Sometimes a Coton de Tulear needs a new home. It may be an older dog whose family can no longer care for it, a dog returned to its breeder, or a Coton that has ended up in a shelter through no fault of its own.
Canada does not have a large, dedicated Coton rescue organisation. Finding a Coton to adopt takes a little patience and a bit of networking. The good news is that these dogs are worth the search.
Where to look
Start with club breeders. Many breeders take back dogs they have bred, and some also help rehome Cotons they hear about. If you are open to an adult or a senior, let them know. You can find our members in the Breeders' Directory, and you can also check our Adults Available page.
Check local shelters and rescue groups. Cotons do turn up in shelters, though not often. It is worth calling around, following local rescue pages, and asking to be notified if a small white companion dog comes in. Some shelters also list animals on Petfinder and Adopt a Pet, where you can set up alerts.
Ask the club. If you hear about a Coton that needs help, or if you are looking for one, please write to us or call us. Even if we do not have a dog available at that moment, we can help spread the word and put you in touch with the right people.
What to keep in mind
A rescued Coton may come with some baggage. A dog from a difficult start can be shy, anxious, or slow to trust. That is normal, and it usually fades with time, patience, and a calm routine. A fenced yard helps, but it is not essential. What matters most is a home where someone is around for a good part of the day.
If you are considering a rescue, be honest with yourself about the time and patience you can offer. A Coton that has been passed around needs stability more than anything else.
As of 2026, the club still does not run its own shelter. What we do is connect people. If you would like to help, or if you know of a Coton in need, please write to us, call us, or come and visit us at a club event. We are always glad to hear from people who want to give one of these dogs a second chance.
