With such distinct looks and a personality that says, ‘look at me!’, Chinese Crested Dogs make for affectionate and sociable housemates. Just as long as their attention and exercise quotas are filled!
Personality and temperament
No one told this tiny pooch that they are in fact a toy breed. Their big personalities can fill a room in minutes, and they love being the centre of anyone (and everyone’s) attention. Self-assured, sensitive and deeply bonded with their human, Chinese Crested Dogs are very intuitive and have been known to pick up early on illness in their humans. They’re friendly pups but may be shy at first with strangers and other animals. Older kids might be a better option for these little fellows as they can get hurt easily with rough play.
Size and appearance
Small, tiny and little! Chinese Crested Dogs only weight about 6kg or less and reach the dizzying heights of 33cm. Perfect handbag or backpack size! This toy breed comes in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. The Hairless variety have smooth skin with comical tuffs of hair on their tail, ankles and head. They may be a good option for those with allergies. Powderpuffs have a full coat of soft, silky hair. Both varieties have fine-boned frames and tend to be graceful in their movements, though throughout its history the Hairless variety has caused more of a sensation. It was even once on display at London Zoo!
History
It’s thought the Chinese Crested Dog is related to the ancient hairless dogs of African (and possibly Mexico) who were sold to Chinese traders throughout antiquity. After many years of breeding in mainland China, they became smaller in stature to help sailors control their vermin populations – hence the nickname ‘Chinese Ship Dogs’. They appeared in the noble homes of Europe and America and were considered an exotic lap dog – a role they thoroughly enjoy. It wasn’t until the 1970s that Chinese Crested Dogs arrived on our shores, and even today they’re seen as a rare and fascinating breed that’s gaining in popularity.
Health conditions that can affect this breed
These happy little dogs are generally pretty healthy, however they can be prone to some common conditions, including:
- Dental disease
- Skin problems, including sunburn in hairless dogs
- Patellar luxation (dislocating kneecap)
- Inherited eye diseases, including progressive vision loss
- Allergies
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (hip joint degeneration)
Regular vet check-ups and care can help manage these conditions and keep your Chinese Crested Dog healthy.
Food and exercise
Being a toy breed, it’s essential a Chinese Crested Dog’s diet is packed full of nutrients and is easily digested. Food specially formulated for toy breeds is best as some can be picky eaters.
Even though Chinese Crested Dogs are excellent lap warmers, they do like to stretch their legs and exercise up to 40 minutes a day. Things like short walks, low-impact indoor play, training sessions and mentally challenging games will keep their muscles lean.
Grooming and maintenance
The grooming needs of these two varieties vary, with the Hairless Chinese Crested Dog needing moisturising daily, and the Powderpuff needing regular brushing to avoid matting. The Hairless variety can also sunburn very easily, so sun protection (and a jacket) is recommended.
- Bathe: every 1-2 weeks (Hairless), every 4-6 weeks (Powderpuff)
- Professional groom: occasionally (Hairless), every 6-8 weeks (Powderpuff)
How to groom your Chinese Crested Dog
- Fur: moisturise skin daily and exfoliate weekly (Hairless), brush 2-3 times a week (Powderpuff)
- Nails: trim every 2-4 weeks
- Ears: clean weekly
- Eyes: wipe gently to prevent tear staining
Training and space requirements
Along with being intelligent and eager to please, Chinese Crested Dogs are also sensitive little souls. Short training sessions with bucketloads of positive reinforcement (and treats) tend to work best.
Chinese Crested Dogs are highly adaptable and can live in all types of homes, from small apartments to draughty 17th century castles. They tend to prefer being indoors with their humans anyway as both varieties are affected by the cold, while the Hairless variety is no match for high UV.
Best suited for…
As a result of centuries of breeding, Chinese Crested Dogs are elegant, affectionate, and full of heart. This toy breed make sensitive, intuitive housemates for calm humans with (or without) older kids, seniors and anyone who doesn’t want too much fur on their couch.
