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Breed Characteristics
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Chinese Crested
| Other Names | Crested, Puff, Chinese Crested Dog, Hairless, Powderpuff |
| Country of Origin | China, Africa |
| Weight | Not over 12 lbs. (5.5 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | Males: 11 - 13 in. (28 - 33 cm) Females: 9 - 12 in. (23 - 30 cm) |
| Coat | There are two distinct varieties of the Chinese Crested Dog, the "hairless" and the "powderpuff." The hairless variety is just that: hairless, except for its feet, head and tail. The "powderpuff" has a long, soft coat. Some breeders to this day "bucket," as they call it, the powderpuffs when they are born, simply because they claim they are not worth much. When a breeder "buckets" a puppy it means they drop it in a bucket of water when it is first born and let it die. The powderpuff variety is a beautiful dog with a full coat of fur and many people do not realize they exist because a lot of websites only show the hairless variety. Both varieties are equally recognized by the major kennel clubs. |
| Colour | The skin and coat can be any colour, and solid, mixed or spotted all over. Both hairless and powderpuff varieties can be born in the same litter. |
| Litter Size | 2 - 4 puppies |
| Life Span | 12– 14 years. Although many have been known to live much longer |
| Origin & History | Unlike the what the name would indicate, the Chinese Crested Dog is believed to have originated from the African hairless dog breed. It was then discovered by Chinese sailors and merchants traveling to African ports and used on their ships as ratters. When the breed was brought back to China they were bred smaller and with a greater emphasis on temperament, then redistributed in trading ventures as the "Chinese Hairless" or "Chinese Crested". Another theory is that the Chinese Crested Dog actually developed with the Aztecs by breeding the Mexican Hairless with the Chihuahua. It is believed that the Aztecs actually used these dogs as companion dogs but also as bed warmers in the cold months. These dogs may have also been used for human consumption at special events in the Aztec calendar. Regardless of the exact lineage the Chinese Crested Dog is certainly a unique and different type of dog that has attracted a specific type of dog lover throughout its history. In the 1800's the breed became known in Europe and North America, specifically the United States. It did not become a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club until 1991 but is steadily increasing in popularity among rare dog breed fanciers. |
| Personality | The most popular of the hairless breeds, the Chinese Crested is still very rare. These dogs are alert, charming, agile and lovable. Though affectionate and playful with children, children should be taught not to be rough with this breed as it is friendly, but it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily. It is an entertaining and amusing companion. Do not baby this breed or you might cause it to be timid. Socialize your dog well, starting when it is a small puppy, exposing it to loud noises and outside activity. This intelligent dog has the ability to perform tricks. They are generally good with other pets. They are not barkers. Chinese Crested Dogs like to climb and dig holes. They tend to become very attached to their owners. These dogs enjoy companionship and need constant human leadership. Do not let this wonderful breed fall into "Small Dog Syndrome" where they lack a human pack leader. It is easy to baby a small dog, however, doing this can cause many unwanted behaviors. If your dog growls, guards objects, snaps or bites, the dog has been allowed to take over and be pack leader to the humans. These behaviors can be corrected as soon as the humans start displaying the proper leadership. |
Care Requirements
| Health | Gains weight easily; do not overfeed. Exposed skin on the hairless dogs needs special care to prevent skin irritations. The hairless dogs do get sunburn and a good sunscreen should be used if the dog is going to be out in the sun. The hairless variety is prone to tooth loss and decay. Powderpuffs have healthier teeth. The hairless variety has the ancient forward-pointing canine teeth or "tusks" as they are called, but usually these are the first teeth to fall out. A high percentage of Chinese Cresteds are allergic to wool and lanolin. Both the hairless and powderpuff dogs are born in the same litter. Each hairless dog carries one gene for hairless and one gene for hair. Two hairless genes are fatal. |
| Grooming | Chinese Cresteds are very clean, with no doggie odor. Powderpuffs need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing of the powderpuff's long, fine, double coat is recommended, taking extra care when the dog is shedding. The woolly undercoat becomes matted if neglected. Bathe the hairless frequently and massage a little oil or cream into the skin to keep it supple. These dogs shed little to no hair and are great for allergy sufferers. The hairless variety is not prone to fleas. They can get ticks just like humans, but they are easy to see. |
| Exercise | Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about, these are active little dogs that need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off-lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. Don't think that just because he is small he should be confined to a small space. |
| Other Considerations | Good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. They should wear a sweater in cold weather. In popular culture; One famous Chinese crested dog was the hairless purebred named Sam. He was the winner of the World's Ugliest Dog Contest from 2003 to 2005; he died before he could compete in 2006. Other Chinese cresteds, either purebreds or mixes, have finished high in the event as well. Some Chinese crested dog have also appeared as a characters in movies and TV shows such as, Peek from Cats & Dogs and Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore Fluffy from 102 Dalmatians Romeo from Hotel for Dogs Giuseppe from Marmaduke Halston from Ugly Betty Reinaldo from New York Minute Krull (the warrior king) from How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days Lackey from Good Boy! Bobby from The Young and the Restless |
