The Chinese Crested dog is well known for their unique coats—they’re practically hairless! (Well, not all of them.) But they’re so much more than their trademark hairstyle. These lively pups have one purpose: to warm your heart and your lap. Cresteds want to be with you wherever you are, and if you leave them alone for long, they may try to escape in order to find you. But it’s only because they care about you—they really want to make sure you’re happy. So, say goodbye to solo nights with pizza and Netflix.
Best For
Chinese Cresteds are best for pet parents who are able to be with them for most of the day and they are good with gentle, affectionate families. They can do well with older kids, other dogs and cats if properly socialized and are great for apartment-dwellers.Available Chinese crested puppies for sale
Chinese Cresteds are sweet, playful and incredibly affectionate. But don’t mistake their buoyancy for a “devil-may-care” attitude. These dogs tend to be quite sensitive and respond best to tenderness and patience—they won’t quickly forget harsh words. Cresteds crave TLC in return for their unwavering attention and affection. Does this mean Chinese Crested dogs are a little needy? Well, yes. They are known to be Velcro dogs. But if you don’t mind a sensitive little stalker who’s always up for snuggling, this might be the pup for you. Like other toy breeds, Chinese Cresteds can be “mouthy” at times. Though they love their families, they can be nervous and nippy with strangers. In addition to getting your pup used to new people and situations (commonly referred to as “socialization”), savvy pet parents may be able temper their pup’s urge to nip and nibble by offering chew toy or playing tug-of-war. Raising a Chinese Crested with kids or other small dogs or cats can be a great success if the household isn’t too chaotic. Little ones who enjoy rough play could endanger this tiny dog. Cresteds thrive with kids who know how to be calm and gentle with their diminutive pup. Children might need to be reminded not to try to wrestle or play roughly with this pup. This ultra-affectionate, lively breed could be trained to excel as a companion dog, emotional therapy dog and a snuggly lapdog for tenderhearted kids and adults.
How to Care for a Chinese Crested
Raising a Chinese Crested will be easy-peasy—these are low-maintenance pups! But that doesn’t mean your dog doesn’t need TLC. Like any kid or fur baby, these pups need affection, play and a bit of grooming (yes, even the hairless ones).
Grooming
A Chinese Crested’s grooming needs are fairly low compared to other dog breeds, and their hair care depends on whether you have a hairless or powderpuff dog.
Your powderpuff pup should be brushed daily or every other day with a pin brush followed by a comb to make sure you get the tangles out. Unlike other double-coated dogs (dogs with an undercoat and a topcoat), the powderpuff’s undercoat is actually longer than the topcoat and is more prone to tangles. You may also need to give their muzzle a haircut about twice a month, and they only need a bath about once a month (more often if dirty, of course).
You might think that hairless dogs don’t need grooming, but you’d be wrong! Brush their bits of fur with a pin brush or a comb once a week to avoid tangles. More importantly, when it comes to the hairless Cresteds, you’ll need to care for your dog’s bare skin. Keep your dog in the shade and apply sunscreen as needed, especially if your pup is lighter skinned. If your dog gets a sunburn, apply aloe vera or a dog-friendly after-sun lotion as soon as possible. These pups may also have to deal with acne. Treat it gently: avoid popping pimples, apply acne ointments when necessary and be sure to keep their skin clean. Hairless pups can be bathed weekly to keep their skin healthy. And don’t forget the skin benefits of clean bedding and fresh air!
While you’re brushing your pup (either type), check their ears and clean them with a cotton ball and mild, dog-friendly ear cleanser. If you notice redness or discharge, have them checked out by your vet.
Chinese Crested dogs are prone to dental problems, so brush their teeth at least a few times a week (daily if possible). Offer dental dog treats to support their oral hygiene. And don’t forget to take your pup for annual professional teeth cleaning by your vet (not a groomer).
You’ll need to trim their nails about once a month. You’ll know it’s time for a trim when you can hear their nails clicking on the floor.
