Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  How many litters do you breed per year ? 

A:   This is not a Breeding Factory or a Puppy Farm. I breed one-three litters per year. Each breeding is carefully planned to produce an outstanding quality puppy that is healthy, of good temperament and is within the published standard for the breed.  I am not interested in over populating the world with Cotons.  Therefore I breed for Quality not Quantity.

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Q:  If you do not have pups available, can I go to a pet store to purchase a puppy ?

A:  Do NOT go to a Pet Store to purchase a puppy. Ethical breeders would never place their pups in a pet store to be purchased. We want to meet our puppy buyers and interview them so we’re sure our pups are going to an appropriate home. If I do not have pups available, I will refer you to other ethical breeders.

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Q:   Are Cotons good with children or people with allergies? 

A:   Cotons are usually an excellent choice for retirees as well as families with children.  The Coton’s  temperament is very affectionate and docile.  They love people and other pets.  Cotons are also considered hypo-allergenic which make them a possible choice for people who suffer from asthma or allergies.

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Q:  Are there any health concerns with the Coton de Tulear breed ?

A:  Yes, the Coton, while considered a relatively healthy breed, has had a few health problems show up.  Retinal dysplasia and PRA are eye diseases of concern in the breed.  There is an extremely rare disease know as Bandera’s syndrome that has been seen. Patellas and thyroid should be normal.  It is of the utmost importance that your chosen breeder performs comprehensive health testing before breeding, for the health of the breed and for your peace of mind.

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Q: What are the temperament differences of the sexes ?

A: There really is not much of a difference. Generally speaking, males are more loyal and loving, females are more playful and independent in my opinion.  

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Q: If I buy a puppy from you, will it be paper trained ? 

A: I work to have all of my dogs wee-wee pad trained. I start the puppies on wee-wee pads when they are 4 weeks old and they are fairly well-trained by 9 weeks. 

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Q: Do you breed to FCI standards?

A: This topic has sometimes created a heated discussion among breeders. FCI standards call for the breed to be  8-13 lbs and 10-12” in shoulder height.  It is unethical to purposely breed for undersized or oversized cotons.  My goal is to breed something I can show and I prefer 10-12 lbs., respectfully staying within the standard.

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Q: Are you involved with Coton Rescue?

A: I believe all responsible breeders should be involved in breed rescue whether fostering, transporting, or donating funds.  I fully support UCARE, the recognized coton rescue group.

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Q: Why do you show your dogs ?

A: By striving for perfection and competing with our dogs, we  hope to ensure the quality of our present and future Cotons. Showing is but one part of trying to use the best dogs for our breeding program.  Health and temperament are foremost in our program.

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Q: Do you sell show puppies ?

A: Yes, I sell show prospects. Cotons were meant to be family dogs. I feel that I cannot and will not keep a numerous amount of dogs. For that reason, I will place show puppies in responsible homes on show/breeding contracts. Contact me if you are interested in showing.  I will help you show the puppy and help you learn the how to show the dog yourself.