Temperament and care ratings
The American Kennel Club rates every breed from 1 to 5 on the traits below. They describe how the breed tends to be, not a promise about one dog.
Coat: Double coat, long.
A Coton de Tulear suits
- A family with young children (rated 5 of 5 with kids)
- A home that changes often, or apartment life (adaptability 4 of 5)
- A first-time owner who wants an eager learner (trainability 4 of 5)
- People who hate dog hair on the sofa (shedding 2 of 5)
Think twice if
- You don't want regular grooming: coat care is 4 of 5
What the ratings mean day to day
An energy score of 3 and mental stimulation needs of 3 mean a good daily walk and some play. With barking at 1 of 5 and a watchdog score of 3, expect a fairly quiet dog. Grooming at 4 of 5 means brushing several times a week or regular professional grooming.
Popularity
In 2020 it ranked 80.
Breeds with a similar profile
Closest matches across all 14 trait ratings:
Compare: Coton de Tulear vs Bichon Frise · Coton de Tulear vs Boston Terrier · Coton de Tulear vs English Toy Spaniel
Frequently asked questions
Are Coton de Tulears good with kids?
The AKC rates the Coton de Tulear 5 out of 5 for being good with young children. That is the top score.
Do Coton de Tulears shed a lot?
Shedding is rated 2 out of 5 (low), and coat grooming 4 out of 5.
Are Coton de Tulears easy to train?
Trainability is rated 4 out of 5 and mental stimulation needs 3 out of 5.
How much energy does a Coton de Tulear have?
Energy is rated 3 out of 5 and playfulness 4 out of 5.
Ratings: American Kennel Club breed pages, compiled February 2022 (AKC Coton de Tulear page). 2025 ranking: AKC, published August 2026. How we check.