Chinese Crested

The origins of the Chinese Crested are somewhat mysterious, with theories pointing to either African or Mexican hairless dogs (like the Xoloitzcuintli) as their ancestors. Despite the name, the breed as we know it was not developed in China. Instead, these larger hairless dogs were acquired by Chinese merchants and mariners who sailed them around the world. Onboard their ships, these dogs were prized for their ability to hunt and dispatch vermin. They were selectively bred down in size to create the smaller, more refined dog we see today.

Over time, they transitioned from ship’s ratter to cherished companion. The breed began appearing in European and American dog shows in the late 19th century. For many years, they remained a rare curiosity. The breed’s popularity grew significantly in the mid-20th century thanks to the efforts of breeders like Debora Wood and the famous burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee, who was an avid enthusiast and breeder. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Chinese Crested in 1991.

The Chinese Crested is a lively, alert, and deeply affectionate companion dog. They are known for being exceptionally devoted to their owners and families, thriving on human companionship and physical contact. They are true lap dogs that love to cuddle and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Cresteds are playful and can be quite entertaining with their joyful, sometimes comical antics. Many owners describe them as “cat-like” in their tendency to seek out high places, such as the back of a sofa or a sunny windowsill, to perch and observe their surroundings.

While loving with their family, they can be reserved or shy with strangers, making early socialization very important to build their confidence. They are generally good with other pets and gentle with respectful children. They are intelligent and sensitive dogs that respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle training methods. They are alert and will bark to announce visitors, making them good little watchdogs.

Grooming a Chinese Crested depends entirely on which of the two varieties you have, as they can be born in the same litter:

• The Hairless: This variety is mostly hairless, with soft skin and tufts of hair on the head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks). Their skin care is paramount. They require regular bathing to keep their skin clean and can be prone to acne or blackheads if not properly cared for. They need protection from the sun (sunscreen or protective clothing is a must) and moisturizing in dry weather to prevent their skin from becoming chapped.
• The Powderpuff: This variety is covered in a soft, silky double coat. The long, straight coat requires regular and thorough brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and mats from forming. A pin brush and a metal comb are essential tools. They are considered low-shedding but their coat can mat easily if neglected.

Both varieties require regular nail trims and diligent dental care. Dental issues, including missing or poorly formed teeth, are genetically linked to the hairless gene and are common in the Hairless variety.

Chinese Cresteds are playful dogs with moderate exercise needs. Despite their dainty appearance, they are surprisingly athletic and agile. Daily walks and regular opportunities for playtime are usually sufficient to keep them happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated. They are adaptable and can thrive in an apartment setting as long as their exercise needs are met.

Good exercise options for a Chinese Crested include:

• One or two short to moderate daily walks on a leash.
• Indoor or outdoor playtime in a securely fenced area. They love games of fetch or playing with soft toys.
• Canine sports: Cresteds often excel in activities that showcase their agility and intelligence, such as agility trials, obedience, and rally.

They enjoy being with their people, so activities that involve their owner are most rewarding. The Hairless variety will need protection from the elements during outdoor exercise, such as a coat in the cold and sunscreen in the sun.

Chinese Cresteds are generally a long-lived breed, but they can be prone to certain health conditions, some of which are linked to the hairless gene. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:

• Dental Issues: The Hairless variety is genetically prone to having missing, crowded, or poorly formed teeth (“primitive dentition”). This requires diligent dental care throughout their lives. Powderpuffs typically have normal dentition.
• Skin Problems: Hairless Cresteds can suffer from sunburn, acne, blackheads, and skin allergies.
• Eye Conditions: Including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), lens luxation, and glaucoma. Eye certification is crucial for breeding stock.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap, common in toy breeds.
• Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: A hip joint disorder affecting small breeds.
• Allergies:** Can affect both varieties.