled and matted. Coton's are a non-shedding breed, and brushing can also remove excess fur and keep your dog's coat from looking dull or shagging. Take at least 10 minutes every day to brush through your Coton's coat with a metal-toothed comb and brush.

    Bathing

    • Cotons are not exceptionally dirty dogs, but they should be bathed every two to three weeks, according to guidelines by Cotonwind Coton de Tulear, a Coton breeding club in Canada. This will keep their coats and skin healthy and clean. Use a dog formula shampoo to prevent skin irritation. Using a conditioner during bath times will help moisturize the skin as well as the coat, and will make brushing easier. Your Coton's long fur will trap shampoo and conditioner, so rinse it thoroughly. Avoid shampooing around your dog's eyes. If you have to shampoo its head, guard its eyes with your hand while rinsing.

    Nail Trimming

    • If your Coton de Tulear's nails get too long, they can curl under and make it difficult or even painful for your dog to walk. Purchase nail trimmers that are made for small breeds. In general, your dog's nails need to be cut when they are long enough to click against the floor as it walks. If the nails are white, look for a dark or pink spot. This is the quick, a bundle of nerves that will bleed when cut. Trim the nail just below this point.

    Eye &Ear Care

    • Clean your Coton de Tulear's ears at least twice a week with ear solution and cotton balls. Gently swab out the inside of the ear to remove any dirt or oil that can cause ear infections. Try your dog's ears thoroughly after each cleaning and after baths. Moisture can also cause infection. If you notice any smelly or brown buildup in your dog's ears, take it to a veterinarian to be treated. If your Coton's eyes seem to ooze, gently wipe away any mess with a damp cloth whenever necessary. This can prevent infections and keep the white fur under your dog's eyes from becoming tear stains.