Overview
The Chinese Crested is a graceful toy breed that appears in two varieties: the Hairless, with soft bare skin and tufts on head, feet and tail, and the Powderpuff, which has a full, silky double coat.
Both are loving, playful and people-oriented, and despite the name, the breed probably did not originate in China.
History
Hairless dogs have been found in many parts of the world, and the shared hairless mutation with the Xoloitzcuintli suggests a common origin, likely in Mexico or Central America rather than China. Explorers met such dogs in Americas, Africa and Asia over the centuries.
Modern breeding began in the 1950s with Debora Wood's Crest Haven kennel, helped by the dancer Gypsy Rose Lee's dogs. The FCI recognised the breed in 1987 and the American Kennel Club in 1991.
Appearance
A small, fine-boned, elegant dog with almond-shaped eyes and large erect ears, standing about 27 to 33 cm and weighing roughly 4.5 to 6 kg. The Hairless has a crest, socks and plume, while the Powderpuff is covered with long, soft hair.
The hare-shaped foot with elongated toes is distinctive. There is no fixed colour standard.
Temperament
Chinese Cresteds are affectionate, playful and clownish, forming close bonds and often following their people around. They are intelligent and love learning tricks.
They can be sensitive and shy with strangers, and respond best to gentle, consistent training. They are not high-energy dogs, but enjoy outings and games.
Care and exercise
Daily walks and play are enough, and the breed does well in obedience and trick training. It dislikes cold and heat extremes, so a coat in cold weather is useful.
Hairless skin needs moisturiser, sunscreen and care against acne and dryness. Powderpuffs need regular brushing to prevent matting. Trim nails carefully because the quick runs deep.
Health
Eye problems are a concern: primary lens luxation, progressive retinal atrophy and dry eye. Hairless dogs often have poor dentition, and patellar luxation occurs as in other toy breeds. A neurological condition called canine multiple system degeneration has also been reported. Eye and DNA testing is advised.
