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Grooming and Maintenance Requirements of the Chinese Crested Dog

Focused view of Chinese Crested face

The grooming needs of the Chinese Crested Dog can vary depending on whether you have a hairless or powder puff variety. However, both require specific care to keep them healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.


Hairless Chinese Crested:

Despite their lack of fur, hairless Chinese Crested Dogs require a unique grooming routine:

  • Sun Protection: Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs are prone to sunburn. Applying a dog-safe sunscreen or dressing them in protective clothing when they are outdoors in sunny weather is essential.
  • Skin Care: Regularly moisturize their skin with a pet-friendly lotion or coconut oil to prevent dryness or flaking.
  • Bathing: Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs should be bathed regularly, typically once every one to two weeks, using a mild dog shampoo. This helps keep their skin clean and free from oils and debris.
  • Nail and Ear Care: Keep their nails trimmed to prevent overgrowth, and check and clean their ears regularly to avoid infection.


Powder Puff Chinese Crested:

The powder puff variety has a soft, double coat that requires more grooming than the hairless type:

  • Brushing: Brush your powder puff Chinese Crested several times a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Use a slicker brush or a pin brush to reach through their double coat.
  • Bathing: Powder puff Chinese Crested Dogs should be bathed regularly, typically every three to four weeks, to maintain the cleanliness and health of their coat.
  • Ear Care: As with hairless Chinese Crested Dogs, keep an eye on their ears and clean them as needed to prevent infection.
  • Nail Trimming: Regular nail trimming is essential to keep their nails from becoming too long.


Do Chinese Crested Powder Puffs Lose Their Hair?

No, powder puff Chinese Crested Dogs do not lose their hair like some other breeds that shed seasonally. They have a non-shedding, double coat that requires regular grooming to manage. While they don't "lose" their hair, their coat can become tangled or matted if not properly cared for.


Are Chinese Crested Dogs Hypoallergenic?

Chinese Crested Dogs, especially the hairless variety, are often considered hypoallergenic because they do not shed much and produce fewer allergenic proteins. However, it's important to note that no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic, and individual sensitivities vary. People with allergies should spend time with a Chinese Crested or consult an allergist before bringing one into their home.


How Often Should I Bathe My Chinese Crested?

The frequency of bathing your Chinese Crested dog depends on their type:

  • Hairless Chinese Crested: Bathe them once every one to two weeks to keep their skin clean and free from oils and debris. Frequent bathing helps maintain their skin health.
  • Powder Puff Chinese Crested: Bathe them approximately every three to four weeks to maintain the cleanliness and health of their coat. Over-bathing can strip their skin and coat of natural oils, so be mindful not to bathe them excessively.


Remember that individual circumstances may affect the ideal bathing schedule, so adjust as needed based on your dog's activity level and specific grooming needs. Always use a mild, dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritating their skin.

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