Breeds 101: Meet the Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a member of the toy group, and they are known for their affectionate personality. They rank at 79 out of 195 on the American Kennel Club’s most popular breeds list and today the Cresteds serve as the focus for the “Breeds 101” series.
The Chinese Crested, often known for its hairless version, also comes in a powderpuff version that has silky hair that covers the whole body instead of just the head, tail, and ankles. Crested’s stand somewhere between 11-13 inches and weigh 8-12 pounds,
The Chinese Crested has such a long history that there is not exact knowledge of how the breed was created. Speculation is that the Crested came from a larger version of a hairless African dog that the Chinese miniaturized.
The Crested travelled onboard of Chinese trading vessels exterminating varmint. This seaman lifestyle earned them the nickname of the Chinese Ship Dog. Their vast travels to different countries created lots of local variations of the breed.
The Chinese Crested is a loving and alert dog in an intriguing looking package that makes a great companion or competitor in agility competitions.
According to breed standards from the American Kennel Club the Chinese Crested is a “toy dog, fine-boned, elegant and graceful. The distinct varieties are born in the same litter. The Hairless with hair only on the head, tail and feet and the Powderpuff, completely covered with hair.”
The Chinese Crested comes in a variety of standard colors including: apricot, black, black/white/tan, blue, chocolate, cream, palomino, pink/chocolate, pink/slate, slate, and white. They also come in additional colors that are recognized colors but are not considered standard. Spotted and white markings are both considered standard markings on the breed.
The hairless Chinese Crested has the advantages of no shedding or doggy odor. They do require some extra care for their bare skin though including specific skin treatment for allergies, sunscreen, and acne lotions. Specific protective clothing can also be used when spending time outdoors to protect the Crested’s delicate skin.
The powderpuff Chinese Crested requires frequent brushing to keep its coat fluffy and mat free. Their coat is unique because the overcoat is long and silky while the under coat is shorter, this is opposite of most hairy breeds.
Crested’s are very devoted to their humans which help make training easier since they are very motivated to please them. This also makes them great competitions in a variety of agility competitions. Their small stature and personality make these dogs great candidates for apartment or small house living because their exercise needs can easily be satisfied with daily walks and playtime.
While good breeders should screen for issues ahead of time. eye issues can be seen in the Chinese Crested. Some of these issues are “progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and primary lens luxation.” As with most members of the toy group, Crested’s can be affected by patellar luxation.
The unique look of the breed has earned them a spot in many movies as the canine companions, they can be seen in movies such as How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, New York Minute, 102 Dalmations and Cats and Dogs.
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Their unique look has also earned them top marks in many different dog shows including the World’s Ugliest Dog Competition. A special spotlight goes out to Sam, a blind Chinese Crested who has one the contest three times in a row.