The coat is long, dry and nearly straight, and requires brushing to remove an undercoat and to prevent matting. The Coton de Tulear is a good candidate for the grooming salon, though pet dogs often have the coat cut to a more manageable length.

A characteristic dry, flyaway coat, which is rather like cotton thread and is considered hypoallergenic. The hair is white (biscuit or cream included), black and white, or tricolor, and about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12.5 cm) long. The coat is intended to protect the Coton de Tulear from the equatorial sun in its native lands surrounding Tulear in Africa.

Equipment needed: Pin brush and a wide-toothed comb.

This breed can remain relatively clean without too many baths, provided the coat is groomed regularly. In addition to regular brushing at home, many owners take the dog to a professional groomer on a monthly basis.

• Brush the coat carefully. Do not bathe the dog with mats in the hair, as this will cause them to escalate.
• Bathe the dog in a natural, gentle shampoo.
• Add conditioner to aid brushing.
• Blow dry the coat gently, brushing with a pin brush, and taking the hair away from the heat. Dry in small sections to prevent matting.
• If the dog is not being shown in the ring, it helps to mist the coat with a leave-in spray conditioner as you brush and dry.
• Check the Coton’s nails, ears and teeth.
• Check underneath the dog’s feet and between the pads for clogged hair, and remove with scissors, if necessary.
• Brush over the coat, using a fine grooming spray if required.