The Chinese Crested is a dog that no fur on the body, only on the crest, the tail and the legs like socks it is. This friendly companion dog has undoubtedly earned a place of honor for being one of the most unique looking pets around. As particular as their appearance are the multiple theories about the origin of the race.
The name of Chinese Crested is mainly due to the crest that adorns the head already one of the many destinies attributed to the race. The only sure thing about this dog is that its appearance does not come from canis communis like most dogs.
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The naked or hairless breeds were already known in Latin America, among which stand out the hairless dog of Peru. Therefore, one of the theories affirms that from there the ridge left for China through the Pacific as a gift for the Asian nobility.
The exact time the breed was in China is not known., but it is assumed that being a companion breed it should not have done very well during the difficult periods of that country's history. The unique way in which the tufts of hair located on the head, tail and legs were presented caught the attention of another powerful empire, the British. It was in the United Kingdom that the Chinese Crested consolidated all the standards of its breed and later was exported to the United States, where it took hold.
As usual, there is also a variety of these dogs that are covered in fur, but it was not until a few years ago that they were considered as equals, currently competing without disadvantage in dog shows. There is documentation that says The Chinese Crested was used as a buzzard during the XNUMXth century and was a companion dog of the Manchu.
Its entry to Europe was at the end of the XNUMXth century under the tutelage of Ida Garrett. As mentioned previously the breed has two varieties, hairless and with hair, also called powderpuff.
Characteristics of the two varieties
The two varieties of the Chinese Crested They are so different that they seem different races but they are not and although it seems difficult to believe, the only difference is in the coat, since with respect to the other characteristics the standards are the same.
This small size breed belongs to small pets, having a height for the female between 23 and 30 centimeters and the male with 28 and 33 centimeters maximum. They are not very heavy either, since neither genus exceeds 5,4 kilograms. The body is longer than it is tall, flexible with a rounded rump and the tail never curves over the horizontal back. The head has a rounded cranial bony structure with a short muzzle and the ears are high, except in the variety with hair that can also be drooping.
The coat is the most characteristic sign of the hairless variety, since only shows a few tufts on the crest, legs and tail, while the powderpuff features a double layer of hair. The Naked Chinese Crested has smooth skin that feels to the touch, similar to that of humans.
Character and behavior of the Chinese Crested
This shy and nervous animal he is very loyal to his owner with which he develops an unbreakable bond of fidelity and affection. Their character is sensitive and cheerful with the characteristic attachment of lap or companion dogs and their tendency to nervousness shows them always alert. It is advisable to educate them to socialize without fear and it is very important not to subject them to stressful situations. They have a high-pitched bark that they don't hesitate to show whenever something catches their eye.
Common health and diseases
Among the most common diseases that this breed can develop is the Calvé-Perthes-Legg disease. It is advisable to be vigilant during the puppy's first year to prevent it, since if it is neglected and the symptoms are not addressed can be very painful, complicate and incapacitate them for life.
La early tooth loss and skin lesions Due to allergies or extensive sun exposures, they can also be prevented with the corresponding care and attention.
Care and hygiene
The difference between the two varieties of Chinese Crested will lie mainly in the care of the coat or the skin as the case may be. The life expectancy of this pet varies between 13 and 15 years, depending on the care given to it. In the powderpuff variety its hair should be brushed with a suitable comb and daily.
On the other hand, the strands of the hairless variety will be brushed two to three times a week. The bath will be done once a month and in the hairless one every fifteen days. The veterinarian should be consulted about the appropriate products to use for each variety.
The teeth must be cared for with special attention, for that it is advisable to accustom him from puppy to tooth brushing, as it will prevent gum infections or the loss of a limb. As part of the special care of the hairless variety, they should not be exposed to solar radiation very frequently. To do it the use of a sunscreen is necessary recommended by the vet.
It is also important to take daily walks, taking into account that the hairless variety does not have a protective coatTherefore, care must be taken that the terrain where you walk does not represent a danger in order to avoid skin injuries as much as possible. As with all pets, it is necessary that you make at least one annual visit to the veterinarian and receive their vaccinations on the corresponding dates. Always ask about food and care that you must supply to the pet by buying food and hygiene products specifically intended for the breed.
Do not forget parasites or mites and keep areas like the eyes and ears free from any infection that can get complicated. Your emotional balance is very important, so daily walks and frequent company are recommended.
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