Care & Groom
The Coton de Tulear earned its name due to its fluffy, cotton-like coat. The coton’s coat should maintain a natural, wind-tossed look. This requires brushing 3 or 4 times weekly to prevent matting; however, the coat is probably the easiest to maintain of the long-hair breeds. I find that brushing removes dirt and keeps the coat clean as well, reducing the frequency of bathing. Cotons do not shed, but will lose hair in the grooming process which is easily removed and discarded. Their hair is hypoallergenic, a plus for sensitive people.
There is no standard “hair-cut” for the Coton, as with poodles or some other breeds. In fact, the only area that will require scissors at all is between the pads of the feet and around the nails. This makes it easier to see the nails for trimming. Cotons are small dogs and don’t weigh enough to wear down their nails. Therefore, the nails should be trimmed monthly with a quality nail clipper made for dogs, or a grinder such as a Dremel tool. I have one dog who makes it impossible for me to trim his nails so I take him to the veterinarian to have it done.
Grooming needs:
- Slicker brush for legs and paws
- Pin brush, 27 mm Large and 20 mm small
- Metal greyhound comb
- Flea comb for removing eye crud
- Round-tip scissors
- Nail clipper or grinder (Dremel tool)
- Detangle Spray, such as Chris Christensen's ICE ON ICE
The slicker brush will remove much of the undercoat. To preserve the undercoat, use only the pin brush and comb on the body, and reserve the slicker brush for the feet. I have found that it is worth the money to invest in quality grooming tools. I prefer brushes by Chris Christensen Systems.
My goal in life is to be as good a person as my dog thinks I am.- Anonymous