The Chinese Crested Dog Breed: A Breed Above the Rest

The Chinese Crested dog breed is one of a unique stature with an exceptional personality. They are among the few small breed of dogs that are great in apartments, excellent with children and are very quiet.

Unlike many of the other toy breed dogs, the Chinese Crested are docile and love attention. As a matter of fact, they will force your love from you. For such a small package, the Chinese Crested do not lack in personality or stamina. Weighing in at a mere 5-12 pounds with a height between 11-13 inches these pint size pups will steal your heart.

There are actually two versions of the Chinese Crested dogs, generally both versions can be born in the same litter. The first is the Hairless version and the one we are going to discuss and there is the Powder Puff version also. The hairless dogs have hair on their head, feet and tail. Some, which are considered the Hairy Hairless have a small amount of hair on their rump as well. The Hairless Chinese Crested does need special care year round for their skin.

The Chinese Crested Hairless needs to be bathed regularly or they can develop a slight odor and an acne problem. The pimples can start of as small blackheads and progress into a larger pimple with a white head that is often called a pearl among owners and breeders.

Generally, a visit to the veterinarian can solve the pimple problem. In some of the more severe cases of acne issues, the vet might opt for a popping procedure to get rid of the pearls on the dog.

During the summer, a Chinese Crested Hairless needs to wear sunscreen so he/she does not get burned from the sun. In the winter and cooler temperatures, you will need to provide warm clothing so he/she does not get too cold. Because they do not have a fur coat, they depend on their owners to provide adequate protection from the elements of nature.

These dogs enjoy playing with their human companions, but will often play by themselves. They enjoy running outside and indoors. The Chinese Crested Hairless is very affectionate and aim to please. They are highly intelligent, learning is a breeze for them.

Overall, for a small dog they are ideal for homes with children, the elderly or any other homing situation. As long as you have time to spend with a Chinese Crested Hairless he or she will be happy.

The Chinese Crested Hairless do have some downsides when it comes to health conditions. They can lose their teeth if they are not properly cared for, they are prone to cataracts in their old age, retinal atrophy, hearing loss, seizures and glaucoma.

On a positive side, the Chinese Crested Hairless is ideal for individuals with dog allergies because they do not have fur therefore there is no dander (which is what the person is usually allergic to). This breed also does not shed and are not know for having fleas or ticks because they do not have fur.