Chinese Crested

Delicate, gentle, and fun-loving, the Chinese Crested is a beautiful dog known for its sleek and graceful shape. It comes in two types: the Powderpuff, featuring a fluffy double coat, and the Hairless, which has soft, smooth skin but sports hair on its crest, tail, paws, and lower legs.

Quick Info

Size
Small
Colours
Any color
Lifespan
13 to 18 years
Height
11 to 13 inches
Type
Toy
Hypoallergenic
yes
Weight
8 to 12 pounds
Family
Primitive

Personality

The Chinese Crested is a loving and playful dog that is both emotionally and physically sensitive. They get along well with other dogs, people, pets, and most kids. However, younger children who are more unpredictable can be a bit overwhelming for these gentle dogs.

History

The Chinese Crested breed began in Africa and was introduced to China in the 1300s by sailors who used them on their ships to hunt rats and for trade. This led to the dogs spreading to places like Turkey, Egypt, South Africa, and even Central and South America. By the 1800s, they were noted in Europe, and by the end of that century, an American named Ida Garrett became fond of them and helped make the breed well-known.

Ideal Owner

The Chinese Crested breed started in Africa and made its way to China in the 13th century. Chinese sailors brought these dogs on their ships to help with trading and to catch rats. As a result, the dogs spread to places like Turkey, Egypt, South Africa, and even Central and South America. By the 1800s, they were noted in Europe, and by the end of that century, an American named Ida Garrett became fond of them and helped make the breed well-known.

Exercise Needs

Having some background in training small dog breeds is beneficial, as these pets are smart and active. Depending on the type of dog, owners should focus on grooming and skin care.

Space Requirements

Chinese Cresteds enjoy spending time outside, but they really dislike cold weather. The hairless ones will require a sweater for walks in chilly areas. Since they are small, they can get enough exercise indoors with a few bursts of energy and some activities to keep their minds engaged.

Training

A Chinese Crested with a long coat requires brushing once or twice each week. On the other hand, the hairless type needs regular grooming for its tail, socks, and crest. Their bare skin, much like that of a delicate newborn, should be kept moisturized when it gets dry and shielded from sunlight. Additionally, the hairless breed often has dental issues, and it’s not unusual for them to have missing teeth.

Grooming

For the Chinese Crested, having a cozy place to snuggle is more valuable than having a large area to roam. As long as they can go outside for bathroom breaks and walks, they will be content.

Suitability for Family Life

Though they are small, Chinese Cresteds are very smart and eager to learn. They respond well to encouragement and enjoy activities like games, puzzles, and learning tricks.

Did You know?

Chinese Cresteds played a role in stopping the plague from spreading. They would catch rats on boats, and their hairless skin made them less prone to fleas compared to other breeds. Gypsy Rose Lee was a fan of Chinese Cresteds and contributed to their popularity. These dogs have sweat glands, allowing them to cool off without needing to pant.

Similar Breeds

Papillon
Pekingese
Peruvian Inca Orchid

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Basic training required
Need to be aware of potential health issues
Enjoys active walks
Small dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day
Chatty and vocal dog