| AKC Group: | Toy |
| A.K.A.: | N/A |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1500s |
| Country of Origin: | China |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Apricot, Black, Blue, Brown, Pink, White, Red, Sable |
| Height (Inch): | 11 - 13 |
| Weight (lb): | 8 - 10 |
| Size: | Small |
| Hair Length: | Very Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
One of the most unique breeds of dogs, the Chinese Crested, is so ugly it becomes cute. In fact, there are two separate varieties – although they both can be from the same litter. The Hairless variety is exactly as its name implies – hairless. Only the head, feet, and tail have wisps of stringy fur. On the other hand, the Powderpuff variety has plenty of fur. It is also rather stringy and tends to jet out in places giving him a frantic look. The color of the eyes of the Chinese Crested depends on the color of his coat – darker eyes for darker coats and lighter eyes for lighter coats.
Temperament:
For those looking for a great companion, the Chinese Crested can be a perfect fit. He loves to show off his tricks and entertain his family and friends. He is also quite playful. He is affectionate with adults and children alike. However, children must be instructed to handle him with care, especially since he does not have any hair to protect his skin from injury in the hairless variety. The Chinese Crested will get along well with other animals, especially if he is socialized as a puppy. He does not bark but likes to get attention from his owners just the same. In fact, he is happiest when he is with people and he does poorly if he is left alone for hours on end.
Health:
It is easy to figure out what the greatest health concern for the Chinese Crested Hairless dog may be – sunburn. In the areas where his skin is exposed, it may easily become burned by the sun’s rays if he is not covered or given a form of doggy sunscreen. He is also prone to lose his teeth prematurely. Consequently, hard dog chews and spongy chew toys should be avoided. The Chinese Crested should also get his teeth cleaned as often as possible. In addition, he should not be fed too much, especially since he has a tendency to gain weight rapidly.
Maintenance:
Naturally clean dogs are a rare find – and the Chinese Crested is one of these rare breeds. In addition, he does not have an odor. Obviously, the hairless variety requires only minimal grooming – such as his trimming his nails, cleaning his ears, putting lotion on his furless skin, and brushing his teeth. The Powderpuff variety requires a bit more maintenance – since he does have fur. However, by brushing him he can look dapper. He gets cold very quickly, so the less frequently he gets a bath, the better. He should be taken on a walk every day, but keep his small size in mind when doing so. An outing around the block may be an adventure and enough exercise for the Chinese Crested – definitely never take him for a long run or let him fend for himself in the yard or at the dog park.