The Chinese Crested Dog

  • By: Mick Whitefield
  • Time to read: 2 min.

Originating from China this small slender dog has two distinctive looks. The most commonly known is the Hairless variety which has spotted pink skin a spiky “crested” headpiece, with furry socks and feathery tail, it is very difficult to mistake the sweet and slender Chinese Crested for any other breed.

Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs

The second less commonly known variety breed is known as “The Powderpuff”. The slender frame is no different but this breed has a full soft silky coat, which looks and feels very elegant.

Origin: ~ China.
Bred for: ~ Ratting, Lap Dogs and curiosity pieces.
Colour: ~ A Variety of colours available.
Height: ~ 11 to 13 inches or 28 to 33cms.
Weight: ~ 5 to 12lbs or 2 to 5kgs.

Lifespan: ~ 13 to 15 years.
AKC Registry – Toy Group.

History of The Chinese Crested Dog

Whilst many Hairless breeds appear to have been bred specifically or have appeared by mutation in recent decades, these Chinese Crested dogs appear to be the exception as they have been recorded as early as the 13th Century.

Chinese seafarers were beleved to have kept the dogs on ships as “ratters”, but also as Curios to show and sometimes sell to other traders. There is not much record of them in western culture until about 1800 when they appeared in paintings of the era.

Despite their long history the AKC did not recognize the breed until its registration in 1991, allowing both the Hairless and the Powderpuff varieties.

Temperament and Upkeep of the Chinese Crested

These very affectionate, playful, gentle and sensitive dogs are devoted family dogs and what we here at Top Lap Dogs consider to be one of the perfect Lap Dogs. Good with Seniors, Kids, strangers and other dogs, they will give their owners very little angst.

A short walk or just a playful romp around the garden or house will keep these very amiable dogs active enough.


A pair of Chinese Crested Dogs

The only work they will take to help keep them well is a good grooming session at least every couple of days, some shaving of their muzzle and for the Hairless variety an application of sun cream or sun block during the hot summer weather.

They have a few health concerns more toward older age, but then any dog getting to 15 years of age is likely to have some problems.
PRA, glaucoma, lens luxation and patellar luxation.

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