Pets

The Chinese Crested Dog is one of the smaller (10-13 lbs) breed of dog known as toys, its standout feature is its unusual appearance. It comes in two varieties, the Hairless(shown left) and the Powderpuff (below left).

Appearance


The two versions of the the Chinese Crested Dog at first glance appear to be two different breeds. The Hairless(left) is far more popular, known for its lack of a fur coat. Instead, it has a soft, humanlike skin that is unusual to the touch, though it has tufts of fur on its paws ("socks") and tail ("plume") and long, wavy hair on its head ("crest"). Fur on the muzzle, known as a beard, is not uncommon. The hairless variety may vary in amount of body hair. A true hairless often does not have as much furnishings (hair on the head, tail, and paws); however, many of the dogs seen in the show ring are actually a "moderate" or "hairy" hairless that is shaved down. The difference between a very hairy hairless and a "puff" is that the hairless has a single coat, often with hairless parts on the body, while the puff has a thick double coat.

The skin of the Hairless comes in a variety of colours, ranging from a pale flesh to black, and is often mottled. Hairless Cresteds may lack a full set of teeth.

The Powderpuff(top) has the crest and build of the Hairless, but also has a full coat of long hair. The look of the Powderpuff varies, according to how it is groomed. When its fur is completely grown out onto its face, it strongly resembles a terrier; however, the Powderpuff is usually shaved around the snout as a standard cut. Its fur is rabiit soft, and shedding is minimal. Due to their coat type, both the Powderpuff or Hairless are considered good pets for allergy sufferers.

Temperament
Chinese Cresteds are affectionate and playful. They make great family pets have endearing personalities and good with children. Some are known 'singers' (oooowww!), while others are known to 'smile'(playfully baring teeth when happy). They are generally happy lap dogs with lively personalities. Owners claim them to be the most affecionate and friendly of the toy dogs.

Health
The Hairless is susceptible to acne(yes, dogs get it!) and sunburn. Skin should be treated as if that of a child. Add moisteriser in windy areas, sunburn cream in especially hot climates. They are generally healthy, long lived dogs and often live to 15 + years.

History
Though associated with China since the 13th century, most believe it was brought there from Africa, others believe that it might be a cross of the Chihuahua and Mexican Hairless Dog, the latter of which it resembles. The true history of the breed is in fact unclear.

Other relevant pages - Chinese Crested Dog

We are looking for business relating to the category Chinese Crested Dog Breeders to list in our directory. If you operate such a business, please click here and add your business.

<< Previous Chihuahua | Back to Dog Breeds | Next >> Chinese Shar-Pei