Welcome to the world of Chinese crested's

 
The Chinese cresteds come in two varieties—the hairless and the powder puff. Both are born in the same litter and both are important in preserving the quality of the Chinese Crested.
The hairless variety has soft silky hair on it’s head, feet and tail. Their skin is soft and smooth.
The powder puff variety is completely covered with a silky, soft, and straight  coat.
 Both varieties, the hairless and the powder puff come in many different colors and markings.

Chinese Cresteds are very clean, with no doggie odor and are not prone to fleas or ticks.

The most popular of the hairless breed, the Chinese Crested are still very rare. These dogs are sweet, lively, playful and cuddly. They are exceptionally loving. Affectionate with children adults and children. Children should, however be taught not to be too rough with this breed as they are very friendly but doesn't have the protective coat that other breeds and a small breed so they can be injured with rough play. They are an entertaining companion. Intelligent and very alert.  They have the ability to perform tricks and are generally good with other pets. Cresteds can also be climbers and able to jump. They are not barkers. They tend to become very attached to their owners. These little dogs enjoy human companionship.

Exercise

Although it is tempting to carry these little creatures about, they are active little dogs who need daily exercise. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds play will not fulfill all their needs. They need a good walk. They also enjoy a good romp in a safe  open area off lead, such as a large fenced yard. Don't think just because Cresteds are small they should be confined to a small space. They love to run free and explore their environment.

 

Care required

The skin of the hairless Chinese crested’s require careful attention. Those with show dogs wash the skin regularly, and often use skin-exfoliating products to remove dead cells and to soften the skin. It is also important to keep the skin smooth and clear. The unpigmented areas and the Chinese crested’s with light color skin, such as the palomino colored dogs, are especially sensitive to the sun. It is a good idea to keep them out of the sun or use a good quality sunscreen.
 The powder puff variety should be brushed or combed on a regular basis, as well as bathe. A good quality shampoo and conditioner is recommended.
 

Social behavior
 The Chinese Crested have no problem with other dogs or pets. They adapt easily to a family.
 

Training
 The Chinese Crested is not difficult to train because this dog is intelligent and quick to grasp what is required of them.
 

Health Issues

 
 Exposed skin needs special care to prevent skin problems and irritation. This breed should be protected from the sun with a sun block and lighter color dog do tend to burn if exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Many Chinese Cresteds are allergic to lanolin and wool. They many also have a reaction if vaccinated with LEPTO. Their teeth should be well cared for to prevent decay. Hairless dogs often don't get or lose many teeth as young adults. The hairless variety have a more prehistoric mouth-with teeth pointing forward. The powder puff variety have normal teeth and must have full dentation to be shown. Each hairless dog carries one gene for hairless and one gene hair. Therefore powder puff and hairless appear in the same litter. The only exception is the breeding of two powder puffs as they will only produce powder puffs.                                                                                     
Do not overfeed this breed as they will become obese if given the chance. They do love their food.
 

This site was last updated 11/26/08