All About Chinese Crested Training
What’s that elegant and graceful-looking dog with fur only on its extremities? It’s the rare chinese crested. Believed to have originated in Africa, the Aztecs kept them as bedwarmers. They were first brought to China aboard trading ships because they were naturally such good ratters. They first came to the West in the late 1800s. Your chinese crested training will start, not with respect to the dogs, but with respect to you and your family members. These fine-boned dogs are fragile and require careful handling and supervision. They crave human companionship and can experience separation anxiety, so they would not be a good fit for families who work outside the home.
They are good with other pets and are not barkers. These playful and entertaining dogs are exceptionally loving, making them a good fit with families who have older children. They stand from 11 to 13 inches, and weigh between 10 and 13 pounds. This toy-sized dog has a life expectancy of only 10 to 12 years. Your chinese crested training should start early by socializing them as puppies and exposing them to loud noises. This will help to prevent them from being timid. And even though they are sweet and cuddly, do not baby them. This way they a better chance to become well adjusted and to not develop unwanted behaviors. If they growl, guard objects, snap or bite, your dog has become the pack leader. Proper human leadership will correct this problem. And since they love to dig, do not assume that this is a sign of destructive behavior.
They will become very attached to their owners and enjoy continual companionship. Because they need human leadership and are so alert and intelligent, continue your chinese crested training by teaching them tricks. And since they love to climb, they will naturally do well in that portion of agility training. Obedience training is also recommended, as well as respect training.
Do not overfeed them as they can become obese. The positive reinforcement for your chinese crested training may need to be affection instead of treats. They are active and playful indoors and are suitable for apartment living. But do not assume that since they are small they can be confined in a small space. And, although it is tempting, do not carry them, as they will need a daily walk. Without daily exercise, a wide variety of behavioral problems can develop. They will also enjoy playing outside in a safe open area off of their leash.
