Items for Training and General Care
A braided nylon collar and lead. Resco is a good quality, affordable
brand. The narrow width is ideal for small dogs and it is also very sturdy. 48 inch length is fine. Flex or retractable leads
are not recommended for small dogs. These are dangerous and usually too heavy.
Nylon slip collars are best for Cresteds because they have narrow heads
and can slip out of buckle collars. Choke style collars are much safer. It is also easy to slip on and off the dog and they
provide excellent control during training. As long as the collar is put on properly there is NO RISK of choking the dog. For
a puppy 10-12 inches is usually the right size but collars should always be fitted prior to purchase.
A barrier gate
Before bringing your puppy home, have a method ready to keep it confined
to an area of your home that is safe and can be watched easily. Crested puppies are adept at climbing over barriers or squeezing
between bars. Test this thoroughly before leaving the pup alone.
Small dishes for food and water
Non tip stainless steel dishes are preferable but ceramic dishes are
also fine as long as they are dishwasher safe and NOT made in China. Decorative coatings should not
contain lead based paint. Plastic dishes are not recommended because puppies often chew them. Once chewed, they are impossible
to clean thoroughly.
For paper training, you can use regular newspaper or puppy housetraining
pads.
Toys and Chews
Avoid edible dog bones like greenies. These are unsafe for Cresteds-
or any small breed. Dogs can and do choke trying to swallow large pieces.
Small stuffed toys are fine as long as they are sturdy and there are
no parts that can be easily chewed or pulled off.
Large rawhides, dog biscuits and cow hoof chews are also safe for Cresteds
Do not purchase any chews or toys made in China. These may be treated with formaldehyde or constructed from unsafe materials.