Lively and spirited; the Chinese Crested is a versatile companion. Cresteds are an excellent choice whether your event is AKC conformation shows, obedience trials, agility, or tracking . They have also been known to excel in lure coursing, as well as other events. Quite unlike others of the toy class, the Crested is a non-yapper. Clownish , and animated, this little dog delights in being with their owners, whether they’re playing a game of ball or watching the game on TV. The Chinese Crested is a wonderful and unique companion. Give them the proper love and care they are so deserving of, and you will be rewarded with  affection and loyalty for many years to come .

Varieties:
There are two distinct variety's of Chinese Crested Dogs, the Powderpuff which is fully coated, having a double coat of moderate length, and the Hairless. The hairless do vary as to amount of body hair. A true hairless has no body hair, only a crest, tail plume, and socks. The hairy hairless can have as little as a strip of hair down it's back to being nearly covered in body hair, some denser than others. Most of the hairless that you see in the show ring today with the heavy lavish crest, plume, and socks are shaved down hairy hairless. These hairy hairless dogs must be shaved on a regular basis to maintain this look. It is important when shopping for a Crested that you specify which you prefer; a true hairless, or a hairy hairless. Here at Gaea we specialize in the true hairless, but do occasionally produce a few hairy hairless. Click here to see examples of a true hairless, versus a hairy hairless.

Care:
The Chinese Crested is relatively easy to care for. A warm water bath with a follicular cleansing shampoo, once or twice a week followed by a mild lotion to the skin will keep the skin in top condition. Be sure to read the ingredients as most Cresteds are allergic to lanolin. This adorable animal loves to sunbathe, if slowly conditioned to the sun, no sunscreen is needed or advised. Remember that the skin is actually an organ and does absorb much of what is put on it. I do use a mild organic/vegan lotion on their skin, but am careful not to apply it just prior to their going out into the hot sun, where it would act as a cooking oil on their skin and actually promote burning. As with people the pinker skinned ones burn more easily than the darker skinned ones. People have frequently asked if the Hairless Crested needs a coat or covering in the winter months. The answer to that is if you feel it is cool enough for a covering, so will the dog. A premium quality food is essential for optimum health as it is with all breeds. A food with no corn wheat or soy is recommended. These grains are common allergens in all dogs and are frequently responsible for skin eruption, shedding and dry skin as well as that offensive doggy odor coated breeds can have. The Chinese Crested is particularly fond of fresh fruits and raw vegetables. Our dogs' favorites are blue berries and green beans. We recommend NU Vet Plus supplements. It has been proven to help prevent or reduce many of the problems dogs face such as poor coat, allergies, arthritis, digestive disorders, heart disease, and tumors.