Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties - the elegant hairless with silky head plume and the fully coated Powderpuff - both sharing a loving, playful personality.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
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undefinedIs a Chinese Crested Right for You?
undefinedLiving with a Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are affectionate, playful dogs who thrive on human companionship. They bond very closely with their owners and can suffer from separation anxiety. They are good with gentle children and generally get on well with other pets. They are sensitive to cold and need jumpers or coats in cooler weather. They suit most living situations.
Training Tips
- Use gentle, positive methods - they are very sensitive
- Socialise carefully to build confidence
- House training can take patience with this breed
- They respond well to clicker training and food rewards
- Keep training sessions short, fun and positive
Temperament
Affectionate, playful and alert. Chinese Cresteds are loving dogs who want nothing more than to be with their people. They are lively and entertaining, often performing amusing antics. They are alert and can be good little watchdogs. They can be shy if not well socialised.
Exercise Needs
About 20-30 minutes of exercise daily. They enjoy short walks and play sessions but are not demanding in their exercise needs. They are adaptable and can be happy with a moderate lifestyle. Their skin needs protection from sun and cold during outdoor activities.
Grooming
The hairless variety needs regular skin care including bathing, moisturising and sun protection. The Powderpuff variety has a long, soft coat that needs daily brushing to prevent matting. Both varieties need regular dental care as dental issues are common, especially in the hairless variety.
Health
Prone to dental problems (especially the hairless variety - the hairless gene is linked to missing teeth), Legg-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, eye conditions and skin allergies. The hairless variety needs sun protection. Despite their delicate appearance, they are generally healthy and long-lived. Average lifespan 13-18 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Cresteds?
Both varieties are born in the same litter. The hairless variety has smooth skin with silky hair on the head (crest), feet (socks) and tail (plume). The Powderpuff has a full coat of long, soft hair. The hairless gene is dominant but both parents must carry the Powderpuff gene for the coated variety to appear.
Do Chinese Cresteds need sun cream?
Yes, the hairless variety is prone to sunburn and needs pet-safe sun protection when outdoors. They also need jumpers in cold weather. Their exposed skin requires regular care including moisturising and protection from environmental extremes.
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