Quick Facts:

Group Classification: Southern, AKC Toy

Country of Origin: Africa

Date of Origin: 1885

Weight (M): 8-10 pounds Height (M): 11-13 inches

Weight (F): 7-9 pounds Height (F): 10-12 inches

Life Expectancy: About 10-12 years

History

Africa is the origin of the Chinese Crested breed of dog where they were commonly referred to as the ‘African Hairless Terriers’. They were kept by the ancient Aztecs as ‘bedwarmers’ and were picked by the trading ships of the Chinese when they made stops along Africa. The first revelation of this breed from the West was in 1885, but it was not until 1979 that the first breed was established and in 1991, a full recognition of AKC was granted. The Chinese Crested has over the years gained popularity both in England and the United States as a jolly companion dog as well as an occasional competitor in numerous dog shows targeting rare dogs.

General Description

There exist 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 hairlessness feature is simply a deficiency of the dominant trait. The major difference between the two varieties is that while the Hairless Chinese Crested dog comprises one coat with some of the body parts being hairless, the Powder puff on the other hand has a solid double coat.

Temperament

The hairless Chinese Crested dogs are lively, sweet, cuddly and playful. Other than being exceptionally loving, they have affection for children, although the children ought to be taught to refrain from handling this breed in a rough manner because they easily get injured due to lack of protective hair. These dogs are alert, intelligent and ideal entertaining 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 that requires special care in a bid of preventing skin irritations and problems. Sunscreen may be used in such cases. Most of these dogs have allergies for wool and lanolin. Their teeth require care to aid against decay and 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 commonly clean, are not susceptible to ticks or fleas and 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 fairy active even in the absence of a yard. Sweaters are recommended for this breed of dogs especially in the cold season. Although it is very tempting to carry these dogs around due to their size, they should be given lots 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.