Silky Coton
Silky
The Silky Coton is a charming hybrid breed that results from the crossbreeding of a Silky Terrier and a Coton de Tulear. These affectionate little dogs are designed to be loyal companions, making them an ideal choice for almost any family. Weighing in at 8 to 11 pounds and standing 8 to 11 inches tall, they are compact and require minimal space. Their silky coats are easy to care for and come in a range of colors, including white, gray, red, blue, silver, black, and fawn. With both parent breeds having been originally bred for companionship, the Silky Coton truly captures the essence of an ideal pet.
Breed Origin
The origins of the Silky Coton, much like those of various hybrid breeds, are shrouded in uncertainty. It is thought that this breed was developed to be a small, loving companion. The Silky Terrier, an essential part of this hybrid, originated in Australia in the 1800s. While these dogs were primarily bred for companionship, they still possess their terrier instincts, which make them adept at hunting snakes and rodents. After World War II, soldiers brought the breed to the United States, and in 1959, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Silky Terrier. A remarkable moment in the breed's history occurred in 1996 when a brave Silky Terrier was awarded the Australian Purple Cross of Bravery for heroically leaping from a balcony to save his nine-year-old owner from a venomous brown snake. In contrast, the Coton de Tulear has a much more extensive history, having been discovered in Madagascar during the 1600s. According to legend, these small dogs arrived on the shores of Tulear following a shipwreck. Once known as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar,” they developed their intelligence and adaptability over centuries of living on the island with little human contact. In the 1970s, a Frenchman found these dogs and brought them back to France, where they were given their name. Soon after, they made their way to the United States, quickly becoming cherished companions. Despite their long history, the breed was only officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2014, while the United States Coton de Tulear Club was founded in 1993.
Breed Appearance
The Silky Coton, as a mixed breed, showcases a diverse array of physical traits. While many individuals feature shades of white, black, and brown, they can also appear in a variety of other colors, including sable, silver, blue, gray, and red. Generally, Silky Cotons are known for their thick, fluffy coats; however, some may have finer, silkier fur similar to that of the Silky Terrier. These dogs are typically small and lightweight, with dark, expressive eyes that can sometimes be partially hidden by their fur. Their short muzzles end in a small black or brown nose. Despite having short legs, they are often sturdy, a characteristic that reflects their terrier ancestry.
Care Routine
Despite their long fur, Silky Cotons typically need very little grooming. Usually, brushing their coats a few times a week is adequate, although some may require daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles. They shed minimally and should only be bathed when absolutely necessary. Regular trims are important to keep their hair from blocking their vision. Additionally, many Silky Cotons benefit from professional grooming a few times each year. Like all dogs, they also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and their teeth should be brushed at least two to three times a week.
Behavior & Temperament
The Silky Terrier and the Coton de Tulear were both bred to be loyal and loving companions, and the Silky Coton perfectly reflects these qualities. With a cheerful and affectionate personality, this breed easily adjusts to different living environments, whether with singles, couples, or larger families. Their gentle nature makes them especially good with children, other dogs, and pets. However, their small stature might cause them to feel a bit anxious around lively, small children. Silky Cotons are intelligent and eager to please, thriving on positive reinforcement during training. While they are friendly, they also carry some hunting and digging instincts from their ancestry, which can pose challenges when trying to keep them within yard limits.
Play & Exercise
The Silky Coton is a breed characterized by a moderate level of activity, requiring minimal exercise. Their small size means they are perfectly happy with a few short walks in the neighborhood or a trip to a local dog park each day. These dogs are inherently friendly and curious, often enjoying experiences that involve meeting new people and interacting with other animals. As an intelligent breed, it’s crucial to provide them with sufficient mental stimulation in addition to physical activity to ensure their happiness. Puzzle toys are a fantastic way to deliver the mental challenges that Silky Cotons excel at.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
1.0 Cups
Daily Activity
60 Minutes
Average Lifespan
14 Years
Origin
Unknown
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Small
Origin Country
Unknown
Brush Frequency
Weekly
Coat Texture
Wavy
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Height & Weight
Weight
10 lbs (5 kg)Male: 10 lbs (5 kg) , Female: 10 lbs (5 kg)
Height
10 inches (25 sm)Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 10 inches (25 sm)
6 Months
5 lbs ( m 5 lbs, f 5 lbs )
6 inches ( m 6 inches, f 6 inches )
12 Months
8 lbs ( m 8 lbs, f 8 lbs )
8 inches ( m 8 inches, f 8 inches )
18 Months
9 lbs ( m 9 lbs, f 9 lbs )
9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Brown
Coat Colors
Sable
White
Silver
Fawn
Cream
Red
Brown
Gray
Black
