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Chinese Crested Dog Puppies
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Chinese Crested Dog Breed
 The Chinese Crested Dog is known for its most unusual appearance. It comes in two varieties: Hairless and Powder-Puff. The Hairless dogs are the more famous variety of Chinese Crested Dog. They have a soft, humanlike skin that is unusual to the touch, though they do have tufts of fur on their paws ("socks") and tail ("plume") and a long, wavy hair on their heads ("crest")
The Chinese Crested Dog is believed to have originated in Africa and then traveled to China where it was used on ships to eradicate vermin. In China, this toy breed was originally known as the Treasure House Guardian. Chinese Crested Dogs come in two varieties, the Hairless and the Powder Puff. The Hairless Chinese Crested dog is somewhat strange looking with its hairless body and furred head, tail and paws. The tufts of hair on the feet are called "socks", on the tail the "plume" and on the head the "crest". The body skin is hot to the touch, a fact which has given rise to various medical myths. For instance, it is claimed that arthritis can be cured by using one of these little dogs as a "heating pad". Because these dogs lack hair on the majority of their body, special care needs to be taken to keep them from getting dry skin and also burning in the sun. The Hairless Chinese Crested dog may be a good choice for people who suffer from allergies, as their lack of hair can cause them to produce less dander.
These dogs are very playful and affectionate. They make excellent pets and can fit any lifestyle and environment. They get along very well with other small animals and children. They do not bark loudly or often and accordingly, they may not be suitable as watchdogs.
The Powder Puff Chinese Crested Dog variety is not found as often as the Hairless variety. These dogs often come in particolor - white with patches of gray, tan, or black. The Powder Puff has a full silky coat which is a long, soft undercoat that hangs down on both sides of the dog. Powder puffs need weekly brushing and combing.
The advantage of owning a naked dog is that it has no body odor, no heavy shedding and no fleas. And people who are allergic to other, hairier breeds, may find that this one causes them no problems. The disadvantage is that a naked dog must wear protective clothing during cold winter months and be kept out of the sun in the summer.
Both photos courtesy of Unicorn Chinese Crested Dogs
Breeder of Champion Powder Puff and Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs in Florida
Chinese Crested Dog Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | China |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 9 - Companion and Toy Dogs; Section 4 - Hairless Dogs. |
| Utilization: | Toy Dog |
| AKC Classification: |
Toy Group |
| Personality: | Chinese Crested Dogs are very friendly and active. They require no or little exercise and prefer the indoors, which makes them a great pet for elderly people. They make good watchdogs. |
| Size: | Small |
| Height: | 11-13 inches at shoulders |
| Colors: |
Any color or combination of colors. |
| Average Litter Size: | 3 |
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Life Span: | 10-14 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
Even though this breed does not need professional grooming services, it's a lifetime commitment! The Powder Puff variety needs to be brushed once a week. Hairless variety requires regular massage with lotion to prevent the skin from getting too dry. Both varieties need a bath with medicated shampoo twice a month. |
| Shedding: | Hairless Chinese Crested dogs do not shed. If you brush the powder puffs, they will not shed either. |
| Social skills: |
The Chinese Crested gets along with other cats and dogs very well. |
| Suitability for Children: | Best with children older than 5 years of age. |
| Exercise Needs: | The Chinese Crested is very active indoors which makes him an ideal apartment dog. |
| Train Ability: | Chinese Crested Dogs are known to be hard to house train. |
Health & Behavior Issues:
| The most common disorders are acne, loss of teeth and claws, skin allergies, and knee dislocation.
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