CARING FOR YOUR CHINESE CRESTED PUPPY

 Among companion animals, Chinese Cresteds are unmatched in their devotion, loyalty, and friendship to humankind. Anyone who has ever loved a Chinese Crested can attest to its hundred-fold return. The excitement your Crested shows when you come home, the wagging tail at the sound of the leash being taken from its hook, the delight in the tossing of toys, and the head nestled in your lap-those are only some of the rewards of being a Chinese Crested owner.

Owning a Chinese Crested is not just a privilege-it's a responsibility. These animals depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. If you are considering taking a Crested into your life, you need to think seriously about the commitment that dog ownership entails. 

 The old adage "you are what you eat" also applies to our pets. The use of quality ingredients makes products completely digestible and usable by the dog. Less food is required to maintain optimum conditions. Premium pet foods are available through veterinarians or at pet stores.

How often you bathe your puppy is up to you. In any event, it is not a difficult task.

Any of the many pet shampoos available can be used or tear-less baby shampoo. Just remember to rinse, rinse, and rinse… to make sure you remove any trace of shampoo.

These dogs shed little to no hair and are great for allergy sufferers.

Hairless

Remember that the skin of the hairless is similar to our skin, I advise you to consider it as such when caring for it. First and foremost the skin needs to be kept clean. For some, moisturizers can be added to keep the skin supple. Acne can be an issue, especially during hormonal changes. And just as with us …you are what you eat. A good premium dog food increases the health of the skin and should reduce the extreme issues in skin care. One further thought to consider is that the hairless will also tan (or sunburn) just like we do. Sunscreens should be used especially on the light colored dogs. The darker hairless will quickly build a tan through exposure. The converse, be careful of overexposure in cold weather. Here’s a great opportunity for some fun "dressing" your pup. Don’t let this warning turn your pup into a "couch potato". They love to romp and play outside!

You may wish to tidy up your hairless Crested. This does not have to be a major project. What you would choose to shave is entirely up to you. I suggest that you purchase an inexpensive battery trimmer. Just remember that practice makes perfect. That goes for you and your pup. They will settle into the routine as they get used to the procedure. You will find that your technique will also improve the more you work with it.

Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of the hairless is dentition. The teeth of the Chinese Crested hairless are often an overwhelming sight to the first-time observer. As with many small breeds, there is often incomplete dentition. Adult teeth may not develop. The canine teeth or eyeteeth, as commonly called, are also quite unique. They are shaped much like an elephant’s tusk and lean forward in the mouth. Consequently, the alignments of the front teeth (incisors) are less than perfect. Personal advice to the pet owner is to keep the teeth as healthy as possible …good nutrition and frequent cleaning should be a priority.

Powder Puff

Powder Puffs need a lot of grooming. Daily brushing of their coat is recommended, taking extra care when they are shedding. The undercoat becomes matted if it is neglected.