Chinese Crested Dogs

Picture source:
Altair Chinese Crested Dogs

There are two different varieties of Chinese Crested Dogs. One is the hairless, which only has hair on its feet, tail, and head. The other is called the Powder puff, which has a coat of soft long hair. This toy dog is elegant and graceful. The Chinese Crested comes in a variety of colors, solid, spotted or mixed. Their ears are erect and their eyes are dark.

Chinese Crested Dogs - Origin

There is some controversy as to the exact origin of the Chinese Crested Dog. There is written record of their existence in 13th century China. The claim is that they originated in Africa and were called the "African Hairless Terrier." The Aztecs used them as bed warmers and food. Chinese trading ships stopped along Africa on their routes, and it is believed that they picked up these dogs because they were excellent ratters aboard their ships. They were then renamed to the current name. Even though the breed was exhibited in the West as early as 1885, the Chinese Crested was not fully recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1991. There are three other hairless breeds in the United States: The Mexican Hairless, the Inca Hairless Dog, and the Peruvian Inca Orchid. The Chinese Crested Dog is shown in many rare breed shows. Even though the breed is still fairly rare in the United States, they are growing in popularity as a jolly companion.

Chinese Crested Dogs - Temperament

The Chinese Crested dog is a loving companion. They are sweet, lively, playful, and cuddly. Chinese Crested owners will claim that they smile and like to give hugs. The Chinese Crested is affectionate with children. Owners should remember to warn children to not get too rough with the hairless because they do not have a protective layer of hair and can be injured easily. They are entertaining companions--intelligent and very alert. It is important to socialize a puppy to loud noises and children when they are young. This will help the pup to grow up without being timid. The Chinese Crested is not a barker and is good with other pets in general. They will perform tricks when trained appropriately. They also like to climb and dig holes. Craving constant attention, the Chinese Crested becomes very attached to its owners. They will often times have trouble adjusting to a new owner. Overall, this dog is a playful, entertaining and loving companion.

Chinese Crested Dogs - Physical Characteristics

The head is described as having the shape of a slice of pie with the cheeks tapering into the muzzle. The eyes of the Chinese Crested tend to match the color of the dog's coat. Dogs with lighter coats have lighter eyes and dogs with darker coats have darker eyes. The eyes are typically almond- shaped and positioned wide apart. Their ears are large, erect, and normally not cropped. The base of the ear is on the same level with the corner of the eye. The nose also tends to be the same shade of the coat of the dog. The Chinese Crested carries their tail merrily and forward over their back slightly when they are in motion. When at rest, they hold their tail down with a slight curve at the end. Their gait tends to be energetic, yet smooth and agile.

Chinese Crested Dogs - Pictures

Picture source:
Altair Chinese Crested Dogs

Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: Less than 10 pounds

Chinese Crested Dogs - Coat

The Powder puff has a double coat of silky-smooth hair. The coat is straight and moderately dense and long. The Powder puff has longer "guard hairs" that protect the shorter silky undercoat. The Powder puff must be brushed on a regular basis to avoid knots. The Hairless variety only has hair on their feet, their head, and their tail. The hair is soft and silky and can grow very long in length. The exposed skin is smooth and soft.
Life Expectancy: Chinese Cresteds live for about 10-12 years.