Chinese Crested Health Issues & Care Guide
Comprehensive health guide covering common conditions, genetic testing, preventive care, and veterinary recommendations for Chinese Cresteds.
Health Overview
The hairless gene is linked to dental abnormalities, meaning hairless dogs will have incomplete dentition. Skin care is a constant requirement for the hairless variety., but like all dogs, they are prone to certain conditions. Being aware of these and working with a knowledgeable veterinarian helps ensure your Chinese Crested lives a long, healthy life.
Responsible breeders screen for the most common health issues, significantly reducing the risk of inherited conditions. Regular preventive care—vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care—is essential.
Common Health Conditions
| Condition | Frequency | Severity | Treatable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Abnormalities | Very Common | Moderate | Manageable |
| Patellar Luxation | Common | Moderate | Yes |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Occasional | Severe | No |
| Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease | Occasional | Severe | Yes |
| Sunburn and Skin Issues | Common | Moderate | Yes |
Dental Abnormalities
Hairless varieties are genetically linked to missing, crowded, or malformed teeth due to the same gene that causes hairlessness.
Patellar Luxation
Kneecap dislocation causing lameness, common in small breeds and requiring surgical correction in moderate to severe cases.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hereditary retinal degeneration causing progressive vision loss. DNA testing is available and recommended for breeding stock.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Degeneration of the femoral head due to reduced blood supply, causing hip pain and lameness typically appearing before one year of age.
Sunburn and Skin Issues
Hairless variety is extremely susceptible to sunburn, acne, and skin irritation requiring sunscreen application and skincare routines.
Recommended Health Tests
Recommended health tests for Chinese Cresteds include:
- Patellar luxation screening
- Ophthalmologist evaluation (CERF/OFA)
- Thyroid testing
- Breed-specific DNA panel—particularly important given the Chinese Crested's susceptibility to Dental Abnormalities
The hairless gene is linked to dental abnormalities, meaning hairless dogs will have incomplete dentition. Skin care is a constant requirement for the hairless variety.. Ask to see results before purchasing a puppy.
Preventive Care Schedule
A preventive care schedule for your Chinese Crested (lifespan 13–18 years) should include:
- Puppies (0-12 months): Vaccinations at 8, 12, and 16 weeks; deworming; spay/neuter discussion; weight tracking
- Adults (1-11 years): Annual wellness exam, vaccinations, heartworm test, dental cleaning, screening for Dental Abnormalities
- Seniors (11+ years): Twice-yearly exams, blood work, urinalysis, and monitoring for Dental Abnormalities and Patellar Luxation
Life Stage Health Guide
Chinese Crested life stages and what to expect over 13–18 years:
- Puppy (0-12 months): Socialization window, house training, vaccination series, growth toward 12 lbs
- Adolescent (1-2 years): Boundary testing, Eager to please and responsive to positive reinforcement. They can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Crate training and consistent housetraining routines are important early., filling out to 11–13 inches
- Prime adult (2-11 years): Peak energy (3/5), established routine, preventive care including Dental Abnormalities screening
- Senior (11+ years): Activity adjustment, monitoring for Dental Abnormalities, enhanced veterinary monitoring
Insurance Recommendation
The Chinese Crested's predisposition to Dental Abnormalities and Patellar Luxation makes pet insurance a smart investment. Plans run $38–$86/month and can cover 70–90% of eligible veterinary costs. Enroll before your puppy's first birthday for the best coverage options.