✨Breeder Spotlight: Preserving an Allergy-Friendly Breed for Families

Thank you, Linda Gomez, breeder of Coton de Tulears in Texas, for sharing your words of wisdom with the TellTail community.

This article by Linda beautifully captures the joys and challenges of breeding the charming and hypoallergenic Coton de Tulear, emphasizing the thorough process of matching puppies to families and offering insights for aspiring breeders.

💡 Interested in being in the spotlight, or wish to nominate a friend? Email us at hello@telltail.com

What is so special about the Coton de Tulear?

Coton de Tulear's have so many special qualities. They are non-shedding and hypoallergenic, allowing any child with allergies to have a dog. It's so rewarding to hand a puppy to a child who could not otherwise have a puppy if not for these qualities and who will cherish his or her first best friend.

Coton de Tulear’s are absolute clowns and will entertain everyone around them. 

I also refer to them as my "Velcro" dogs as they will follow you everywhere you go.

What questions do you ask your potential buyers? 

I always ask my potential buyers to fill out an application. This information will allow me to see if the Coton de Tulear breed is a perfect fit for them and their family.

I want to know if they have other animals in the home, especially dogs. I also want to know if there are children in the home and what ages they are. Some examples are other questions asked are, “Do you live in a house with a fenced-in yard?” And, “Who will be the prime caregiver?”

I also want to make sure new puppy owners either already have a good vet or they have found one that they will be bringing their new puppy to.

​Why do you love being a dog breeder?

I've been a dog breeder for almost 4 years and it has been an amazing journey. Watching people receive their new forever best friend is so rewarding. My buyers have all become lifelong friends. I still receive pictures and videos from them. They've become another family.

I also love doing special things for my buyers. For example, I send every puppy home with a care basket containing everything I've been using with them at home.

I've recently discovered a vitamin called NuVet and I make sure they keep them on this product. I start them on this at about 6 weeks when they start eating kibble.

What challenges do you face as a dog breeder?

All dog breeders are faced with the possibility that a puppy could be stillborn. Our females may have issues in delivery which might require an emergency trip to the vet in the middle of the night. I've unfortunately experienced both of these scenarios.

What advice do you have for aspiring breeders?

For anyone interested in becoming a dog breeder my advice would be to read and study as much as you can. Watch lots of YouTube videos and find a mentor to help you as you will have so many questions about the process.

Make sure you have everything necessary for the home birth at least a week before your female’s due date if you have a breed that doesn't require a C-section.

Breeding dogs is an absolutely amazing experience for you and your "Best Friend." I highly recommend it.