The Cotonese is a hybrid of Coton de Tulear and Maltese. Since it is a designer dog, not much is known about its origin.
Temperament & Personality
It is an amiable and jolly dog that loves playing with family members. Leaving them alone for a long time will grow aggressiveness and destructive behavior in them. They mingle well with kids and are without doubt excellent family dogs. As watchdogs, these dogs are very efficient as they bark whenever they spot strangers.
Exercise
Daily walks in a dog park of a fenced area and play-sessions with the owner will give the dog constant mental and physical stimulation. The Cotonese adjusts well to apartment life.
Grooming
Brushing the fluffy coat of the Cotonese three to four times a day will avoid tangles and matting. To remove the coarse layer of skin, the owner can just pluck it or strip it. Brush their teeth every day to prevent dental issues and clip its long nails with the right tools.
Health Problems
Like most dogs, they have chances of hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. When they get old, there is a minor chance of getting cataract, heart diseases and arthritis.
Training
They are willing to please and very intelligent, which makes the exercise easier. The owner must be firm but not strict. Help them socialize with other people to remove their stranger anxiety. Obedience training is vital to keep their behavior in check. During leash training, instruct it not to pull the leash.
Feeding
Nourishing food items like dog biscuits, meat, and milk are vital for the Cotonese’s growth. With the dog’s age, size and metabolism, the amount of food may vary.