Let's talk Chinese Crested Dogs
Whether it’s the Hairless or Powderpuff version, the decidedly distinctive Chinese Crested Dog, prized for centuries by Chinese royalty, does anything but fade into the background. This graceful, slender breed packs playfulness, deep affection, and oodles of character into one small package. Though agile and athletic, the Chinese Crested Dog is ideally suited for indoor life where they can curl up on their owner’s lap. If you’re looking for a fellow sofa spud, the Chinese Crested Dog may be the breed for you.Official name: Chinese Crested Dog
Origins: China
| Drooling tendencies |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level |  |
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | Low | Family pet? * |
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| Compatibility with other pets |  |
Can stay alone? * |  |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 10 months |
| Adult age: | 10 months to 8 years |
| Mature age: | 8 to 12 years |
| Senior age: | 12 to 15 years |
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Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
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2 facts about Chinese Crested Dogs
1. Genes: a hairy matter …
Chinese Crested Dogs come in both Hairless and Powderpuff versions but, aside from their follicular differences, they’re exactly the same breed. Despite this, the Powderpuff’s silky, full-body coat is in fact a recessive trait. So, what does that mean? You can have both Hairless and Powderpuff puppies in the same litter!
2. The “It” dog
Is it their one-of-a-kind looks? Their life of the party personalities? Whatever the “it” may be, the Chinese Crested have long garnered celebrity attention. The breed has enjoyed roles on the big and small screen for decades. The famous burlesque performer Gypsy Rose Lee was a renowned Chinese Crested breeder who created one of the first American kennels devoted to the breed.
History of the breed
Though their precise origins are unclear, the Chinese Crested Dog is thought to be a descendant of ancient hairless African dogs that were brought to China, where their presence can be traced back to the 13th century. There, Chinese Crested dogs became the preferred companions of Han Dynasty families who used them as treasure guardians, hunting companions, and even living heating pads, thanks to their naturally warm skin.
Prized for their keen ratting skills aboard seafaring vessels, the Chinese Crested breed was also a favourite of Chinese sailors who traded them in ports all over the globe, giving rise to variations of the breed in countries all over the globe.
The Chinese Crested Dog reappeared in European records, paintings and photographs in the 19th century. However, their big debut on the Western stage came in the 1880’s when American journalist Ida Garrett and breeder Debra Woods took a fancy to the Chinese Crested, widely promoting them through writing, speaking, and breeding programs. The Chinese Crested has since enjoyed burgeoning popularity and was officially recognised by the AKC in 1991.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Chinese Crested dogs
1. Head
Head is smooth with minimal wrinkling and dark, alert eyes.
2. Ears
Ears are low-set, large and erect with or without fringe.
3. Body
Body is long to medium-long and supple.
4. Coat
Coat: long, tapered crest, plume and socks for Hairless, long, full coat for Powderpuff.
5. Tail
Long, tapered tail falling naturally at rest, carried up or out when moving.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Chinese Crested Dog
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Caring for your Chinese Crested Dog
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Though not heavy shedders, the Chinese Crested Dog – both Powderpuff and Hairless – do require consistent grooming. The Hairless can experience minor skin irritations, allergies, and sunburn, so make sure to ask your vet which products are best suited for your pooch. The Powderpuff’s long double coat should be brushed weekly, preferably with a pin or bristle brush, to avoid matting. While fairly easy to train, the highly sensitive Chinese Crested Dog learns best with a gentle, patient trainer. A top performer in competitive sports, the Chinese Crested Dog excels when given positive reinforcement. While naturally athletic, they don’t have high exercise requirements. The breed does well with a short daily walk and supervised off-the-lead play in a safe enclosure.
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All about Chinese Crested Dog
Because the Chinese Crested thrives on attention and is highly social, they can experience separation anxiety and resort to barking when left on their own for extended periods of time. The Crested can also “alarm bark”, but training and early socialisation can help them become more comfortable around people they don’t know.
Though both Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs should be bathed occasionally, the breed is mostly clean and odourless. You read that right, they are virtually odour free.
Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/