Pom-Coton

The Pom-Coton is a hybrid mix of the Pomeranian and the Coton De Tulear.  This is a newer hybrid and, as such, there is no historical information available on the hybrid.  We'll glean our historical information from that of the parent breeds.  The Pomeranian parent breed heritage comes from ancient Spitz breeds and originated in the Prussian region of Pomerania.  While the approximate date of origin is unknown, we know that the Pomeranian breed excelled at herding sheep and was initially a larger dog, weighing about 30 pounds. The Pom breed became better known in 1870 when the Kennel Club (England) registered it and even more so when, in 1888, during a trip to France, Queen Victoria became quite enamored of a little Pom named Marco.  It was her love of this canine that caused her to desire a smaller version of the Pom.  She is credited with breeding methods that reduced the size of the Pom to that which we currently see in the show ring.  The Pomeranian, also known as the Zwergspitz, was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 and remains quite the popular show and companion canine.  The Coton De Tulear is a purebred (also known as the "Royal Dog of Madagascar") whose heritage is more mysterious, though it is believed to be related to the Bichon Frise and Maltese.  It is believed to have come to Madagascar more than three centuries ago as a survivor of a shipwreck.  The breed gets its name from its cotton-like coat and the seaport of Tulear in Madagascar. Though the original purpose of the breed before coming to Madagascar is unknown, after the arrival in Madagascar, it was utilized as a companion, gracing the laps of many of the rich, royal and famous as well as the common people alike. It became better known in the 1970's when several Coton De Tulear made their way to France and later to North America.  The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2014.  The Pom-Coton hybrid is recognized by the following organizations:  American Canine Hybrid Club,  Designer Breed Registry, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, Inc. and International Designer Canine Registry.