Meet the Chinese Crested Dog
What a traveled dog breed! Chinese Crested Dogs are difficult to trace back to their hairless origins because they’re basically mutations resulting from many other breeds all over the world. Someone enjoyed their naked appearance, so he began selectively breeding for less hair.
Today, there are two varieties of Chinese Crested Dogs: hairless and powder puff. Now, the hairless version is not truly without hair. They usually have tiny tufts of fur placed on their head, feet and tail almost appearing equine. Powder puff varieties have more hair and interestingly it’s a recessive gene.
Chinese Crested Dogs are part of the AKC Toy Group, meaning they were bred as a companion dog. However, don’t let their petite and pretty looks fool you. They’re fierce ratters too!
Size and Temperament
Cresteds stand at about 11″ to 13″ tall at the shoulder and weigh between 5 to 12 lbs. They’re perfectly sized as a lap dog. Due to their small size, children should be taught how to pick up, hold and carry these dogs gently to prevent injuries. They are gentle, playful dogs that are tolerant of other pets (probably not rodents) and strangers, and truly love to be with their humans.
Health and Dietary Needs
Chinese Crested Dogs have a 13- to 15-year lifespan. As with all pure and mixed breed dogs, they have some health issues. Major health concerns include PRA and glaucoma (eye disease), deafness, seizures and patellar luxation (moving kneecap).
Finding a Chinese Crested Dog rescue or breeder may require a bit of commitment, as they’re not as common as other breeds. If you decide to purchase a Crested, it’s vital to find a reputable breeder that health tests all parents and grandparents before breeding to ensure healthy puppies and adults. If you choose to rescue a Chinese Crested Dog, ask your veterinarian to examine your Crested’s eyes, check for hearing and feel his patellas (knees).
As with all dogs, feeding your dog a nutritious high quality diet that meets his specific needs will help him live a longer, healthier life. Your veterinarian can help you choose the right diet for your dog.
RELATED: Homemade Diets for Dogs
Dog Grooming Needs
No hair, no fuss, right? Well, that’s not exactly true. Hairless Chinese Cresteds need regular skin care, such as regular bathing with a gentle shampoo, to keep clogged pores to a minimum. Don’t forget moisturizer and sunscreen. Their skin is constantly exposed to harsh elements, so it’s crucial to protect their skin. Powder puff and hairless versions should be brushed every day or two to prevent mats and tangles. Don’t forget: hairless varieties have tufts of hair that tangle easily.
Nails, Ears and Teeth
Check and trim nails regularly. Keeping them trimmed with clippers or a grinder will help prevent overgrowth and cracking, which can be very painful. Don’t forget to peek inside their ears too. They should be clean and odor-free.
Brushing your Chinese Crested Dog’s teeth is really important. They tend to have thinner enamel and irregular dentition. By brushing regularly, you can help prevent tooth loss or decay.
Exercise and Dog Training Requirements
A Chinese Crested Dog’s exercise requirements are minimal. However, they love to be involved in whatever fun their owner is having, so be prepared to have your fun friend tag along on walks and outdoor games. If it gets cold where you live, your Crested will need a sweater, as the breed has a low tolerance for cooler temperatures. If it gets too cold for him outside, indoor games of fetch and obedience will be more than sufficient for his daily exercise.
These little dogs are wickedly smart! Enroll in positive reinforcement group training classes and try agility and other fun sports, such as lure coursing, barn hunting (locating rats) and, of course, spending lots of time with you. Always keep it positive and fun just like their personality!
Conclusion
The Chinese Crested Dog is a fun, spirited and sensitive dog that can make a great addition to your family. If you’re considering one of these unique dogs, please do as much research as possible to ensure they are a good fit for you. I also invite you to visit a couple of the links listed below.
Sources:
www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chinese-crested
chinesecrested.rescueshelter.com/USA
