Cotonese Puppy - Marie Antoinette

by Michelle
(Neodesha, Kansas)

On Aug. 12th, the day before my birthday, my son talked me into going into the Pet Store. I have ALWAYS wanted a Maltese. While in the store, I seen these pretty Cotoneses and instantly fell in love with Marie.

She was not like the other dogs in the pet shop. She did not try to get my attention by barking or whining. She was herself, quiet but, friendly. The pet shop clerk let me hold her and Marie and I instantly bonded at that point. She put her head on my chest and was so relaxed. I wanted her for my birthday and wanted to do some research before I committed.

I went home and read up about the Coton de Tulear dog since I was not familiar with the breed. I liked what I read and then called the pet store that afternoon and told them to save her I would be there to pick her up the following morning.

I have had her for almost a week now. Marie is very smart but, can be stubborn at times. I am training her in small sessions... we pretty much have "come" down but, I keep training for reinforcement. I have started introducing "sit" and she is learning it well. Potty training is taking some time but, I stay on top of her. She does not like to go out while it is raining to potty. I put her on her leash to take her out and this is where the stubbornness comes in. If she does not want to walk, she will lay down and not budge, or she will sit and not be budged. I am gradually working her out of this by walking her with our other dog in the evening.

Marie is a love bug and needs much attention. She does not like to be alone at times and has become attached to me. I have found to keep from separation anxiety, something with my scent is placed next to her if I am away and she must go into the crate or if I'm in the next room doing housework. This works well, and I discovered this when she fell asleep next to my sandals and I was able to do what I needed while she slept, she did wake up a few times but was ok with me being away and went back to sleep. If I must leave the house, I do not make a fuss over it. I simply crate her and leave. As for the groomer's and vet, she handled those very well yesterday. She has a great disposition!


As for getting along with the rest of the family aka the pack..Marie loves playing with my husband and son, but comes to find me when she is done. Leo, our half Lab Basset hound has been introduced to Marie and they play very well together. Marie KNOWS NO fear! She took to Leo and she chased him, then Leo chased her.

Marie chews and bites because of her teeth. I have toys for her for when she does and she can be easily redirected to chew on them instead of us. If she does get too rough, we say "OUCH" very loudly and she gets the hint. She loves when we get down to her level to play with her. And she will chase her ball when we roll it.

Marie's fur is very cottony and soft to touch. She is a big furball! Marie is a joy and a blessing in my life!