Medium
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties that often appear in the same litter: the Hairless, which has silky hair only on the head (crest), tail (plume), and paws (socks), with bare, smooth skin on the body; and the Powderpuff, which is completely covered in a long, silky, soft coat. Both varieties require specialized grooming — the Hairless for its exposed skin, and the Powderpuff for its coat maintenance.
Coat Type
Hairless Variety: Bare Skin with Crest, Socks, and Plume / Powderpuff: Long, Silky, Single Coat
Groom Every
Every 4-6 weeks
Styles Available
4 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Hairless Natural Style
The Hairless variety's crest is brushed out, the socks and plume are combed, and the bare body skin is cleaned and moisturized with a pet-safe lotion. No coat trimming required.
2
Powderpuff Full Coat
The Powderpuff's long, silky, double-layer coat is maintained at its full natural length with brushing, a parted topknot, and light trimming of stray hairs around the feet and sanitary area.
3
Powderpuff Puppy Cut
The Powderpuff's coat is trimmed to a shorter, uniform length for easy maintenance. Popular for pet owners who want the breed without the intensive full coat commitment.
4
Show Hairless Presentation
The Hairless variety's skin is cleaned, the crest is fluffed and styled, and the plume and socks are combed to maximum flow. Whiskers may be removed per show preference.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- The Hairless Chinese Crested's exposed skin is vulnerable to sunburn — apply a pet-safe sunscreen to the body when the dog will be outdoors in direct sunlight, as unpigmented pink skin burns very rapidly.
- Moisturize the Hairless variety's bare skin 2-3 times per week with an unscented, pet-safe lotion — the skin lacks the protective coat oils of normal dog skin and dries, flakes, and develops acne-like conditions without hydration.
- Check the Hairless variety for blackheads, whiteheads, and skin blemishes at every grooming appointment; the breed is prone to acne on the exposed body skin that requires gentle cleansing with a warm cloth.
- The Powderpuff's soft, silky coat mats readily in the armpits, behind the ears, and in the groin — brush these areas daily with a pin brush followed by a metal comb to stay mat-free.
- Both varieties have tufted hair between the toes ('socks') that collects debris and forms mats — check and comb the sock hair weekly and trim between the paw pads regularly.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
TropiClean PerfectFur Whitening & Brightening Shampoo
ShampooNaturally whitens and brightens white coats without bleach or harsh chemicals.
$12 - $18
FURminator Long Hair deShedding Tool for Dogs
BrushThe professional-grade deshedding tool that reaches deep beneath the long topcoat to safely remove loose undercoat without cutting or damaging the guard hairs. Reduces shedding up to 90% with regular use. Essential for heavy seasonal shedders like Collies, Golden Retrievers, and Maine Coons.
$30 - $65
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Deep Dives
Chinese Crested Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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