General Info
An ancient breed dating back to as early at the 1500's and widely believed to have originated in Africa. Said to have been used as ratters and bedwarmers on cargo ships. (unfounded accounts) A very mysterious history indeed. Still considered a rare breed.
- 2 Varieties- Hairless & Powderpuff
- Average life span- 10-13 yrs
- Height- 11-13", Weight- 10-12 lbs
- Considered to be a non-shedding and less allergenic breed
- Generally not barkers.
- Hairless tend to loose teeth or have incomplete dentition (recognized in breed standard)
- Hairless are susceptible to sunburn and hypothermia so care should be taken
- Both varieties require regular bathing with mild products and should avoid Lanolin & Wool (allergic)
- Powderpuff should be brushed daily to maintain matte free coat
- Hairless will require various degrees of grooming (excess body hair removal) as well as skin care with oil-free mosturizers
-Hairless are prone to blackheads but this can be prevented or controlled by regular bathing & skin care. Another trick to control a bad case of acne is to use Listerine (brown) mixed 50/50 with Witchhazel as an astringent applied with a spray bottle and rubbed into the skin! Safe to use incase they lick!
Temperment
Sweet, playful, lively, loving, intelligent, alert and entertaining!
Affectionate with children but should be handled with care as they are a delicate breed.
Health Concerns (associated with Cresteds)
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) / PRCD (Progressive Rod Cone Degeneration)
is a family of diseases involving the gradual deterioration of the retina causing blindness. This condition is hereditary and has no cure. First signs are the onset of "night-blindness". Genetic screening is available and recommended when considering breeding as is yearly CERF testing to screen for a wide range of eye conditions and diseases.
Patellar Luxation
is also known as Kneecap Luxation & Slipped Stifles. Caused by an abnormal pull on the kneecap by major leg muscles, "popping it out" of position which can cause pain in the latter stages of this condition. Xrays can confirm this diagnosis.
Legg-Calve Perthes (LCPD)
A disorder of the hip joint resulting from an interruption of the blood supply to the femoral head & ultimately causing the collapse or remodelling of the femoral head. This condition leads to stiffness & pain similar to Hip Dysplasia. X-rays are also used to confirm this diagnosis.
Deafness & Closed Ear Canal (CEC)
Deafness in this breed can be hereditary or a result of injury or illness. One of the more common causes of deafness in Cresteds is Closed Ear Canal. CEC is a condition where the opening of the ear is fused shut. Most commonly affects the hairless variety. Surgery can be attempted to open the ear canal but are usually unsuccessful. For all types of deafness BAER testing is strongly recommended.
BAER ( Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) is quick and painless procedure where electrodes are placed just under the skin of the scalp (one in front of each ear,one on top of the head, & one behind the eyes). Electomagnetic responses of the brain evoked by auditory stimulus are recorded.
