Chinese Crested

Life Expectancy About 10-12 years

History

There are many tales about the origin of today's Chinese Crested dogs. Some of these recounts trace the dogs to China via ancient trade routes. One certainty is that in the 1920s, Debora Wood began expanding the breed and most of today's dogs can trace their lineage to those she created. In 1991, a full recognition from the AKC was granted. The Chinese Crested has since gained popularity both in England and the U.S. as a jolly companion dog as well as an occasional competitor in numerous dog shows.

General Description

There are two different varieties of Chinese Crested dogs: one is completely hairless apart from its tail, head, and feet, while the other, known as the Powder Puff, has a coat with soft, long hair. Both varieties have multiple colors, spotted, mixed or solid and (oddly) come in one litter. Chinese Crested dogs have long muzzles, broad skulls, dark eyes, and erect ears. It may seemingly appear that both varieties are from different breeds, but the hairless feature is simply a deficiency of the dominant trait. The major difference between the two varieties is that while the Hairless Chinese Crested dog has one coat with some of the body parts being hairless, the Powder Puff has a solid double coat.

Temperament

The hairless Chinese Crested dogs are lively, sweet, cuddly and playful. They are exceptionally loving and have affection for children, although children ought to be taught to refrain from handling this breed in a rough manner because they easily get injured due to the lack of protective hair. These dogs are alert, intelligent and ideal companions. It is important to ensure that puppies are well-socialized and accustomed to loud sounds while still young to circumvent potential timidity. If they are not babied by their owners, they grow to become well adjusted dogs. They are capable of performing tricks and are compatible with different pets.

Health and Care

Chinese Crested dogs have a significant portion of exposed skin much like our own. It requires special care to prevent skin irritations and problems, just as ours does. Sunscreen may be necessary in warm climates to protect their skin from intense UV rays. Many of these dogs have allergies for wool and lanolin. Their teeth require care to aid against decay; since hairless dogs commonly lose numerous teeth while still young, bones should be excluded from their meals. This breed should not be overfed as it easily gets obese. They are typically clean, are not susceptible to ticks or fleas, and they lack doggie odor. Power Puffs require more grooming due to their solid double coat.

Other Important Information

Chinese Crested dogs are ideal for indoor apartment life where they are fairly active even in the absence of a yard. Sweaters are recommended for this breed, especially in the cold season, but check content labels carefully to avoid wool if the allergy is present in your dog. Although it is very tempting to carry these dogs around due to their size, they should be given plenty of exercise; otherwise they will start exhibiting bad behavior. They are normally very clean and hardly ever mess their surrounding or wherever they are kept.

Pets4You offers listings of Chinese Crested breeders with puppies for sale.