Everybody needs a companion, and the Chinese Crested dog breed was bred to be a companion to people who are physically disabled. These dogs are very loyal and seem to be able to read your mind. They will lie next to you to keep you company for hours.
Uncharacteristically, the Chinese Crested dog is one of the few dogs that does not want to go out and run around, instead preferring to stay with his owner. With that said, they are still highly athletic if they need to be, and can even leap over tall fences.
Alternate Names
- Hairless Dog
- Powderpuff Dog
Appearance:
Body: Lean and straight-backed with a broad chest and thin bones.
Coat: Hairless group has a “crest” on the head, a “plume” on the tail, and socks. Powderpuff group has very soft and silky hair all over it’s body.
Color: Any color or any combination thereof.
Ears: Erect in hairless variety. Hung down and covered with long hair in the powderpuff variety.
Eyes: Dark or light depending on the color of the skin, wide-set and almond-shaped.
Feet: Narrow, hare-like, and with long toes.
Head: Long, smooth, and triangular-shaped with a tapering muzzle. Skull is arched with a slight stop.
Legs: Long, narrow, and straight but powerful.
Neck: Lean and arched.
Size:
Weight: 10 – 13 pounds (4.5 – 5.9kg)
Height: 11 – 13 inches (27.9 – 33cm)
Tail: Thin and tapered. Powderpuffs have hair on the entire tail and the Hairless only has hair on the end of his tail.
Behavior
Recommended for novice handlers
Not easily house trained
An indoor dog who requires lots of love and attention
The Chinese Crested dog is a well-mannered and affectionate breed who loves to play and jump. He is a family dog who demands a great deal of attention, companionship, and devotion from his owner. The Crested has an inquisitive personality and has been known to scale high fences to satisfy his curiosity of what’s on the other side.
He makes a great family pet and is good with children, if the children are older and respectful of him. He can be easily injured if unintentionally stepped on by children or adults. He is generally good with other family pets but, due to his dependence on his owner, he may become jealous and should be monitored until you’re sure of his reactions.
Some Chinese Crested dogs are known to sing and some to smile.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Toy Group
Care and Grooming
Exercise: Moderate exercise is sufficient. His body may become soaked during active exercise or playtime. The Crested sweats like humans instead of panting like other dogs.
Grooming: Brush and comb two times weekly.
Health
Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 Years
Possible Problems:
Acne
Luxating Patella
Sunburn
Tooth and toenail abnormalities
Chinese Crested dogs may have a negative reaction to anesthesia, vaccinations, and other drugs.
It’s important to keep this dog protected from the sun and cold due to their hairless bodies.
Country of Origin
China / Africa – some believe they were brought to the U.S. from Africa and some believe they are a descendant of the Chihuahua and Mexican hairless. No one is certain of his actual origin.
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