Physically, the Chinese Crested dog is a breed of a somewhat sensitive disposition. They are especially prone to such as digestive problems and, with the Hairless variety especially, unfortunate skin conditions. The following will address the most common skin problems Chinese Cresteds suffer from and how to combat and prevent these ailments.

The Hairless Chinese Crested dog is invariably prone to dryness. Through exercise, being outdoors and simple day to day activity, their skin can lose a lot of surface moisture and become dry and chafed, causing discomfort and perhaps even cracking and bleeding. Luckily, this is perhaps the most easily preventable and treatable. The trainer can keep the Chinese Crested's skin properly moisturized by simply bathing the dog regularly, making sure they have enough water and applying a layer of lotion before heading outdoors. There is also the problem of the dog getting sunburned. Of course it comes as no surprise that this is easily prevented by equipping the dog with a coat of sunscreen if they're heading outside when it's warm outside. Remember that sun burning can even occur on overcast days.

Their sensitive skin also makes the Chinese Crested especially prone to an allergy to wool. Even without the allergy, though, the Hairless generally find the wool uncomfortable to the bare skin, so a softer, less scratchy fabric should be used for blankets or any other surface the dog will have regular contact with.

Both the Powderpuff and Hairless variety are prone to acne, but more so for the Hairless, who have their skin regularly exposed to elements. A simple solution can be found in keeping them on a diet of clean, light foods with very little grease or oil and, of course, regular bathing. Some Hairless owners choose to wash the dog in the shower every day to save time. Bathing is perhaps the most important detail when it comes to caring for the Chinese Crested's skin.

While lotions and other topical products are recommended to keep the skin smooth, clean and moisturized, a lot of Chinese Crested dogs develop allergies to products that contain lanolin (it being wool fat), aloe-vera and the strong fragrances found in most skin care products. Of course, this may not be the case, but any product containing any of these ingredients should be given a trial run before being committed to.

Luckily, the Chinese Crested are exceptionally resistant to flea and tick infestations, especially the Hairless, given that bugs have less space to lay their eggs on the dog, so regular bathing should keep this from becoming a concern (again, regular bathing is the first and most important line of defense in caring for a Chinese Crested's skin).

Besides the above mentioned potential for sunburned skin, the Hairless potential for chapping is also to be considered in extremely cold weather. Unless the owner is willing to dress the dog up in a (non-wool) sweater every time they go outside, it might be preferable to wait until it warms up a bit before taking the Chinese Crested outdoors for prolonged periods of time.

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