Tibecot

The Coton de Tulear is a small, sturdy companion breed that takes its name from its distinctive cotton-like coat and the port city of Tulear in Madagascar where the breed developed. Males typically stand between 9.5 and 12 inches at the shoulder and weigh 9 to 15 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 9 to 11 inches tall and weighing 8 to 13 pounds. The body is moderately long compared to its height, presenting a slightly rectangular silhouette that gives the breed a balanced and stable appearance. The head is short and triangular when viewed from above, with a slightly rounded skull and a muzzle that is approximately one-third the total length of the head. The most distinctive feature of the Coton de Tulear is its extraordinary coat, which has a unique cotton-like texture that is soft, supple, and slightly wavy rather than silky or woolly. This breed lacks an undercoat, which contributes to its hypoallergenic qualities and makes it popular among allergy sufferers. The coat is predominantly white, though light gray or light tan shadings may appear on the ears, and puppies are sometimes born with more color that typically fades as they mature. The breed standard permits a maximum of five percent color on the body of adult dogs. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting but does not shed heavily. Additional physical characteristics include large, round, dark eyes that are set wide apart and express an alert, lively, and intelligent demeanor. The ears are triangular, thin, set high on the skull, and drop down alongside the cheeks. The tail is set low and carried over the back in a curve when the dog is in motion, with the tip touching the back. The legs are straight and well-boned, ending in small, round, tight feet. The overall impression is of a happy, alert little dog with an engaging expression and a coat that invites touching.

The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized breed that, despite its name, is not actually a terrier at all but rather an ancient Tibetan breed developed as a companion and good luck charm in Buddhist monasteries. Males typically stand between 14 and 16 inches at the shoulder, with females being slightly smaller, and the breed generally weighs between 18 and 30 pounds, with 20 to 24 pounds being the preferred range. The body is well-muscled and compact, appearing square when properly conditioned, with a level back and moderate tuck-up. The overall impression is of a powerful dog capable of both speed and endurance. The Tibetan Terrier possesses a distinctive double coat consisting of a fine, woolly undercoat and a profuse, fine topcoat that can be either wavy or straight but is never silky. The coat grows continuously and can become quite long, falling over the eyes and covering the entire body when mature. All colors and color combinations are acceptable in the breed standard except chocolate, liver, and merle. Common colors include white, gold, black, brindle, and various combinations of these colors. The coat served as protection against the harsh Tibetan climate and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. One of the most unique physical features of the Tibetan Terrier is its large, flat, round feet that are often described as snowshoe-like. These distinctive feet provided traction in the snowy, mountainous terrain of their native Tibet. The head is of medium length with a moderate stop, and the skull is neither domed nor flat. The eyes are large, dark, and set fairly wide apart, giving an expression of intelligence and warmth. The ears are pendant, V-shaped, and set fairly high on the sides of the skull. The tail is set high and carried in a curl over the back, with abundant feathering.