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About the Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear, pronounced "coe-TAWN day TULE-ee-r," is a rare and ancient pure-breed that originated on the island of Madagascar over three centuries ago. Its name, meaning "cotton of Tulear," refers to its fluffy, cotton-like coat. The Coton was once exclusively owned by the Royal Malagasy nobles, earning it the title "Royal Dog of Madagascar." Despite its regal history, Cotons are known for their gentle and laid-back nature, making them great family pets. 

Happy-go-lucky, Clowning, Companion dog

They are intelligent and easy to train, and get along well with children and other pets. Additionally, they have a calm and sturdy demeanor, and often retain their playful puppy-like spirit well into their senior years. However, it's important to note that a dog's behavior is influenced by both genetics and environment, so early socialization and training are key to ensuring a well-behaved Coton de Tulear.

Highly Adaptable | Playful | Affectionate | Allergy-friendly

The Rare Coton de Tulear

Average Life Span: 15-19 years

Temperament: Cotons provide amusement, comfort, and companionship, and their bond with their owners is incredibly tight. They are witty, naturally clownish, and have a gentle, sympathetic awareness. They have unique vocalizations and a knack for walking on their hind legs, which adds to their amusing traits.

Size: "Height at withers less than 13" (33 cm). Bodyweight less than 18 pounds (8.2 Kg)."  

 (https://www.cotonclub.org/the-standard)

Color:  Three color varieties are recognized without preference. White, Black-and-White,  Tri-Color.

"White is the most frequently seen color variety, but a Black-and-White male won the coveted Championship of Madagascar in 1974.  The Tri-Color has been honored on an official postage stamp of the Repoblika Demokratika Malagasy (Madagascar)." (https://www.cotonclub.org/the-standard)

Health Issues: The Coton de Tulear has remained fairly free of genetic health issues.

Grooming Requirements: If you're not keeping your Coton in a short 'puppy clip,' daily brushing is a must. Comb and brush gently all the way to the skin to avoid matting. Use a spray conditioner while brushing to prevent breakage.

Good with Children| Good with other Dogs| No/Low Shedding

A Bit Of Background

We started breeding these wonderful animals in 2024. Originally, we just wanted a wonderful pet for ourselves. However, we became hooked and soon we added a second one to our family.

After acquiring a lot of information about the breeding process, we decided to do our part in preserving it, which led to the birth of our Jac Be Nimble Cotons. Since then, we’ve known so much love, joy and excitement! Contact us to find out more.

“You think those dogs will not be in heaven! I tell you they will be there long before any of us.”

Robert Louis Stevenson

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About Jac Be Nimble Cotons — Coton de Tulear Puppies in Iowa

Looking for a healthy Coton de Tulear puppy in Iowa, the Midwest, or beyond?
At Jac Be Nimble Cotons, we take pride in our comprehensive, intentional approach to breeding healthy, well-adjusted purebred Coton de Tulear puppies. Located on our farm in South Central Iowa, we are dedicated to producing sound companions with exceptional temperaments, integrating preventative herbal and holistic care to support lifelong vitality.

What is your breeding philosophy and approach?
Our breeding philosophy centers on structural soundness, preservation of the breed standard, and optimal neurological development. Our puppies undergo robust neurodevelopmental protocols, including Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Early Scent Introduction (ESI), alongside comprehensive early socialization, real-world desensitization, and foundational potty training utilizing both litter boxes and outdoor options.

What are your health testing and health guarantee standards?
If you are searching for Coton de Tulear puppies with strong health guarantees in Iowa, you can trust our rigorous standards. Health and genetic transparency are top priorities at Jac Be Nimble. Every breeding dog in our program is extensively health-screened by a licensed veterinarian in strict accordance with the Madagascar Coton de Tulear Club of America (mCTCA) standards. Furthermore, all of our breeding dogs are fully DNA-tested and cleared through comprehensive genetic panels.

What do puppies come with when they go home?
Each Jac Be Nimble puppy is prepared for a seamless transition into their forever home. Every puppy goes home equipped with:

  • A comprehensive veterinary examination and documented health record

  • Microchip identification

  • A starter supply of high-quality food

  • A familiar scent blanket carrying the scent of their mother and littermates

  • A comforting toy

  • An official health certificate (provided for interstate travel)

What are your delivery and travel options?
Whether you are picking up your puppy locally in Iowa or buying a Coton de Tulear puppy online to be delivered safely across the US, we want to make the process smooth. We offer free-of-charge local airport meetups at Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Kirksville Regional Airport (IRK), and Kansas City International Airport (MCI). For families outside our immediate area, personal delivery is available for drives exceeding two hours one way (fees apply), and Jac Be Nimble flight nanny services can be arranged for an additional charge.

Frequently asked questions

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