Grooming; Chinese Crested

[psbennett]

I was told my Chinese Crested would grow out of his black heads around the age of 5. Well, he is neutered, over 6 years old and we are still struggling with black heads. Any suggestions?

[KOPcaroline]

Hi psbennett,

I'm assumming when you say black heads your referring to "puppy acne"? Where on your dogs body is it? Face, chin, belly?

Have you talked to your vet about the possibility of a food or environmental allergy, instead of it being black heads? They could also potentially recommend medical shampoos to try on your pup to help clear things up. I would say taking your crested in for a visit would be the best bet, a vet will be able to tell you for sure whats causing the problem.

[psbennett]

I've had my Chinese Crested for over five years. When we first got him, the vet put him on antibiotics until he had diahrea (almost a week later) and that was the last my vet mentioned the black heads. I have asked the vet about what food to give him, how often to bathe him, etc., but my vet is not familiar with Chinese Crested dogs.
Presently, I have him on California Natural Lamb & Rice because it doesn't have much fat in it.
We have tried all different methods of 'cleaning' my Crested. At first I used a combination of listerine & witchhazel, now I just use witchhazel. I wash him about once a month and put lotion on him right afterwards.
Do you have any suggestions as to what I can change or add to his routine to help clear up his skin?
Thanks.

[kjd]

Hi psbennett,

Since your vet doesn't know anything about your breed, why not get in contact with other Chinese Crested owners? The US national breed club has a site at Offical Site of the ACCC. They may be able to help you.

If nothing else, you can get the name of a breeder near you and contact them. Generally, breeders are happy to help you with problems.

kjd

[KOPcaroline]

Have you tried exfoliating (GENTLY!) your CC's skin? A sugar soap/rub might help clear out the pores a bit, and is safe for dogs' skin. You can even make your own at home.

If you use lotions on his skin, make sure they are non-clogging formulations, and for sensitive skin! Avoid anything with strong fragrances, though. Baby shampoos and lotions usually work really well for dogs.

I hope you find some CC expert answers somewhere, surely a breeder in your area will have awesome advice!

[psbennett]

Thanks for all the great advice.
I plan to look into the official site of the ACCC and find a local breeder that can guide me a bit to get rid of his blackheads. Plus I will definitely try the sugar exfoliating. I think he would like that!
I naturally stay away from fragrances, colors, etc. when I buy shampoos & lotions, so that won't be a problem.

~ Patty