History of the Breed:
The origin of this gracefull little dog is still unknown. Due to its natural lack of hair, they feel it originates from a warm climate. Some say it originated in Mexico or Central Africa. I've also read they made for great "mousers" on ships (very little hair meant few fleas) ,therefore traveled near and far- and were also traded near and far.
There are many stories surrounding this unusual breed. I have read that the Chinese emperors used them as foot warmers due to their extra body heat. I've also heard them referred to in the U.K. as the "Hearing Ear Dog", as they make great helpers to hearing impaired people. Mostly, from what I've read and experienced they are most known for their companionship. Their small size makes them easy to travel with. They tend to love and enchant everyone they meet and are very loyal and affectionate. They make great companions to old and young alike. They have a great ability to both play and snuggle which endears them to anyone who sees them. Generally a very curious breed with high intelligence.
Their "extreme" look is obviously the first thing a person notices when first seeing a Chinese Crested. Most everyone is amazed to find they come "fully clothed". Meaning the "Powderpuff" variety. In a single litter you may have both hairless and powderpuffs. The powderpuffs personality being identical to the hairless just having a full coat. With both an undercoat and a long top coat and found in many colors, they make a stunning pet. Both varieties generally weigh between 5-12 pounds and stand 9-13 inches tall. One characteristic that people are always curious about is the "shiver". The hairless Chinese Cresteds body temperature is 1 degree warmer than all other dogs. This is to help compensate for the lack of the 2 coats the others have. The shivering happens as their body temperature cools down their bodies react the same way as ours- they shiver to warm themselves. People misunderstand this behavior as anxiety or fear. In reality they're just "chilly".
Cresteds have been known to affect people with allergies less than many other breeds. I've heard people refer to them as "Hypo Allergenic". I wouldn't exactly say that. Being that it is actually the saliva that people are usually allergic to Chinese Cresteds will affect some people, as they do lick and clean their paws and faces as other dogs do. Both varieties shed very little if at all therefore are less likely to affect those with allergies.
Grooming:
Obviously the powderpuff requires a bit more grooming. Generally, brushing once a week will keep their coats in good shape. Within this breed there seems to be many different textures and amounts of hair. From very hairless to "hairy" hairless to semi-coat to powderpuff, everyone seem to prefer a type. I personally prefer the "hairy" hairless. Their crests, socks and tail plumes are much more full and flashy. This also gives them some protection to the natural elements. As we live in Missouri and Minnesota it is important to keep them safe from not only the cold weather in the winter but sunburn and mosquitos in the summer months. (Also-you don't feel quite so guilty making them go out in the middle of winter!)
Just like with humans, there are some with very clear skin and others with acne. Yes, acne. Apparently, all dogs can have acne but their coats keep most of the dirt and oils from reaching the skin. In our experience the more hair the less acne. (Another reason I enjoy the "hairy" hairless.) As the hairless pup makes it through puberty (6- 9 months of age) the acne, if it has it, will usually clear up - just like a teenager. Some will continue with some "blemishes".
Socialization:
This breed is great fun to socialize. Being naturally sweet and interested in people they are always happy to see you. Their voracious appetites (I still haven't found anything mine dislike) are a great way to their hearts- they learn very early on that you bring the puppy food! Keeping them socialized is the key to a great breeder. As the pups mature they tend to keep each other amused and may try only to rely on us for the "chow". Keeping them interested in people is the key. I must say I have not found too many things that I enjoy more than sitting in the middle of a litter of pups, watching them play and learn the social hiearchy.
Interesting Facts:
As I mentioned earlier, the hairless can get sunburned. They should be covered with sunscreen whenever in the sun. It is best to avoid any products with Aloe as their skin seems to be irratated by it. We have found that "Oil Of Olay" face lotion with SPF15 works really well for sun protection as well as using it as a regular part of their grooming for dry skin. Childrens sunscreens with higher SPF's work well for a lot of exposure to the sun. Keep in mind they do tan and will turn dark in the summer, sometimes filling in the white leopard like spots they usually have.
Chinese Crested have poor teeth development. The hairless AKC standard allows for this. While the Powderpuff variety needs a full set of teeth to compete in the show ring. Cresteds also tend to develop their teeth at a slower rate than most other breeds. Due to this we at Dare To Be Bare Kennels will not allow our puppies to leave any sooner than 10 weeks of age. We have found that not only are their teeth more developed but they adapt to their new homes and owners better as they miss their mother and litter mates less at this age.
We hope you enjoy this breed as much as we do.
Daretobebare Chinese Cresteds
