Chinese Cresteds are Hypo Allergenic and do not shed. However they still do need regular care and grooming. Even though they do not shed, you will need to comb and brush them to keep the tangles out of their hair. Powder Puffs will need face trimming with small clippers. The Hairless type will need the face trimming and body and leg trimming to clean up the stubble. Both need regular nail clipping as well.

Ear Taping.....

     ears up.jpg     There are many different ways of doing this, different procedures and different materials. Ear taping is done to make the ears stand up instead of laying down. This is something that breeders do for showing. If you are looking for a companion, you do not have to do this if you wish not to.

     ears up2.jpg      There are a few links below to help educate you on the how to's of ear taping. The first link is to a three part video showing you one method. The second is directions on another method. And if you need any further assistance please feel free to ask.

www.ragglerock.ca/grooming.asp

www.crestars.com/ear_taping.htm

Health Problems

     Exposed skin needs special care to prevent skin problems and irritation. This breed should be protected with sunscreen in the summer. Many Chinese Cresteds are allergic to lanolin and wool. Their teeth should be well cared for to prevent decay. Hairless dogs often lose many teeth as young adults. The Hairless variety had the ancient forward pointing canine teeth or "tusks" but usually these are the first teeth to go. Powder Puffs generally have normal teeth. Do not over feed this breed as they tend to become obese if given the chance.

Grooming

      Chinese Cresteds are very clean dogs and are not prone to dogie odor, fleas, and ticks. Powder Puffs will need more grooming then the Hairless with daily brushing to prevent matting of their long fine coat. The Powder Puff can be bathed every 2 to 4 weeks. The Hairless needs to be bathed at least once a week. Its better to bath the Hairless in human tearless shampoo. For dry skin you can use lotion, but not baby oil as this will cause black heads. Body hair can be shaved off with electric clippers about every week depending on how fast the hair grows and how much the dog has.