Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested Dog is a small dog breed that was carefully bred to its modern-day version in China. It comes in two varieties - the Powderpuff (with hair) and Hairless. Some historians believe that this breed was created in order to keep the company to people with physical and mental disabilities. These dogs are able to lay in the same spot for hours upon hours and not get bored or feel the urge to move and run around.
The two varieties of these dogs can come in the same litter and from the same parents. It can be quite surprising for people to see both hairless puppies and puppies with hair in the same litter.
Their ability to stay still for hours and “laziness” does not mean that these dogs don’t like physical activity, on the contrary, they can be extremely active and agile. They excel at dog sports such as agility and are able to move really fast. They are very devoted and loyal to their human family, some might even say they are a bit needy. They will become so attached to their owner that they would like to be with you constantly, even demand that they sleep in the same bed as you. That cannot be said for strangers. They are not the best breed if you have company or guests often as they can react quite aggressively.
Height:
11-13 in (28-33 cm)
Weight:
8–12 lb (3.5–5.5 kg)
Origin:
China
Life Expectancy:
13-18 years
Breed History
Chinese Crested are not actually dogs from China. These dogs evolved from a Mexican or African hairless dog and they were reduced in size by the Chinese. These dogs were kept by Chinese emperors.
Dog Breed Characteristics
FCI standard
This is a very old dog breed so it is no wonder that these dogs have a standard in place. The FCI or the Federation Cynologique Internationale is a large union of 98 national cynology associations and their standard for the Chinese Crested Dogs describes them as being small, active, and graceful. These dogs are placed in Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs) Section 4 (Hairless breeds). These dogs do not have a working trial. The requested size of these dogs according to this standard is 11 - 13 in (28 - 33 cm) for the male dogs and 9 - 12 in (23 - 30 cm) for the female dogs.
This breed was registered by the FCI on the 17th of July 1972.
Grooming
Chinese Crested comes in two variants: hairless and powderpuff. A hairless variant is bald except for the soft hair on their head, feet, and tail. These dogs need to be bathed frequently with quality shampoo.
The other variant Powderpuff requires a lot of grooming. These dogs have a silky double coat that you should brush weekly to keep the dog looking good. They should be bathed regularly but not as much as the hairless variant.
Chinese Crested coat colors:
- Any color or combination of colors
The rest is basic care; trim their nails when needed (if they don't wear them down naturally), brush their teeth weekly to prevent tartar buildup and bacteria development. Regularly check their ears for any sign of redness or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. You can wipe their ears with the cotton ball dipped into an ear cleaner. The key for your dog to get used to all things mentioned above is to start early with them. Make a positive experience for the dog, full of praises and rewards, and you can be sure that your dog will enjoy all these things when they grow up.
Exercise
These dogs need only a small amount of daily activities to be happy and satisfied. In most cases, a few daily walks will be enough. You must be careful when you are with this dog outside and you should use sunscreen or protective clothing.
Socialization
Like any other dog breed, the Chinese Crested requires early socialization. It is essential to ensure that your dog doesn’t become shy or aggressive. Expose your dog to many different people, dogs, sights, and situations to secure a well-rounded dog.
Socialization can even be done at home. Dress differently; wear glasses, hats, and baggy clothes so your puppy can’t recognize you right away. Teach your puppy to stay alone for a while and not make a fuss about it. It is the best way to make sure your puppy will grow up to be a stable, confident, and well-behaved dog.
Kids
Early socialization and proper training can teach them to behave even when children are around. You must always teach your kids how to properly play with such a small dog so they won't hurt the dog by accident.
Other animals
These dogs can get along well with other dogs and can enjoy their company. With all other animals, these dogs will perfectly get along and you shouldn’t have any problems.
Health problems
The Chinese Crested is generally considered a healthy breed, but they are prone to some health issues and concerns like any other dog breed. These dogs have an average lifespan of 13-18 years.
When getting any breed, the breeder must show you health tests that they have done for their breeding dogs. Dogs must be adequately tested because taking a chance and hoping that the puppy’s parents are healthy is a risk no one should ever take. Only healthy dogs should be bred because that is the only way to assure that bloodlines will remain healthy and without any problems. Health problems associated with this breed are;
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy - Group of diseases that affect the retina and cause it to deteriorate over time.
- Dental problems
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Chinese Crested breeders
If you are a fan of this breed and interested in getting one of these dogs, make sure you find a registered, respectable, and reputable Chinese Crested Dog breeder. Good breeders are most likely taking care of the bloodline they are creating and have the best interest of their dogs in mind. Quality breeding is the most important thing to keep in mind when you are looking for a breeder of your desired dog breed. We are sure you will get a great companion and family member if you decide to get a Chinese Crested Dog.
SEARCH CHINESE CRESTED BREEDERS
World Dog Finder team
Updated at27.06.2020.
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