Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is quite playful indoors, where they often jump, prance and swat at objects like a cat. They love to hug and be hugged, but unlike most dogs, they can almost actually grasp onto others. They have a long hare foot with elongated toes that helps them grip onto toes and people.

They are not overtly gregarious or outgoing, but they can be social among people whom they can tell appreciate their charming personalities and interesting appearances. Although most Chinese Cresteds will not go out of their way to make friends outside their family, they tend to bond so closely to their owners that they will trail along behind them throughout the house. Take care to socialize these small, delicate dogs with plenty of people while they are still puppies so that they do not develop timid, anti-social tendencies. Once they are comfortable with people, they won't want to let them out of their sight.

Chinese Crested dogs have two coat types, and puppies with each kind of coat are born in the same litter. Hairless Chinese Cresteds have silky hair on the head, which is known as the "crest," and on the tail and feet. The Powderpuff Chinese Crested have a recessive gene that gives them a full coat.

The Hairless Chinese Crested is mostly bald. They have soft, flowing hair that resembles human hair on the tops of their heads, the plume of their tail, and covering their feet. Despite their names, Hairless Chinese Cresteds aren't completely hairless. They have hair on their body that needs to be shaved to protect their skin.

Powderpuff Chinese Cresteds have coats in a variety of colors, like mahogany, blue, lavender, copper and gray. Many of the coats are spotted or multi-colored. The Hairless Chinese Crested has pink or black skin. Using excessive amounts of sun block or moisturizers might seem like a great way to protect their sensitive skin, but it actually leaves them even more prone to infection and skin problems. Make sure to bathe the Hairless Chinese Crested frequently with moisturizing shampoo.  Chinese Cresteds can be prone to dental issues, and the Hairless variety are especially vulnerable. Make sure to brush their teeth at least twice a week and check for irregularities and infection. Powderpuff Chinese Cresteds need to be brushed regularly with a pin or bristle brush, paying special attention to the long, silky under coat, which mats easily. Some owners choose to shave the faces of their Powderpuff Chinese Cresteds to help them stay comfortable and tidy. Some Powderpuffs develop mats between the pads of their feet as well, so be sure to check their feet and trim any excess hair around the feet.