Chinese Crested

Two coat varieties in one small companion breed

The breed’s name refers to the crest of hair on the head of the hairless variety. Longer hair also covers its feet and forms a plume on the tail. Powderpuff is the name for the fully coated variety with soft, long hair. Both varieties are companions, but their care needs differ. Before deciding, consider which routine you can provide consistently and how an individual fits your everyday life.

The American Chinese Crested Club describes a companion capable of joining in a range of activities. Short shared exercises can also be enjoyable for this small dog. Following a hand or stepping willingly onto a grooming mat are useful examples. A clear task and an appealing reward make cooperation easier.

With visitors, the dog should have the opportunity to approach voluntarily. An unusual appearance can prompt people to touch its skin or crest immediately. This should not happen without regard for the dog’s comfort. Children should also learn to leave it undisturbed while sleeping and avoid continually picking it up.

Everyday life

Walks with opportunities to sniff and short shared games belong in a Chinese Crested’s routine. For the hairless variety, plans should suit the weather. Shaded routes and cooler times of day help in sunshine. Prolonged sunbathing should be avoided because sparsely coated skin can burn.

A well-fitting dog coat can provide warmth in cold weather. It should neither rub nor restrict movement. A dog that shivers or noticeably slows down should be taken back into the warmth. After a walk in the rain, check whether the coat has become damp or is rubbing against the skin. A coat is usually unnecessary in a warm home.

A simple indoor search can provide a shared activity. An appropriate toy can first be placed in plain sight, with a reward for finding it. Later, part of it can be hidden behind a cushion. New tasks should remain easy to understand as they develop. Regular absences also need a care plan and gradual introduction to time alone.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

The Powderpuff has longer, soft hair over an undercoat, the shorter layer beneath the visible outer hair. Gentle brushing and combing should reach the roots so that tangles underneath are noticed. Behind the ears and where a harness rubs deserve particular attention. A suitable grooming cut can be discussed with a skilled groomer.

The hairless variety’s skin should be checked regularly for redness, rubbing and other changes. Shade and sensible walk timing are the first parts of sun protection. A vet can recommend a dog-appropriate sunscreen for exposed areas. Human skin products or acne treatments should not simply be used on the dog. Skin problems need an appropriate diagnosis rather than repeated experiments with new products.

Missing teeth can occur in the hairless variety. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale, or FCI, the international federation of kennel clubs, allows for this in its standard. Dental health remains important. Existing teeth need care and regular examination. Pain when eating, strong bad breath or changes in the gums should be discussed with the practice. For both varieties, grooming and examination should be introduced calmly and gradually.