The Chinese Crested Dog may seem fragile at first glance, but it is surprisingly adaptable and robust. Although its appearance takes some getting used to, it has a loving nature and good behavior, which makes it an excellent family dog. It is easy to train and is also suitable for novice dog owners. Despite its small space requirements, it needs plenty of exercise, care and the closeness of its family.
Content: Chinese Crested Dog
- profile
- Special features
- Nutrition
- Health and care
- Origin & History
- The right accessories
- Conclusion
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Chinese Crested Dog - Profile
- Character: Adaptable, loving, well-behaved
- Size: Small
- Height: 23-33 cm
- Weight: 2.3-5.4 kg
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Coat type: Hairless or fully haired
- Colour: Any colour or colour combination is permitted
- FCI Group: Companion and Toy Dogs
Chinese Crested Dog - Special Characteristics
There are two varieties of the Chinese Crested Dog. One variety, the "Powder Puff", has an undercoat and thin, long topcoat hair that acts like a veil. The second variety, the "Hairless", is more well-known and has bare skin except on the paws, the tip of the tail, and the head. In breeding, the "Deer type" has prevailed, in which the dog is delicate, small, and slender. However, there is also the "Cobby type", in which the dog is stocky and powerfully built. The skin of Chinese Crested Dogs is soft and warm, although their body temperature is no higher than that of other breeds. In breeding, care is taken to ensure that the skin is dark to protect against the sun. Pigmentation may increase in summer and decrease in winter. The coat is usually white to light gray.
Chinese Crested Dog - What should be considered regarding nutrition?
The Chinese Crested Dog does not have any special dietary requirements and can be fed high-quality dry food or fresh food. However, be aware that this breed has higher energy requirements than similarly sized dogs due to the lack of fur. Therefore, it requires more food to compensate for its increased basal metabolic rate. Look for high-quality food with little or no grain, sugar and a high meat content. If your dog is prone to allergies and exhibits skin problems, switching to a grain-free food with a single exotic protein source such as horse or ostrich may be a good option.
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Chinese Crested Dog - Health and Care
Due to the lack of fur, these dogs are sensitive to the elements. Protection from excessive wetness and cold, especially in the cold, is necessary. In rainy weather, they should not be outside for too long to avoid colds. Sun protection is important in summer, especially for dogs with fair skin and low pigmentation. Skin care should be done all year round with a suitable skin cream that is free of harmful chemicals, as the dog may lick it off.
Chinese Crested Dog - Origin & History
The exact origin and ancestry of the Chinese Crested Dog is not fully understood. This breed has been widespread in China, South Asia, Europe and Africa for centuries. However, it is certain that the Chinese Crested Dog is closely related to the Mexican and Peruvian Hairless Dog. This breed was already known in the 12th century BC, and in China, one of its presumed countries of origin, it was probably bred during the Han Dynasty around 206 BC. Initially, the Chinese Crested Dog was used both as a guard dog and as a hunting dog. It reached other continents with sailors and eventually became increasingly popular as a domestic dog. In the USA it was a sought-after show dog until the 1920s, and in 1987 the Chinese Crested Dog was finally recognized as an independent dog breed by the FCI breeding association .
Chinese Crested Dog - The right accessories
The Chinese Crested Dog is vulnerable to cold and should therefore be given ample opportunities to warm up. This can be done through dog blankets, a soft padded basket or even a pet den with a heat source all around. Appropriate clothing is essential for walks, such as a rain cover for wet and cool weather or a warm-lined dog coat in winter that covers the entire torso. In summer, a light dog shirt can serve as sun protection. Due to its delicate skin, the Chinese Crested Dog should be secured with a chest harness to avoid choking and damage to the windpipe. Skin care requires a natural skin cream with food-grade ingredients that absorbs quickly and does not leave greasy stains. Regular brushing, nail clippers, dog toothbrush and toothpaste are also necessary.
Conclusion
The Chinese Crested Dog may seem fragile at first glance, but it is surprisingly adaptable and robust. Although its appearance takes some getting used to, it has a loving nature and good behavior, which makes it an excellent family dog. It is easy to train and is also suitable for novice dog owners. Despite its small space requirements, it needs plenty of exercise, care and the closeness of its family.
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