Active. Does not do well left alone for long periods. Can be territorial. No cold tolerance. Hairless needs to be protected from the sun. Clean with no doggy odour. The Chinese Crested doesn’t bark a lot.
China, 1200s. “The Chinese Crested Dog comes in two varieties – the Hairless and the Powder Puff. The ‘Hairless’ have a crest of hair on their head extending part way down their neck, ‘socks’ covering their toes, and a plume on their tail. The rest of their body is, as their name implies, hairless. The ‘Powder Puff’ variety is covered entirely with a veil of long soft hair. While it is difficult to pinpoint their origin, it is said that they were owned by families of the Han Dynasty of China. The Chinese Cresteds were developed at this time as guardians of the treasure houses and, in a larger, heavier form, as hunting dogs. They were seen at shows in America from 1885 to 1926 but then were rarely ever seen for some fifty years.” [source: FCI-Standard N°288 document 16.02.2011EN]
Ratter; companion.
Playful, happy, devoted, gay, cheerful. Do not baby this breed or you might cause it to be timid.
23 to 33 cm; 5 to 6 kg. Any colour or combination of colours is accepted.
Two types: Hairless (no coat at all) and Powder Puff, which is described in the standard as “double soft and silky” with “long, thin guard hairs over the short silky undercoat.” Average to high maintenance. The Powderpuff needs regular brushing. Although you would think the Hairless are easy to groom, they are subject to pimples, acne, and even pustules. Professional grooming is not needed except for show dogs. Has little to shed.
The exposed skin on the hairless dogs requires special attention to minimise the chances of skin irritation. The hairless dogs can easily get sunburned if they are out in the sun a lot, and like humans, they need sunscreen. The hairless variety is more susceptible to tooth decay, therefore, proper and regular dental care is highly recommended. Powderpuffs have healthier teeth. Also prone to Legg-Perthes Disease.
Low to moderate. Play will take care of most of his exercise needs, though daily walks are still required to fulfil his instinct to walk.
Ideal for urban areas or apartment life. However, they need space just like any other dog, being small does not mean that they can be kept in small areas. Not tolerant to cold extremes. Fairly active indoors and will do fine without a yard.
Both varieties are good with children, although some say the Hairless is somewhat better than the Powder Puff. Children should be educated not to be rough with hairless Chinese Crested, as his exposed skin can get injured easily without the protective layer of hair other dogs have. Socialise well and expose to outside activities during puppyhood to preclude a timid disposition. Will be excellent with other pets.
Average to high; requires gentle handling.
Obedience.