Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Chinese Crested is a fine-boned, elegant and graceful dog who makes a loving companion, playful and entertaining. They adore food and will leap about in anticipation of a tiny bite. There are two distinct varieties of this unusual dog: one is hairless except for its feet, head and tail, and called, not surprisingly, the Hairless; the other is called the Powder Puff. It has a coat of long soft hair. Both come in numerous colors, either solid, mixed or spotted all over. Strangely the two types often come in the same litter. It is a friendly family breed, not aggressive towards children or other animals. They do not make good kennel dogs, since they love the companionship of a home. The Chinese Crested does best as a one dog family and sometimes do not like to be over handled by strangers. Odorless and hairless they are a very low maintenance breed.

TEMPERAMENT

The most popular of the hairless breed, the Chinese Crested are still very rare. They are sweet, lively, playful and cuddly. This breed is exceptionally loving and likes to hug and smile. Affectionate with children. Children should be taught not to be rough with this breed as it is friendly, but it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily. They are an entertaining companion, intelligent and very alert. They should be well-socialized and exposed to loud noises when young to avoid potential timidity. If its owners do not baby them, these dogs can grow up to be a very well-adjusted dog. The Chinese Crested have an ability to perform tricks and are generally good with other pets. They are not barkers. These dogs tend to become very attached to their owners and have difficulty adjusting to a new one. Chinese Crested Dogs crave constant companionship.

GROOMING

Hairless - tufts of long, soft hair only on head, feet and tail. Chinese Crested are very clean, with no doggie odor and are not prone to fleas or ticks.

HEALTH

Eye problems such as lens luxation, glaucoma and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), luxating patellas, Legg-Perthes disease and skin allergies. Often if two hairless dogs are bred together, some of the puppies are born with missing teeth and claws. Other health concerns include liver shunts and dental problems.

EXERCISE

They may become sticky and dirty in hot weather as they perspire. Hairless Chinese Cresteds should also not be left in bright sunlight because their skin may burn. Both need minimal exercise. Hairless must be kept warm, especially during winter months.

TRAINING

Being a very intelligent breed, this dog does well in obedience type sports. Consistency is a must, however this breed can be relatively sensitive and should have a gentle trainer. The Chinese Crested is great at performing tricks.

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