Chinese Crested Dog Breed Information

Group

Toy

Weight

2-5 kg

Height

23-30 cm

Lifespan

13-15 years

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About the Chinese Crested

Reviewed by:

Dr. Dilber Hussain

Veterinarian

Chinese Cresteds are a lively and loving dog breed. As purebred dogs, they’re highly sought after and can often be seen next to celebrities. Although they might often win the award for “ugliest dog” (the hairless variety, at least) there’s something adorable and charming about Cresteds too.

One of the most loyal and affectionate toy breeds, this pup loves its owner more than anything else in the world. Whether you’re a singleton looking for a canine companion or you want to find the perfect family dog, this could be the breed for you.

Our guide tells you everything you need to know about looking after Chinese Cresteds and what to expect from this toy dog.

What is the history & origin of the Chinese Crested?

Despite their name, there’s no evidence that the Chinese Crested originated in China. It’s more likely that they evolved from hairless South American dogs due to the similarities that can be seen between them and the Chinese Crested dog breed.

It’s said that this breed accompanied Chinese sailors on the sea as early as 1530, and helped them with hunting vermin on board ships during the plague. They were viewed as having magical healing powers and were kept by emperors and royalty across the world.

The Chinese Crested dog breed has had many names over the years, including Chinese Hairless, the Chinese Edible Dog, the Chinese Ship Dog, and the Chinese Royal Hairless.

What is a Chinese Crested Breed?

This small and friendly dog comes in two distinct varieties. In the same litter, you can find a hairless or powderpuff puppy. The hairless Chinese Crested features tufts of hair on its head (called a crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks), while the powder puff Crested is completely covered with hair.

This difference is caused by a single dominant gene (the ‘hairless’ gene) which results in hairlessness.

The texture of a Chinese Crested’s hair is soft and silky, and it can grow to almost any length. The powder puff variety is covered from head to toe.

Despite their unconventional appearance, these dogs make great pets. One of the best things about them is that they’re much lazier than other dogs, making them a great companion for city-dwellers or the elderly, who don’t have the time or space to let their dog run around.

Who is a Chinese Crested Best For?

The calm nature of these dogs makes them ideal companion dogs for anyone, but particularly elderly people who can’t take the dog out for walks all the time. They can also make a great family dog. Although wary of strangers, when a Crested gets to know you and settles in with your family, it’ll be showering you with love nonstop.

Chinese Crested Grooming & Shedding

Don’t be fooled by hairless breeds! This variety, like most hairless dogs, can still have a lot of body hair, which can present an issue for allergy sufferers. Although they don’t shed as much as other breeds, you’ll still be surprised by how much hair they still lose!

It’s important to keep the body hair shaved to ensure the skin stays healthy. Failing to do so can lead to a variety of skin problems for the dog, such as the doggy equivalent of acne. Never use sunscreen or moisturiser on the dog, even though you might think its skin needs protecting. It should remain natural, and you only need to bathe the dog frequently with a quality product.

Powderpuff Cresteds are much more of a challenge than hairless breeds. The beautiful silky coat features an undercoat and long thin guard hairs which are likely to mat if it doesn’t undergo frequent grooming. You should brush your dog weekly to get rid of excess body hair, apart from when it is still a puppy.

They also require frequent bathing to maintain healthy skin, although this doesn’t need to be done as often as with a hairless one.

With this breed, it’s very important to pay attention to their dental health. Hairless individuals tend to lose teeth quite early on in life, so it’s important to brush regularly to remove any tartar buildup and prevent gum disease.

Do Chinese Cresteds bark a lot?

Due to their extremely social nature, the Chinese Crested dog breed is susceptible to separation anxiety. This can cause them to bark and whine when left alone, and can also lead to destructive habits. It’s something to be aware of if you or somebody else isn’t going to be around with the dog for the majority of the time.

What is the average weight & height of a Chinese Crested dog?

These are small and light dogs. An adult dog will typically weigh between 2 to 5 kilos for both females and males. They will grow to between 23 and 30 cm in height.

Are Chinese Cresteds easy to train?

This is one of the easier dog breeds to train. However, Cresteds can have a stubborn streak so it’s important to be patient when you’re training them. Use positive reinforcement and correct them sensitively because they’re typically very shy.

You should also socialise with them early on so they get used to being around people and other animals.

Crate training is another method to consider to ensure your pup doesn’t have any accidents around the hour or destroy something it shouldn’t. You mustn’t leave your dog inside the crate for too long, apart from when sleeping.

How do Chinese Cresteds behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Generally, a Crested makes a lively and loving dog. They’re very social animals, so they love spending time with their owners. Sometimes a bit too much, which can lead to them experiencing separation anxiety when left alone.

However, that’s all made up for by the fact that they’ll spend all evening sitting on your lap and keeping you warm. The hairless model actually releases extra warmth through its skin – which is a bonus!

Once a Crested falls in love with you, it’ll be smitten for life. It’s an obedient, attentive, and devoted dog that’ll do its very best to protect the pack despite its small size.

This toy breed isn’t as energetic as other dog breeds. If you want a dog that’s lower maintenance when it comes to exercise, it could be a good option. Although they’ll still need regular walks, they don’t like to run around and play dog sports as much as other breeds. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be athletic when they want to.

Does the Chinese Crested have any common health issues?

Cresteds are generally healthy dogs, but like any other breed, they can be prone to genetic and other health issues.

When buying a puppy, be sure to look for a reputable breeder that can provide you with health clearances for both pet parents. Browse different breeders in your area and look to a national breed club for any advice you might need.

Cresteds can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, Willebrand’s disease, and various eye problem. It’s important to look for clearances for all of these conditions.

Unfortunately, this breed is also prone to experiencing dental issues, which is why so many of them have missing teeth. This is particularly common in the hairless variety. Be sure to keep an eye on its oral health and take it to a professional if you start noticing changes to its eating habits or if your dog is in pain.

What is the lifespan of a Chinese Crested?

These dogs generally live between 13-15 years. Once your Crested gets to know you, he’ll be a loyal life companion.

How much does a Chinese Crested need to be fed?

As they’re such small dogs, they don’t require as much food daily as medium and larger breeds do. It’s recommended to feed your Crested 1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food per day. This should be divided into two meals to sustain him throughout the day.

How much can you expect to pay for a Chinese Crested in Australia?

It all depends on the pedigree of the dog and the breeder, but they can range in price from as low as $600 to as high as $3500.

Chinese Crested FAQs

Why do some Chinese Crested dogs have hair?

It’s all down to genetics. Powderpuff Cresteds carry a recessive gene which means they have a silky coat covering their body. Both types can be found in the same Chinese crested litter.

How do you bathe a Chinese Crested dog?

Bathe your Crested at least once a week as they’re more susceptible to skin conditions than other dog breeds. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner that won’t irritate the skin.

Do Chinese Crested dogs get fleas?

It’s easy to prevent fleas on the hairless variety because they don’t have fur. It’s easier for the fleas to hide in the long fur of the powderpuff variety, which is why it’s important to check them regularly and administer medication when necessary.