Coton Tzu
Hybrid Breed Description
The Coton Tzu is a cross between the Coton De Tulear and the Shih Tzu. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Coton Tzu. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Coton De Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, sturdy companion dog standing between nine and eleven inches tall at the shoulder, with males reaching slightly taller heights. Females typically weigh between eight and thirteen pounds, while males range from nine to fifteen pounds. This breed features a rectangular body outline, being somewhat longer than it is tall, creating a well-proportioned appearance without any suggestion of fragility. The compact body structure is supported by short legs ending in small, arched feet, and the breed carries itself with a proud demeanor, head held high and tail typically curved over the back in a characteristic display. The breed's most distinctive feature is its soft, cotton-like coat that gives the Coton its name. This long, fluffy, hypoallergenic coat is primarily white, though light shading in tan, gray, or champagne hues may appear on the ears. The coat texture feels exceptionally soft and dense, with a slight wave adding to its cloud-like appearance. The Coton's facial features include a small, triangular-shaped head with dark, round, expressive eyes that convey intelligence and joy, and a prominent black nose. The breed sports triangular, pendant ears that hang close to the head and are covered in soft fur. The overall expression radiates what enthusiasts call "joie de vivre" - a zest for life that perfectly captures the breed's cheerful disposition and endearing charm that has made them beloved companions for centuries.
Key Characteristics
The Coton de Tulear is renowned for its exceptionally happy and adaptable temperament, making it an ideal companion dog. These intelligent and affectionate dogs form remarkably strong bonds with their families and thrive on human interaction, often following their owners from room to room throughout the day. They are naturally clownish and playful, frequently performing amusing tricks and antics to entertain their families, yet they maintain a calm and easygoing demeanor that makes them suitable for various living situations. Despite their cheerful nature, Cotons are also highly alert and can serve as excellent watchdogs, barking to announce visitors without being excessively yappy or aggressive. Their sociable personality extends to children and other pets, making them wonderful family companions when properly socialized. Cotons demonstrate remarkable intelligence and eagerness to please, which translates into excellent trainability. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement methods and can master obedience commands, tricks, and even excel in therapy work due to their sympathetic awareness of those around them. The breed is highly adaptable to different lifestyles and living environments, thriving equally in apartments or larger homes as long as their emotional needs for companionship are met. However, this deep attachment to their families means Cotons can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, making them best suited for households where someone is frequently present. These dogs maintain a puppy-like enthusiasm throughout their lives, enjoying moderate exercise through daily walks and playful activities, though they don't require extensive physical activity. Cotons are generally quiet dogs but possess unique vocalizations, including soft grunts and engaging sounds that seem conversational. Their gentle, patient nature makes them particularly suitable for families with children, seniors, and individuals seeking a devoted, affectionate companion. The breed's combination of intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability, paired with their entertaining personality, creates a truly exceptional companion dog that brings joy and laughter to any household fortunate enough to welcome them.
The Coton de Tulear is generally a healthy breed with an impressive lifespan ranging from fourteen to nineteen years, which is exceptionally long for a small dog. While they are relatively free from major genetic health issues, prospective owners should be aware of several conditions that can affect the breed. Most commonly, Cotons may experience luxating patellas, where the kneecap occasionally slips out of place, causing sudden limping or hopping on a hind leg. This hereditary condition ranges from mild cases requiring only rest and weight management to more severe instances necessitating surgical correction. Progressive retinal atrophy is another concern, causing gradual vision loss that typically begins with night blindness and may progress to complete blindness, though dogs often adapt remarkably well with supportive care and environmental modifications. Intervertebral disc disease represents a more serious concern in some Coton lines, affecting the spinal cord and potentially causing weakness in the hind legs or, in severe cases, paralysis. This condition is not painful but requires careful management and monitoring. Dental health deserves particular attention in this breed, as their small mouths make them prone to plaque buildup, tartar accumulation, and periodontal disease. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and home brushing, is essential for preventing tooth loss and associated systemic health issues. Additionally, Cotons may develop allergies manifesting as skin irritation, ear infections, or digestive sensitivities. Despite these potential health concerns, responsible breeders actively work to minimize genetic health issues through careful health testing and selective breeding practices. Hip dysplasia, while less common in small breeds, can occasionally occur in Cotons and should be monitored. The breed also has predisposition to certain genetic conditions such as primary hyperoxaluria and von Willebrand's disease, though these are relatively rare. Regular veterinary checkups, maintaining a healthy weight, providing appropriate exercise, and ensuring proper grooming and dental care are essential for maximizing the Coton's health and longevity. With conscientious preventive care and attention to these breed-specific concerns, Coton de Tulears typically enjoy long, healthy, active lives as cherished family companions well into their senior years.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy toy breed standing eight to eleven inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between nine and sixteen pounds, with little size difference between males and females. This ancient breed possesses a compact, robust build that is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a rectangular silhouette without appearing exaggerated or fragile. The breed carries itself with remarkable pride and dignity, often holding its head high with an almost regal bearing that reflects its aristocratic heritage. The tail curves distinctively over the back in a characteristic plume, adding to the breed's elegant appearance. The Shih Tzu's most striking feature is its luxurious, long, flowing double coat that can grow to sweep the ground if left untrimmed. This dense coat comes in virtually any color combination including gold, white, black, liver, brindle, and various multi-colored patterns, all of which are equally acceptable according to breed standards. The coat's silky texture requires substantial maintenance to prevent matting and tangling. The breed's facial features are particularly distinctive, with hair growing upward from the nose and radiating outward in all directions like a chrysanthemum flower, often requiring a topknot to keep hair out of the eyes. The Shih Tzu's head is broad and rounded with a short, square muzzle measuring no more than one inch from the tip to the stop. Large, dark, round eyes set wide apart create an expression of warmth and trust, though the eyes are notably prominent due to the breed's brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure. The nose is typically black with wide nostrils, positioned at or slightly above eye level. Small, pendant ears hang close to the head and are covered with long, flowing hair that blends into the neck coat. The undershot bite, where lower teeth protrude slightly beyond the upper teeth, is characteristic and acceptable for the breed. Despite their small size and flowing coat, Shih Tzus possess surprising sturdiness and move with a smooth, effortless gait that demonstrates their sound structure beneath all that magnificent hair.
Key Characteristics
The Shih Tzu is celebrated for its exceptionally affectionate, friendly, and outgoing personality that makes them one of the most beloved companion breeds. These dogs were bred specifically to be companions for royalty, and they take this role seriously, thriving on human interaction and forming intensely strong bonds with their families. They are remarkably adaptable dogs, equally content in apartments or large homes, urban or rural settings, as long as their beloved humans are nearby. Shih Tzus possess a playful, sometimes mischievous nature and love engaging in games and activities with their families, though their exercise requirements are relatively modest with short daily walks and indoor play sessions typically sufficient. These intelligent dogs are generally eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, though they can display a stubborn, independent streak that requires patient, consistent guidance. They are typically gentle and patient with children and get along well with other dogs and pets when properly socialized, making them excellent family companions. Unlike many toy breeds, Shih Tzus rarely display aggression and maintain a friendly demeanor toward strangers once proper introductions are made. However, their small size and delicate features mean they require supervision around very young children to prevent accidental injury. Shih Tzus are not particularly vocal dogs, barking primarily to alert their families to visitors or unusual occurrences rather than engaging in excessive yapping. They possess a confident, sometimes proud temperament that can border on arrogance, though this is part of their charm. These dogs crave attention and companionship, often becoming jealous if they feel neglected or if attention is directed elsewhere. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, making them best suited for households where someone is frequently present. Shih Tzus are sensitive dogs that respond poorly to harsh training methods, requiring gentle, positive approaches. Their combination of loyalty, affection, playfulness, and adaptability, paired with their manageable size and relatively low exercise needs, makes them ideal companions for families, seniors, and individuals seeking a devoted, loving lap dog that brings joy and companionship to daily life.
The Shih Tzu generally enjoys a relatively long lifespan of thirteen to fifteen years and is considered a fairly healthy breed overall, though their distinctive brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure predisposes them to several health concerns. As with many flat-faced breeds, Shih Tzus are susceptible to breathing difficulties, heat intolerance, and respiratory issues due to their shortened airways. They are particularly prone to heat stroke and must be carefully monitored in hot, humid weather to prevent overheating. Exercise should be moderated during warm conditions, and owners must ensure adequate cooling and hydration. Dental problems represent one of the most common health issues affecting Shih Tzus. Their small mouths often result in overcrowded teeth, leading to increased risk of periodontal disease, tartar buildup, and tooth decay. Malocclusions, where the teeth don't align properly due to their undershot jaw, can cause additional dental complications. Regular dental care including professional cleanings and daily brushing is essential for maintaining oral health and preventing associated systemic issues. Eye problems are another significant concern, as the breed's prominent, protruding eyes are vulnerable to various conditions including corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, dry eye syndrome, and entropion where eyelashes turn inward and irritate the eye. Orthopedic issues can affect Shih Tzus, particularly luxating patella where the kneecap slips out of position, causing pain and mobility problems. Hip dysplasia, while less common in small breeds, occasionally occurs and should be monitored. Portosystemic liver shunt, a condition where blood bypasses the liver and impairs its function, can cause stunted growth, seizures, and behavioral changes if present. The breed is also predisposed to renal cortical hypoplasia affecting kidney development, umbilical hernias, and inguinal hernias. Ear infections are relatively common due to their pendulous, hair-covered ears that can trap moisture and debris. Skin fold dermatitis may occur in facial wrinkles if not properly cleaned and dried. Despite these potential health concerns, with conscientious preventive care, regular veterinary checkups, appropriate grooming attention, weight management, and careful monitoring of their breathing and heat tolerance, Shih Tzus typically live long, happy lives as cherished family companions.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Coton Tzu may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Coton De Tulear and Shih Tzu to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.