Is This the Right Breed for You?
✔ Excellent Match For
- Allergy sufferers who want a low-shedding companion (hairless variety)
- Owners who appreciate a unique, affectionate, and gentle lap dog
- Homes seeking a low-energy companion that thrives on human attention
✖ Consider Carefully If
- You live in a cold climate (hairless variety needs protection from the elements)
- You're not prepared for special skin care (hairless variety requires moisturizing and sun protection)
- You want an independent dog (they crave constant human companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety)
Owner Suitability
The Chinese Crested is a loving, unique companion that brings affection and entertainment to the right home. While their distinctive appearance and low-shedding coat appeal to many, they require dedicated skin care and protection from the elements. Success depends on understanding their need for human companionship and commitment to their special care requirements.Stats:
- Height: 11-13 inches
- Weight: 8-12 pounds
- Coat: Hairless or Powderpuff (soft double coat)
- Colors: Any color or combination
- Lifespan: 13-18 years
Origin & History
The Chinese Crested is an ancient breed with origins that may date back to the 13th century. Despite its name, its exact origins are unclear, though it likely descended from African hairless dogs brought to China by traders. These unique dogs were prized by Chinese sailors who kept them on ships as ratters and companions, often trading them in ports around the world.
Today, Chinese Cresteds are primarily companion animals, valued for their distinctive appearance, loving personality, and low-shedding qualities. They remain one of the most unusual and recognizable breeds, adored by their owners for their playful, affectionate nature and devoted companionship.
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: Moderate; enjoys playtime but not overly active | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Intelligent but can be stubborn; responds to positive methods | ✓ | ||||
| Shedding: Low; hairless variety sheds very little, powderpuff has a full coat | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: Hairless: skin care needed; Powderpuff: regular brushing | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Excellent companion; gentle and affectionate | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Good; will alert bark but not protective | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Good for attentive owners | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: Low; minimal chasing instincts | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Moderate; may bark when excited | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Okay if properly socialized; some can be shy or timid | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
- Dental Issues: Hairless variety often has missing teeth
- Skin Problems: Sunburn, acne, and dryness in hairless variety
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: Degeneration of the hip joint
- Eye Problems: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Patellar Luxation: Slipping kneecaps
- Allergies: Skin allergies can occur
Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.