Thinking about adding a Chinese Crested dog to your family? Well, it is important to be aware of the genetic issues that can affect this breed.
Chinese Cresteds are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain conditions that can be passed down through their genes.
By understanding these issues, you can take steps to help prevent them or catch them early, which can greatly improve your dog’s quality of life.
One of the most common genetic issues in Chinese Cresteds is dental problems.
Due to their small size and delicate jaws, these dogs are prone to dental issues such as missing teeth, overcrowding, and gum disease.
Regular dental care, including brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews, can help prevent these issues from developing.
Additionally, your veterinarian may recommend professional cleanings or other treatments to keep your dog’s teeth healthy.
Another genetic issue to be aware of is patellar luxation, which is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place.
This can cause pain and difficulty walking, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the issue.
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent patellar luxation from developing or worsening.
If you notice your dog limping or having difficulty walking, it is important to have them evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Breed Overview
Chinese Crested dogs are a small breed that belongs to the toy group. They come in two varieties – the hairless and the powderpuff variety.
Physical Characteristics
The hairless variety of the Chinese Crested dog has exposed skin and a crest of hair on its head, socks on its lower legs and feet, and a plume of hair on its tail.
The powderpuff variety has a full double coat of fur all over its body. Chinese Crested dogs have almond-shaped eyes and a graceful appearance.
They do not shed much, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
Personality Traits
Chinese Crested dogs are friendly and affectionate. They love to be around people and are known for their loyalty. They are also intelligent and easy to train.
Chinese Crested dogs are a good choice for families with children, as they are patient and gentle. They are also good with other pets.
In summary, Chinese Crested dogs are a small and friendly breed that come in two varieties – the hairless and the powderpuff.
They have a graceful appearance and are easy to train. If you are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion, a Chinese Crested dog may be the perfect choice for you.
Common Genetic Disorders
If you’re considering getting a Chinese Crested dog, it’s important to be aware of the potential genetic disorders that they may be prone to.
Here are some of the most common genetic disorders that affect Chinese Crested dogs:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, is a group of inherited eye diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This can lead to blindness.
There are several types of PRA, but the most common type in Chinese Crested dogs is called Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-PRCD).
This type of PRA is caused by a mutation in a specific gene. It is important to have your Chinese Crested dog tested for PRA-PRCD, especially if you plan to breed them.
Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)
Primary Lens Luxation, or PLL, is a hereditary disease that affects the eyes.
It occurs when the fibers that hold the lens in place break down, causing the lens to become dislocated.
This can lead to glaucoma and blindness. PLL is caused by a mutation in a specific gene.
It is important to have your Chinese Crested dog tested for PLL, especially if you plan to breed them.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar Luxation is a condition where the kneecap (patella) dislocates from its normal position. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
Patellar Luxation is a common problem in small dog breeds, including Chinese Crested dogs. It can be caused by a genetic predisposition, trauma, or other factors.
Canine Multiple System Degeneration (CMSD)
Canine Multiple System Degeneration, or CMSD, is a genetic neurodegenerative disorder that is exclusive to Chinese Crested dogs.
It typically presents between 8 months to 2 years of age, progressively worsening over time.
Signs can include an awkward gait, difficulty walking, tremors, and eventually, problems with swallowing.
There is no cure for CMSD, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
It’s important to note that not all Chinese Crested dogs will develop these genetic disorders.
However, it’s always a good idea to have your dog tested for these conditions, especially if you plan to breed them.
By being aware of these potential health issues, you can take steps to ensure that your Chinese Crested dog lives a long and healthy life.
Eye Health
As with any breed, Chinese Crested dogs are prone to certain eye health issues.
Being aware of these issues and taking proper precautions can help prevent or minimize the impact of these genetic conditions.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye increases, causing damage to the optic nerve. This can lead to vision loss and even blindness.
Chinese Crested dogs are prone to primary open-angle glaucoma, a type of glaucoma that develops slowly over time.
Symptoms of glaucoma in dogs include redness in the eye, cloudiness of the cornea, and enlargement of the eyeball.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Night Blindness
Night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, is a condition in which the dog has difficulty seeing in low light conditions.
Chinese Crested dogs are prone to a type of night blindness called progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
PRA is a genetic condition that causes the retina to degenerate over time, eventually leading to blindness.
Symptoms of PRA in dogs include difficulty seeing in low light conditions, dilated pupils, and a reflective shine to the eyes.
There is no cure for PRA, but early diagnosis can help slow the progression of the disease.
To help maintain your Chinese Crested’s eye health, it is important to schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian and to be aware of any changes in your dog’s vision.
You should also keep your dog’s eyes clean and free of debris, and avoid exposing your dog to bright sunlight or other sources of UV light.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your Chinese Crested enjoys good eye health throughout their life.
Grooming and Care
Chinese Crested dogs require regular grooming and care to keep their skin and coat healthy. Here are some tips for taking care of your Chinese Crested dog:
Skin Care for the Hairless
Since Chinese Cresteds are a hairless breed, their skin is sensitive and requires special attention.
You should clean your dog’s skin regularly to prevent dirt and oil buildup, which can cause skin irritations.
Use a gentle shampoo designed for sensitive skin and avoid using harsh chemicals or fragrances that can irritate your dog’s skin.
Chinese Cresteds are prone to sunburn, so it’s important to protect their skin from the sun.
You can use a pet-safe sunscreen to protect your dog’s skin when you take them outside.
Additionally, you should keep your dog’s skin moisturized to prevent dryness and cracking.
Use a pet-safe moisturizer or oil to keep your dog’s skin healthy and hydrated.
Coat Maintenance for the Powderpuff
If your Chinese Crested has a powderpuff coat, you will need to groom them regularly to keep their coat healthy.
Brush your dog’s coat at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling. Use a slicker brush to remove any loose hair and a comb to detangle any knots.
You should also bathe your Chinese Crested regularly to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Use a gentle shampoo designed for sensitive skin and avoid using harsh chemicals or fragrances that can irritate your dog’s skin.
After bathing, dry your dog’s coat thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause skin irritations.
Chinese Cresteds require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
Take your dog for daily walks or play with them in the yard to provide them with the exercise they need.
Additionally, you should provide your dog with plenty of toys and activities to keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
By following these grooming and care tips, you can keep your Chinese Crested healthy and happy for years to come.
Breeding and Genetics
As mentioned, Chinese Crested dogs (like all dog breeds) can be prone to genetic issues that can be passed down through their breeding lines.
As a breeder, it is your responsibility to ensure that you are breeding healthy and genetically sound dogs.
Breeder Responsibilities
To ensure that you are breeding healthy Chinese Crested dogs, you must take several responsibilities as a breeder.
Firstly, you must have a breeding program that focuses on producing healthy puppies.
This includes selecting dogs with good health and temperament, as well as a good pedigree.
It is important to research the health history of the dogs you plan to breed to avoid any genetic issues.
Secondly, you should have your breeding dogs undergo genetic mapping and testing.
This will help you identify any genetic issues that could be passed down to their offspring.
You can then avoid breeding dogs that carry these genetic issues, which will help reduce the likelihood of these issues being passed down to future generations.
Finally, you should ensure that your breeding program is ethical and transparent.
You should be open and honest with potential puppy buyers about the health of your breeding dogs and any genetic issues that may be present in your breeding lines.
This will help ensure that your puppies go to loving and responsible homes.
Genetic Mapping and Testing
Genetic mapping and testing are essential tools for breeders to ensure that they are producing healthy puppies.
Chinese Crested dogs can be prone to several genetic issues, including multiple system degeneration and primary lens luxation.
By having your breeding dogs undergo genetic testing, you can identify any genetic issues that they may carry.
Genetic testing can also help you make informed breeding decisions.
For example, if one of your breeding dogs carries a genetic issue, you can avoid breeding them to another dog that also carries the same issue.
This will help reduce the likelihood of the issue being passed down to their offspring.
In conclusion, breeding Chinese Crested dogs requires a lot of responsibility and care.
As a breeder, you must have a breeding program that focuses on producing healthy puppies, genetic mapping and testing, and ethical and transparent practices.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your puppies go to loving and responsible homes and that the breed remains healthy and genetically sound.
Nail and Dental Care
Taking care of your Chinese Crested’s nails and teeth is an important part of their overall health.
Neglecting these areas can lead to painful and costly health problems down the line. Here are some tips to help you keep your pup’s nails and teeth in tip-top shape.
Nail Care
Chinese Cresteds have long, thin nails that grow quickly and can easily become overgrown.
Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even pain when walking or standing. To prevent this, you should trim your dog’s nails regularly.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take your dog to a professional groomer or veterinarian to have it done.
When trimming your dog’s nails, be sure to avoid cutting the quick, which is the blood vessel that runs through the nail.
If you accidentally cut the quick, it can be painful and bleed profusely.
To avoid this, use sharp nail clippers and take small snips off the end of the nail until you see a small black dot in the center of the nail.
This dot indicates that you are close to the quick, and you should stop trimming at this point.
Dental Care
Chinese Cresteds are prone to dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
To keep your dog’s teeth healthy, you should brush their teeth regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs.
You can also give your dog dental chews or toys to help clean their teeth and freshen their breath.
It’s also important to take your dog to the veterinarian for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
During these visits, the veterinarian can identify any dental problems and treat them before they become more serious.
Dental problems can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss, so it’s important to stay on top of your dog’s dental care.
By following these tips, you can help keep your Chinese Crested healthy and happy for years to come.
Kennel Club Recognition
If you are interested in Chinese Crested dogs, you may be curious about their recognition by the Kennel Club.
The Kennel Club is the UK’s largest organization dedicated to the health and welfare of dogs.
They provide registration, show, and event services for pedigree dogs and their owners.
The Chinese Crested was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991. This breed is also recognized by the Kennel Club in the UK as part of the Toy Group.
The Kennel Club recognizes two varieties of Chinese Crested: the Hairless and the Powderpuff.
The Hairless variety has hair on its head, tail, and feet, while the Powderpuff has a soft and silky coat.
The Kennel Club has strict breeding standards for Chinese Crested dogs that are registered with them.
These standards help ensure that the breed remains healthy and free from genetic disorders.
The Kennel Club also provides breeders with information on health testing and responsible breeding practices.
If you are interested in showing your Chinese Crested dog, you can participate in Kennel Club events such as conformation shows.
These events allow you to showcase your dog’s physical appearance and temperament.
The Kennel Club also offers training and education programs for owners and breeders.
Overall, the Kennel Club’s recognition of the Chinese Crested breed helps promote responsible breeding practices and the health and welfare of these unique and beloved dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What common health problems do Chinese Crested dogs face?
Like all breeds, Chinese Crested dogs are susceptible to certain health issues. Some of the most common problems include dental issues, allergies, and skin problems.
Additionally, Chinese Crested dogs may be prone to certain genetic disorders such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMSD).
How can genetic testing benefit Chinese Crested dogs?
Genetic testing can help identify potential health issues in Chinese Crested dogs, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
In addition, testing can help breeders make informed decisions about which dogs to breed in order to reduce the incidence of genetic disorders in future generations.
What is the average lifespan of a Chinese Crested dog?
The average lifespan of a Chinese Crested dog is around 13-15 years.
However, with proper care and attention, some Chinese Crested dogs have been known to live into their late teens or even early twenties.
Are there any hereditary skin conditions in Chinese Crested dogs?
Yes, Chinese Crested dogs are prone to a number of hereditary skin conditions. These include acne, sebaceous adenitis, and follicular dysplasia.
Regular grooming and skin care can help prevent or manage these conditions.
What allergies are Chinese Crested dogs susceptible to?
Chinese Crested dogs may be prone to a number of allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and flea allergies.
Symptoms of allergies in Chinese Crested dogs may include itching, redness, and inflammation of the skin, as well as ear infections and other related issues.
How can I find a reputable Chinese Crested breeder?
When looking for a Chinese Crested breeder, it is important to do your research and find a breeder who is reputable and responsible.
Look for a breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and who is willing to answer your questions and provide references.
Additionally, be sure to visit the breeder in person and ask to see the dogs and their living conditions.