Chinese Crested

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.

Chinese Crested puppies look elegant and graceful, but they still need to be trained. Start obedience training (basic commands like sit, stay and come) and socialization as soon as you bring your dog home. By introducing your Chinese Crested to new people and places, you can help them feel more comfortable and confident as they grow up (and curb their nippiness around strangers).

To socialize your pup, take them on walks so they can see (and sniff!) new people and other dogs. Puppy school is another great way to practice socialization. Here, puppies learn how to play nicely with each other, and they get to meet strangers and discover that people outside their family can be nice, too.

Housebreaking a Chinese Crested can be tricky depending on your dog’s personality traits—they can be quite sensitive and may shut down emotionally if you’re too harsh with them. These intelligent dogs respond well to patient and calm family members. And remember that positive reinforcement can go a long way. (Positive reinforcement rewards pups for a good job with treats, praise and playtime with special toys.) So if your Crested has accidents as you start housetraining, don’t give in to your anxiety or frustration. Calmly and gently direct your puppy to where you want them to go potty. And remember to reward them when they do a great job. Practice makes perfect!

Set yourself up for success by buying appropriate dog toys before you bring a Chinese Crested home. Chew toys give them a positive outlet for their puppy chewing. Balls for playing fetch or ropes for tug of war help your pup understand which items are for biting and which are not. Remember the three Ps: patience, playfulness and positive reinforcement.

Chinese Crested dogs typically do well on a high-quality commercial dog food. Your veterinarian can help you determine the exact amount and type of food for your Chinese Crested pup. As you browse dog food varieties, be sure to factor in your dog’s age and choose a formula that fits their stage in life (puppy, adult, senior).

Some hairless Chinese Cresteds have missing teeth. Don’t worry—this is a perfectly normal trait in hairless dogs. (Xoloitzcuintli dogs have this, too.) In that case, most vets recommend soft food or experimenting with a combination of soft food and solid kibble. (But check with your vet first.)

Chinese Cresteds are tiny creatures! Even an extra pound can create health problems for you pup, including heart disease. So, be sure to include the treats you give (for training or because you love them) in their overall daily meal count. Instead of leaving food out all day for them to graze, have specific mealtimes when the food is available. If you see your pup gaining a little extra weight, talk with your vet. They’re in the best position to help you put together a mealtime and exercise plan to help your pup lose the weight and still maintain their nutritional needs.

Chinese Crested puppies enjoy energetic play and brisk walks just like many other young dogs. Moderately active, alert and lively, they’re not hyperactive or in need of several walks each day. Your Chinese Crested will probably be satisfied with a brisk morning walk plus some evening chasing or tug-of-war in the backyard or house, totaling about 30 minutes. Just don’t forget the sunscreen for your hairless variety if you’re heading outside to play!

Of course, Chinese Cresteds are known for their agility. They excel in competitive sports like flyball and obstacle course racing. These dogs were bred to hunt rats, after all, which takes some energy.

Don’t forget to exercise their brains, too! Leave a few toy puzzles around the house for them to solve and get a delicious treat for their efforts.

Any person or family with gentle, patient older kids would do well to consider welcoming a Chinese Crested into their home. This pup doesn’t need much space, but they do need attention. Separation anxiety can lead to bouts of barking or even escape attempts. As long as there’s someone home, this loving breed is just as happy in a tiny apartment as a large house with fellow pets and kids. (If you do have to be gone, check your pup into doggie daycare or arrange for a pet sitter or neighbor to swing by for a while.)

A word on climate: Your Chinese Crested is easily burned in the sun and chilled in the cold. If you live somewhere with all four seasons, expect your pup to sport sunscreen and fashionable sweaters in equal measure.