Chinese Crested: bathing, clipping and coat care

The Chinese Crested has a sparse coat. See how we care for it in the salon, how often to visit and what to do at home.

SizeSmall
Weight3–6 kg
Height23–33 cm
CoatSparse
SheddingLow
Chinese Crested
Photo: Frank Röhm · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons (cropped)

Breed facts

FCI groupGroup 9: Companion and toy dogs
OriginChina
Weight3–6 kg
Height23–33 cm
Life expectancy13–16 years

Temperament

Playful, affectionate and very attached to its owner, it loves laps and attention. Sensitive to the cold.

History

Its exact origin is uncertain; it is said sailors kept them on ships as ratters.

Fun facts

The same litter can include hairless puppies and “powderpuff” puppies with a long coat.

The Chinese Crested coat

The hairless variety has hair only on the head, paws and tail; the powderpuff variety has a long, fine coat all over.

There are two varieties (hairless and powderpuff); hairless skin needs protection from sun and cold.

What we do in the salon

A gentle bath with sensitive-skin products and conditioning. On the coated variety, we detangle and do a scissor cut.

Recommended services

  • Bathabout 1 h
  • Scissor cutabout 2 h

How often?

Bathevery 3 to 4 weeks
Cut / upkeepOn the coated variety, a cut every 6 to 8 weeks.

Care at home between visits

  1. Moisturise the skin and protect it from sun and cold.
  2. Clean the skin gently: blackheads can appear.
  3. On the powderpuff variety, brush often.
  4. Keep it warm in winter.

Frequently asked questions about the Chinese Crested

Does the Chinese Crested shed a lot?

It sheds little. Even so, the coat can tangle or build up, so it should be brushed regularly.

How often should I bring my Chinese Crested to the salon?

In general, a bath every 3 to 4 weeks. On the coated variety, a cut every 6 to 8 weeks. It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.

How long do a bath and a clip take?

When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.

Does hairless skin need special care?

Yes: it needs moisturising, sun protection and a coat in cold weather, plus gentle cleaning to avoid blackheads.

Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.