Poo Ton Dog Breed

The Coton de Tulear and Poodle mix, as a crossbreed, is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin; while a Coton de Tulear-Poodle cross may have existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. The Coton de Tulear x Poodle likely gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in North America in the late 20th century. In any case, these affectionate, intelligent, loyal little dogs make great companion pets for active families of any size, and they're especially good for seniors or for those living in apartments.

A few facts about the Poodle-Coton de Tulear mix: they're toy- to small-sized, averaging 10 inches at the shoulders in height and 11 pounds in weight; they have medium-length, wavy, lightweight coats that don't shed much (but will require a good bit of grooming); and they're very sensitive and will quickly suffer separation anxiety if left alone.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Poo-Ton:

The Poo-Ton is the offspring of two breeds that are similar in a lot of ways: both the Poodle and the Coton de Tulear are prized companion pets, so you can expect the Poo-Ton to share those qualities as well. These hybrids are not big: an adult Poo-Ton is typically 8-11 inches at the shoulders in height and 9-13 pounds in weight. Their medium-length coats don't shed much at all--but they do tangle easily, so they'll need frequent brushing and other grooming. Their coats, which come in both solid and multi-colored patterns, are most often white but can also be brown, black, apricot, gray, and red, among others.

Perhaps the most important bit of Poo-Ton info is that these hybrids need a lot of attention. They're very devoted to their human owners, and will easily turn fussy and vocal if they're not receiving the same amount of attention they're so willing to give! Owners say providing a Poo-Ton with lots of obedience training and socialization, starting during puppyhood if possible, will help these dogs be more well-balanced and confident.

And despite its small size, the Poo-Ton is pretty energetic, and will need some exercise on a daily basis. A walk or two plus a dedicated period of play will fulfill these dogs' daily activity needs.

Sensitive, intelligent, energetic, friendly, and often needy, the Cotonoodle temperament is one of both activity and love. These hybrids will be extremely affectionate with family members--but they're known for getting upset if that affection is not returned. That said, Cotonoodle dogs are very personable, and get along with practically everyone and everything. They make great playmates for kids, and normally socialize well with other pets in the household; even so, it's a good idea to have your Poo-Ton grow up alongside any children or other pets if possible, so they learn to be accustomed to one another.

In regards to training: these hybrids are smart and eager to please, and typically learn commands, tasks, and tricks without too many repetitions. As with any dog, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And for such a small dog, the Poo-Ton's watchdog skills are actually pretty good. These hybrids are loyal, alert, and vocal, and they're bound to bark at and investigate any unknown sights or sounds. While they're simply too small to physically neutralize potential threats like intruders, that doesn't mean they won't try!

The Poo-Ton, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids can suffer a few ailments common to the parent breeds including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (when the kneecaps slip out of place), and various eye issues (the most serious of which is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA). Potential Poo-Ton owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Poo-Ton is relatively long, at 13-17 years.