The Coton is friendly and very sociable and a typical Bichon-type dog. They are gentle and affectionate and get on well with children, other animals and dogs but are very attached to their family and want to be included in daily activities. They are eager to please, alert and make good watchdogs. They learn quickly and enjoy walking on their hind legs and doing other tricks to please their owner. Without proper leadership this breed can become stubborn so be sure to establish yourself as a firm and consistent pack leader to prevent Small Dog Syndrome, where the dog believes it is leader of the pack as this can lead to behavioural problems.