How to Groom a Chinese Crested

Introduction to Grooming Needs of Chinese Cresteds

The Chinese Crested is a unique and eye-catching breed, known for its distinct appearance. There are two varieties of the Chinese Crested: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. The Hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on the head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks). The Powderpuff, on the other hand, boasts a full coat of fine, silky hair. Due to these differences, grooming requirements vary between the two varieties. Regardless of the variety, understanding the specific grooming needs of the Chinese Crested is essential to ensure their skin and coat remain healthy.

Brushing Basics

For the Powderpuff variety, regular brushing is crucial to prevent tangles and matting. Given their fine, silky coat, a pin brush or a soft-bristle brush is ideal. Gentle strokes should be used to avoid breaking the delicate hair. Regular brushing also helps remove any loose hair and distributes the natural oils of the coat, promoting a shiny appearance.

The Hairless variety, while requiring less brushing, still needs attention to its tufts of hair. The crest, plume, and socks should be brushed gently to prevent tangles and to keep them looking neat.

Bath Time: How Often and What to Use

The Hairless Chinese Crested, due to its exposed skin, is prone to skin issues like acne and blackheads. Regular bathing, typically once a week or every other week, can help keep their skin clean and reduce the risk of skin problems. When bathing, it’s essential to use a gentle, moisturizing dog-specific shampoo. After the bath, applying a moisturizer or lotion can help keep their skin soft and hydrated.

The Powderpuff variety doesn’t require as frequent baths as the Hairless. Bathing once a month or when they get notably dirty is usually sufficient. A gentle dog-specific shampoo that maintains the silkiness of their coat is recommended. Ensure you rinse thoroughly to prevent any shampoo residue, which can lead to skin irritations.

For both varieties, it’s essential to ensure the bathing experience is positive. Using lukewarm water and providing treats and praises can make the process smoother for your Chinese Crested.

Nail Trimming: Tips and Precautions

Regular nail trimming is essential for Chinese Cresteds to ensure their comfort and to prevent potential injuries. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort, affect the dog’s gait, and even lead to painful conditions if they get caught on something or split.

For Chinese Cresteds, a guillotine-style or scissor-style nail clipper designed for small breeds is often recommended. Before you start, make sure to have styptic powder or cornstarch on hand to stop bleeding in case you accidentally cut the quick.

When trimming, hold your Chinese Crested’s paw firmly but gently. Trim a small amount of the nail at a time, avoiding the quick. If your Chinese Crested has clear nails, the quick will appear as a pinkish area inside the nail. For dogs with darker nails, it’s trickier to spot the quick, so it’s best to trim in small increments.

Addressing Skin Issues in Chinese Cresteds

The Hairless variety of the Chinese Crested is particularly prone to skin issues, including blackheads, acne, and sunburn. Regular bathing, as mentioned earlier, can help keep their skin clean and reduce the risk of skin problems. However, resist the urge to squeeze blackheads and pimples, as this can cause infections and permanently discolor the skin.

For sun protection, especially during the warmer months, it’s essential to apply a dog-safe sunscreen to the Hairless Chinese Crested’s exposed skin. This will help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Safe Grooming Practices and Potential Challenges

Grooming a Chinese Crested requires patience and understanding of the breed’s specific needs. Always use dog-specific grooming products to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet. Human products can contain ingredients that are harsh on a dog’s skin and can lead to irritations or allergies.

One of the potential challenges with grooming Chinese Cresteds, especially the Hairless variety, is their sensitive skin. Regularly check for any signs of skin irritations, rashes, or infections. If you notice any abnormalities, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.

Another challenge is the Chinese Crested’s delicate nature. It’s essential to ensure that grooming sessions are calm and positive, using treats and praises to reward good behavior.