If you have a Chinese Crested, then you will know that combing and brushing is an important part of their overall grooming routine. This is true for both the hairless and powderpuff type. So it’s important to know how to properly brush and comb their fur. This includes knowing exactly which tools should be used and in which order for a more appropriate technique.
Why Brushing and Combing Your Chinese Crested Is Important
Regular brushing and combing of your pupper is vital for maintaining their coat’s health. If not
groomed adequately, it can lead to a host of problems, including: matting, skin irritation, and
even infection.
By regularly brushing and combing your doggie, you can prevent painful tangling and matting.
Brushing also helps to distribute your dog’s natural oils throughout their coat, keeping their skin
and fur healthy. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any skin irritations,
bumps, or lumps that may require veterinary attention. By catching these issues early, you can
ensure that your chinese crested receives prompt and appropriate care by a specialist if needed.
Another important aspect that may be overlooked, is that regular grooming also provides an
opportunity for bonding between your pupper and you. Take that time to cultivate a trusting and
special bond between the two of you. This will not only bring you closer to your pooch, but allow
them to complete the necessary grooming process in a safe and loving way. This will create
positive lasting effects, especially when they then transition to regular veterinary appointments.
Brushing also helps to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair, which can reduce shedding. This also
helps to reduce the amount of loose hair and pet dander within your home; thus reducing the
increased risk of exposure for allergy sufferers.
Your brushing and combing routine will differ depending on what type you have; whether
hairless or powderpuff. It is recommended to brush your doggie at least once a week for
hairless and several times a week for powderpuff.
What You’ll Need
Before you start brushing and combing your chinese crested, make sure you have the following:
- Brush Types
- A bristle brush and/or pin brush
- Comb Types
- A wide-tooth metal comb
- Other Tools
- A razor
- A mat table or high surface
- A detangling spray
- A treat to reward for good behavior
Preparing to Brush and Comb Your Chinese Crested
It is important to start the grooming process as early as possible. For pupper up to 4 months of
age, you should brush several days a week with a metal pin brush in order to begin to establish
a grooming routine.
After 4 months of age, you can introduce a comb after brushing. Make sure to comb to the skin.
It should be able to comb smoothly through the coat. As your puppy reaches adulthood, an
increase in brushing is necessary.
Always make sure to remain patient and gentle when completing. Place the puppy on an
elevated surface with a non-slip mat such as a dog grooming table in order to complete the
grooming routine (brushing, combing, teeth, and nails). Get them comfortable lying on their side
and standing while on the higher surface. Just make sure you grab all the necessary equipment
required prior to placing your pup up high, and if you have forgotten something then lower them
back down to the floor so as you’re making sure not to leave them on a high surface
unattended.
Bringing them to a higher work surface will not only signal to your pup that ‘now it’s time for the
grooming routine,’ but will also save your back. It will allow you to have proper body mechanics,
which will become especially important as they become bigger and stronger. Also, please make
sure to incorporate praise and treats prior to and after completing the grooming routine. This will
not only help solidify the bonding experience, but will signal to your pupper that the grooming
process is a safe and loving space for them.
How to Brush Your Chinese Crested: HAIRLESS
- You should start by removing all mats, dirt, debris, and loose hair from their coat. Attempt to use your fingers firstly, by gently pulling apart small sections at a time and working your way from outermost mat sections and moving closer to the skin. You can use your comb to assist, trying to work the tangle out delicately and in small sections at a time. And a detangling spray is always a good option in order to ease the tangles out more freely.
- Depending on how ‘hairy’ your hairless may be, you can use a razor for the facial hair in
order to remove unnecessary hairs. - Brushing isn’t necessary for this chinese crested hairless type. A good option, though,
would be a soft-bristled bristle brush to brush the head crest, socks, and tail plume. This will
help to remove dirt and debris from the coat. Remember to brush in the direction of the hair
growth.
How to Comb Your Chinese Crested: HAIRLESS
- Combing is a must. This will help to remove matting and tangles. Use a wide-tooth metal
comb. Start at the head, working your way towards the tail. Be sure to comb in the direction of
the hair growth. - Make sure to comb areas of the head crest, socks, and tail plume. Pay special attention
to areas where the skin is thin, such as the belly and legs. - You can use a damp cloth to wipe the skin and remove any excess dirt and debris.
Finishing Touches
- The hairless will be much more susceptible to skin irritations, rashes, and dryness. A
good moisturizing cream is a must and should be applied every other day in order to help
prevent dry skin. And a good sunscreen should also be applied in order to prevent sunburning.
How to Brush Your Chinese Crested: POWDERPUFF
- You should start by removing all mats, dirt, debris, and loose hair from their coat.
Attempt to use your fingers firstly, by gently pulling apart small sections at a time and working
your way from outermost mat sections and moving closer to the skin. You can use your comb to
assist, trying to work the tangle out delicately and in small sections at a time. And a detangling
spray is always a good option in order to ease the tangles out more freely. - The powderpuff has a double-coat; a long, silky topcoat and a short undercoat. Make
sure when brushing to penetrate both coats. - Never brush their coat while it’s dry. This will cause irritation and breakage. Use a
misting or detangling spray to wet the coat before attempting to brush. - Use bristle or pin brush. This will help to remove matting and tangles. Pay extra attention
to the inside of the elbows and intersection where front legs meet the body, as these areas are
prone to matting. - Brush the coat in layers, in the direction of hair growth. When brushing the feet, make
sure to check between the pads of the feet for matting; where this area is more likely.
How to Comb Your Chinese Crested: POWDERPUFF
- Combing is a must. This will help to remove matting and tangles. Use a wide-tooth metal
comb. Start at the head, working your way towards the tail. Be sure to comb in the direction of
the hair growth. helps to remove tangles and mats, and distribute oils throughout their coat. - Pay special attention to areas where the hair is longer, such as the ears and tail.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris.
Tips for Maintaining Your Chinese Crested’s Coat
To keep your pupper’s coat healthy, you should brush and comb it regularly. Here are some tips:
- Brush the hairless at least once a week
- Brush the powderpuff several times a week
- Make sure to apply moisturizing cream and sunscreen every other day to the hairless
type. - Never brush dry hair, it should always be wet prior to brushing.
- Use a pin brush to remove tangles and mats.
- Use a comb to remove loose hair and debris.
- Be gentle and avoid pulling or tugging on the coat.
- Pay special attention to areas that are prone to tangles, such as behind the ears and
tail. - If you encounter a mat, use your fingers first. A detangling spray and/or dematting tool or
scissors to carefully remove it are also options. - After brushing, use a damp cloth to wipe your doggie’s coat and remove any remaining
debris. - Always give a treat and praise for good behavior.
By following these tips, you can maintain your Chinese Crested’s coat and keep it looking
healthy and shiny.
As long as you are able to maintain regular brushing, shedding will be minimal.