Learn about Chinese Crested Dog

Chinese Crested Dog Breed History, Health Issues, Grooming, Temperament and Living Conditions



Description: There are two varieties within the breed of the Chinese crested dog. One is a powder puff, the other being hairless. With the hairless variety, we see that it has hair on its feet head and tail, but is hairless everywhere else. Whereas the powder puff has a long, soft coat all over. Both types hairless and powder puff can be born in the same litter. The powder puff is double coated, whereas the hairless, does not (because it's hairless). This breed can have either solid colour or spotted coat and skin. This breed has a wedge shaped head when viewed from above. The muzzle tapers nicely into the cheeks, and they have almond shaped eyes, and the eye rim will match the colour of the dog's coat. Their ears stand erect, and large to look at. The look of the powder puff varies depending on how it is groomed. This breed weighs up to 10 pounds.

History: This dog originates from Africa, and here they were called African hairless terriers. They were taken on board ships by the Chinese as vermin hunters, and this is where they gained their name. Chinese crested. They were first shown in America in 1885, at the Westminster kennel club show, held in New York. With a bumpy history in America, they became firmly established by the AKC in 1991. This is still considered a rare Breed dog. Gypsy Rose Lee, a famous dancer was known to breed Chinese crested.

Temperament: Chinese crested dogs are still very rare. They are very agile, and do well within agility. This breed is alert, lovable and playful with children. The dog can make a good companion that can show great amusement. To gain the best from this dog socialise well and introduced outside activities to give your dog confidence throughout its life. They are good with other pets, and are known for their good ability to perform tricks. This dog can get very attached to their owner, and like all dogs need good leadership. This will prevent small dog syndrome.

Health issues: Due to the fact, this dog has exposed skin special care has to be taken to prevent skin irritation, this dog needs sunscreen, and it's best to care the same as human skin care. This breed is prone to tooth loss due to decay. Some Chinese crested dogs are allergic to wool. Eyes can be a concern with PRA, this breed can also have multiple system degeneration. They can have shallow knee joints as well.

Grooming: Both types need special care and grooming with puffs having a fine silk double coat which needs brushing daily to avoid matting. The hair of the powder puff can grow very long. With the hairless Chinese crested care of the skin is needed daily as they can suffer from dryness, acne, and sunburn. Special care must be taken of their feet as their quick runs deeply into the nail. So trimming has to be done with caution. The hairless need bathing frequently, and after drying, massaging cream into their skin will prevent cracking.

Living conditions: This is an active breed, but will be happy in an apartment. Not needing a garden, but still requiring daily walks.