In this post we’re going to take a closer look at grooming hairless dogs: tips for bathing and drying, brushing,  paw care and so on…. But first, let’s talk a little bit about these type of dogs.

What Is The Coat Like?

• There is a very small group of dogs that are not coated at all, except sometimes for small amounts of hair on top of the head and on the ears, feet and tail.
• The skin will need regular attention to keep it in optimum condition.
• These dogs are very susceptible to weather conditions. The skin will need the protection of sunscreen in summer to prevent sunburn. In winter, coats are required to maintain body warmth.
• Skin maintenance includes regular oiling, but in some dogs this may lead to eruptions of blackheads. Only oil after bathing when the skin is dirt-free.
• Dental care is especially important with Chinese Cresteds as they have a tendency to lose teeth quite easily.

Bathing & Drying

Frequency

• Bathe ideally once a week to once every four weeks.

Pre-Bath

• Put a cotton ball gently in each ear to prevent water from getting into the ear canal.

Bathing

• Use a gentle shampoo to cleanse the body, which can be prone to blackheads, and a tearless shampoo for the head. Only one application needed.
• Rinse off with clean water.

Drying

• Towel dry all over.
• Finish off with a hand dryer set to warm on the furnishings.

Body Checks

1. Ears: Monitor ears for wax and dirt, and clean inside folds.
2. Eyes: Clean sticky deposits out of eyes, wiping away from the eye towards the nose.
3. Teeth: Check teeth and gums – these teeth need descaling.
4. Feet: Check nails, condition of pads and hair growth on paws.

Paw Care

1. The hair between these pads is overgrown. If left, mats will develop and can cause soreness.
2. Carefully trim away excess growth around and between the claws with round-ended scissors.
3. The trimmed paw looks tidier.
4. Clip long nails. With white nails, it’s easy to see the quick.

Brushing

1. Brush the hair on the head with a pin brush to ensure that it is free of tangles.
2. Follow up with a wide toothed comb. Comb carefully, going with the natural flow of the hair.
3. Apply a little anti-static spray to the tail, then brush it gently with a pin brush.
4. Similarly, use a slicker brush and then comb to tidy hair around the feet.
5. If the skin needs moisturizing, massage a little baby oil into the body and legs.
6. This routine takes just a few minutes.