The Chinese Crested can come in two distinct varieties. The hairless and the fully-coated Powderpuff. Both varieties can be born in the same litter. The hairless has hair on the head(crest), feet(socks), and tail(plume). The powderpuff is covered in a long, silky double coat. The skin of the hairless is soft and warmer to the touch. Unlike other dogs, hairless Cresteds sweat instead of pant. Which requires them to have more frequent baths, especially in warm weather. If their skin is not kept clean, they can develop blackheads and acne. Most hairless will need a lotion to keep their skin from getting too dry. They also need a sunscreen in the summer to prevent sunburn. Many Crested are allergic or irritated by wool and wool products, so you must take care when choosing bedding and sweaters. Also many lotions contain lanolin which is a wool by-product, that can also irritate. It is said that hairless Chinese Cresteds do well with people that have allergies. The average height of the Chinese Crested in 11-13", but it is not uncommon for them to be slightly smaller or larger.
