Nickname        : A Hairless Dog or a Powder Puff

Breed Origins : China ( 1200’s )

Breed usage     : Hunting rats, lapdog and companion

Dog Weight      : 5 - 12 Pounds

Dog Height       : 9 to 13 inches to the shoulder

History
Chinese Crested originates from China and was bred originally for Hunting rats. It’s origins can be dated back to the 1200’s. The Chinese Crested was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1991. This dog comes in two varieties the Hairless and the Powder Puff.
This breed of dog comes in to distinct varieties the Hairless and the Powder Puff Chinese Crested (Powderpuff). An amazing fact about the Hairless and Powder Puff Chinese Crested is that the two different types often come from the same litter of puppies. The two varieties of this rare breed of dog obviously differ not only due to the long - powder puff - hair but also the teeth differ. The Hairless Chinese Crested have pointed front teeth, referred to as tusks whereas the Powder Puffs ( Powderpuffs) have normal teeth.

Dogs in the Toy Group, which include the Chinese Crested , were initially developed to ease the lifestyle and provide pleasure to rich people. These dogs were initially owned by the wealthy and were viewed by others as status symbols - a luxury item with little apparent purpose.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colour Info
  The Chinese Crested’s coat comes in a variety of shades. The coat is normally hairless with just tufts of long, soft hair on the head, feet and tail. The other variety of this breed is called the Chinese Crested Powder Puff which has a coat of long, soft hair. Special care must be taken of the Powder Puff as regular daily grooming is required.

• Health Info and Potential Problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Chinese Crested, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Chinese Crested can include:
  • Patellar Luxation ( The patella, or kneecap, is part of the stifle joint (knee). In patellar luxation, the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place )
  • Legge-Perthes disease - A disease of the hip joint that results in abnormal deformity of the ball of the hip joint
  • Skin allergies
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is 10 – 14 years.

• Gromming and Care
  The Hairless Chinese Crested requires weekly care and grooming but the Powder Puff needs daily grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.