Chinese Crested

Size: Small
Other Names: Crested, Puff, Chinese Crested Dog
Country of Origin: China / Africa (modern type developed as a companion)
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Toy
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Toys
United Kennel Club (UKC): Companion Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Toys
The Kennel Club (KC): Toy
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Toy
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Toy

Height:

11-13 inches

Weight:

10-13 pounds

Color(s):

Any

Coat:

Powderpuff: double, straight, soft, silky coat, with a short and silky undercoat

Description:

here are two varieties of Chinese Crested: the Hairless and the Powderpuff.  Both varieties can be born in the same litter.  All Chinese Crested have the Powderpuff trait, which means all Hairless Chinese Crested have the ability to produce Powderpuff puppies, even when bread to another Hairless.

Temperament:

Chinese Cresteds are typically affectionate with their people, lively, and sensitive.  Hairless dogs seek warmth and do not like long spells in strong sun without protection.

Training:

They learn household manners if training stays gentle.  Keep sessions short.

Care & Grooming:

Powderpuffs, or Puffs, require frequent brushing to avoid matting.  The Hairless Chinese Crested’s skin can be susceptible to acne, dryness, and sunburn.  Hypoallergenic or oil-free moisturizing cream applied every other day or after bathing, can keep his skin from becoming too dry.  Many owners apply baby sunscreen to their pets before spending time in strong sun, to avoid sunburn.  Some Cresteds have skin allergies to Lanolin, so be cautious when using any products that contain it.  Unless the dog is a "true" Hairless, which is one with virtually no hair growth on his non-extremities, trimming and/or shaving is often performed to remove stubble growth.  The quicks of Cresteds run deeper into their nails, so care must be taken not to trim the nails too short, to avoid pain and bleeding.  Chinese Cresteds should have regular eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Shedding:

Low on Hairless dogs; low to moderate on the Powderpuff.

Health:

Chinese Cresteds may have dental problems, dry or sun-sensitive skin on Hairless dogs, and patellar luxation.  Hairless skin needs sunscreen outdoors and moisturizer in dry weather.

Lifespan:

13–15 years

Litter Size:

2–4 puppies