Schip Coton

The Schipperke is a small, sturdy dog with a distinctive silhouette that gives the appearance of sloping from the highest point at the withers down to the base of the tail. Males typically stand between eleven and thirteen inches at the shoulder while females are slightly smaller at ten to twelve inches, with weights ranging from ten to twenty pounds depending on size and build. The breed has a compact, thickset body with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs, conveying an impression of substance and strength despite its modest size. Their characteristic fox-like head features a wedge-shaped muzzle, small pointed ears that stand erect, and dark oval eyes that project an alert, questioning expression. The Schipperke's coat is one of its most distinguishing features, consisting of a double layer with a soft, fluffy undercoat covered by a somewhat harsher and longer outer coat. The coat forms a distinctive pattern with a pronounced ruff around the neck and extending over the shoulders and chest, along with a cape over the back and culottes on the rear of the thighs. This gives the breed its characteristic silhouette and appearance of a miniature lion. The coat is most commonly solid black, which gives the breed a striking appearance, though cream and blonde colorations also occur, and rarely a liver-red shade may be seen. The Schipperke may be born naturally tailless, with a partial tail, or with a full tail that was traditionally docked. The breed's small, cat-like feet are tight and round, designed for the agile movement that made them effective ratters on canal barges and in Belgian shops. Their movement is brisk and smooth, with a distinctive quick stride that reflects their energetic nature. The breed's coat requires weekly brushing to maintain its condition and control shedding, with more frequent attention needed during their heavy seasonal shedding periods that occur twice yearly when the undercoat is shed in dramatic fashion.

The Coton de Tulear is a small, robustly built companion dog that presents an elegant yet sturdy appearance. Males typically stand ten to eleven inches at the shoulder and weigh between nine and fifteen pounds, while females are slightly smaller at nine to ten inches and eight to thirteen pounds. Despite their delicate appearance, these dogs possess a substantial build with good bone and muscle that provides surprising heft when lifted. Their body is slightly longer than tall, creating a balanced rectangular profile, with a level topline and well-developed chest. The breed takes its name from their cotton-like coat and the port city of Tulear in Madagascar, where they were developed. The most distinctive feature of the Coton de Tulear is undoubtedly their remarkable coat, which is long, soft, and cotton-textured, giving the breed its evocative name. Unlike the fur of most breeds, the Coton's coat is actually hair that is dense and profuse with a slight wave but never curly. The preferred color is pure white, though light gray or tan shadings on the ears are acceptable. This coat is considered hypoallergenic with minimal shedding, making the breed an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. However, the coat's length and texture require significant maintenance including daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles, along with professional grooming every few months. The Coton de Tulear has an expressive face with large, round, dark eyes that convey a bright and engaging expression. The ears are triangular and set high, hanging close to the cheeks and covered with long flowing hair that blends into the body coat. The nose is black, complementing the dark eyes and providing contrast against the white coat. The tail is low set and carried curved over the back when the dog is in motion, covered with abundant hair that creates a graceful plume. Their movement is light and free, with the flowing coat creating an almost floating appearance as they trot along. The breed was isolated on the island of Madagascar for centuries, which helped preserve their distinctive characteristics.