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Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is an alert and spirited breed. The hairless variety is considered nearly hypoallergenic and would be a good pet for someone with allergies.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Chinese Crested
Physical Characteristics
- Small, fragile frame
- Wedge-shaped head, almond-shaped eyes and erect ears
- Two varieties - hairless and powder puff
- Hairless has solid or spotted skin with sparse hair on feet, tail and head
- Powder puff has long, lush hair coving the body, ears and tail
- Both can be any color
- Height: 11-13 inches
- Weight: 5-12 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-14 years
Temperament
- Affectionate, energetic, smart, aware, even-tempered, spirited, eager to please
- Interaction with people: Good with children
- Interaction with animals: Good with other pets
- Level of attention needed: Needs significant human interaction and affection
Medical Conditions
- Hairless variety prone to sunburn and other skin irritations
- Ophthalmic disorders (including progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma)
- Patellar luxation
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments; fine without a yard
- Not recommended for extreme climates
- Needs daily walks
Grooming
- Hairless sheds little to no hair; powder puff sheds seasonally
- Daily brushing recommended for the powder puff
- Regular bathing required for the hairless
- Powder puffs may experience matting during shedding season
Other Facts
- The combination of two hairless genes is fatal
- Famed exotic dancer Gypsy Rose Lee was an advocate and breeder of the Chinese Crested
- Once known as the "Chinese hairless," "Chinese edible dog," "Chinese ship dog" and the "Chinese royal hairless"
- The Aztecs used this breed as a bed warmer
Breed History
- Exact origin unknown; records from as early as 1500 reference the breed
- Legend has it Chinese sailors kept this dog aboard their ships and traded them at various ports around the world
- Thought to be a descendant of the African hairless dogs
- Ida Garrett and Debra Woods widely promoted this breed in the U.S. from the 1920s through the 1960s
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the American Chinese Crested Club For breed rescue opportunities, visit Crested Guardians
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FREE downloadable PDF files providing a comprehensive review of some of the most timely pet health topics: Allergies, Fleas, Summer Safety Hazards, and Vomiting and Diarrhea.
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