Hi Claudia,
I just read your post. I have 2 Coton de Tulears. They are 16 mo and 2 yrs. These dogs are still so rare - at least in the US I hardly ever hear of anyone having one.
I know what you mean about the mats. My boys love to run and roll and dig in the yard. If they are not brushed daily they definitely get mats. Cutting them out is fine if you plan to have their coats cut or trimmed. Some Coton owners never want to cut the hair. But if you aren't planning on showing them, it is fine to cut them.
I take mine every 2-3 months to be clipped. I have her leave their legs about 1 in. long and their torso and back about 5/8 in. long. I also have her clipped their undersides, because, as you said, that is where they mat the worst. I leave their little heads and faces a little longer than the rest to keep that cute look. I do have her trim around the eyes because I want to see their eyes.
I could send you a picture by email if you like and I would love to see your baby.
Do you have any training issues. My youngest, Pistol is having some "fear aggression" issues toward other dogs and people - especially men.
It was so nice to see a Coton owner out there.
Kathy
