Introducing the Chinese Crested Dog
Discover everything you need to know about the Chinese Crested Dog: its characteristics, behavior, training, and cost.
The Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog, a unique and lovable companion
Originating from Africa and popularized by Chinese sailors, the Chinese Crested Dog is cherished worldwide for its distinct appearance and loving nature.
Brave and intelligent, they make loyal companions and excel in dog sports. Whether Hairless or Powder puff, these playful, gentle dogs form strong bonds with their owners, making them ideal pets for families or individuals.
CHINESE CRESTED DOG FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Chinese Crested Dog.
Group
The Chinese Crested Dog belongs to the Toy group, bred for companionship and known for their affectionate nature.
Size
A small breed, they stand 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh 5 to 12 pounds.
Coat length
They come in two types: Hairless with tufts of hair, and Powderpuff with a soft, long double coat.
Coat color
Colors vary from pink or grey skin in Hairless, to a range of shades in Powderpuff, from white to black.
Living environment
They adapt well to apartments or houses but should be kept indoors due to temperature sensitivity.
Sociability
Sociable and friendly, they bond well with children and other animals.
Health
Generally healthy, though prone to dental issues and skin allergies, especially in the Hairless variety.
Training
Intelligent and easy to train with gentle, patient methods.
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Physical characteristics
The Chinese Crested Dog, an unmistakable beauty
The Chinese Crested Dog is small and graceful. The Hairless variety has soft skin with tufts of hair, while the Powderpuff has a silky coat. Their expressive face is one of their standout features.
Size and weight of the Chinese Crested Dog
Females typically stand between 11 and 12 inches tall, weighing around 5 to 10 pounds. Males are slightly larger, measuring between 12 and 13 inches in height and weighing 8 to 12 pounds. Both genders generally reach their full adult size by the age of 10 to 12 months. Despite their small stature, they possess a well-balanced and sturdy build, making them agile and active companions.
The coat of the Chinese Crested Dog
Coat length
The Chinese Crested Dog comes in two distinct varieties: the Hairless type, which has smooth skin with soft tufts of hair on the head (often called a "crest"), tail, and feet, and the Powderpuff variety, which features a full, long, and silky double coat that covers the entire body. Both types are elegant and graceful in appearance, each bringing its own unique charm to this small, affectionate breed.
Coat color
The colors of Chinese Crested Dogs vary depending on the type. Hairless varieties often display skin tones in shades of pink, gray, black, or even a blend of these colors with patches. In contrast, Powderpuff varieties showcase a soft, full coat that can come in a range of colors including white, black, cream, or a mix of these shades, sometimes with additional markings or patterns. This diversity in coloring adds to their distinctive and eye-catching appearance.
Coat care
Hairless varieties of the Chinese Crested Dog require regular skin care to prevent dryness, irritation, and sunburn, as their exposed skin is more vulnerable to environmental factors. Powderpuffs, with their long and silky coat, need daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting, ensuring their coat stays soft and smooth. Despite their differences, both varieties are known for shedding minimally, making them relatively low-maintenance in terms of fur around the home.
Other characteristics of the Chinese Crested Dog
Physical features
The Chinese Crested Dog is small and balanced, with a graceful appearance. Its head is rounded with a narrow muzzle, and it has almond-shaped eyes in shades of brown or amber. The large ears are set high and often stand erect. The body is slender but well-muscled, giving the dog an elegant look.
Temperament & behavior
What is the temperament of the Chinese Crested Dog?
The Chinese Crested Dog is affectionate, loyal, and playful, forming strong bonds with its family.
Chinese Crested Dog category
Among the 400 recognized dog breeds, the Chinese Crested Dog belongs to the Toy group, which includes small, companion-oriented breeds like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians. This group is known for its affectionate and sociable nature, and the Chinese Crested Dog is no exception. They are highly valued as companion animals, admired for their intelligence, gentleness, and deep devotion to their owners. Their small size and friendly temperament make them ideal for families, singles, or seniors looking for a loving and loyal pet.
Behavior of the Chinese Crested Dog
A devoted companion
The Chinese Crested Dog is an affectionate and playful breed that thrives on close interaction with its owner. They form deep bonds and seek constant companionship, making them happiest when they are the center of attention. To feel secure and emotionally balanced, they require an owner who is present and attentive, providing them with the love and reassurance they need to flourish. This strong attachment means they are well-suited for individuals or families who can devote time and care to their well-being.
A sociable and loving pet
These sociable dogs are known for getting along well with both people and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families, including those with children. Their friendly and gentle nature makes them a joy to be around, but early socialization is key to fostering their positive interactions with others. By exposing them to various environments, people, and animals from a young age, their naturally friendly temperament is further developed, ensuring they grow into well-adjusted and confident companions.
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The Chinese Crested Dog's living environment
Great for any home
The Chinese Crested Dog adapts well to both apartment and house living, provided they receive plenty of attention from their owner. Their small size makes them suitable for indoor living, but they still require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Two daily walks, each lasting 20 to 30 minutes, are ideal to meet their energy needs while also providing mental stimulation. With the right amount of attention and exercise, they can thrive in various environments.
Loves to explore
While the Chinese Crested Dog is adaptable to indoor living, they truly thrive with regular outdoor access where they can explore, satisfy their natural curiosity, and burn off energy through play. Having a safe, enclosed yard or access to outdoor spaces allows them to engage in physical activities, which is important for their mental and physical well-being. Even a small outdoor area can make a big difference in keeping them happy and content.
Training the Chinese Crested Dog
Quick to learn
The Chinese Crested Dog is highly intelligent and responds well to training, especially when positive reinforcement methods are used. Consistent, gentle guidance is essential to keep them engaged and cooperative during training sessions. Due to their curious nature, a GPS collar can be helpful in preventing escapes during outdoor activities, providing peace of mind for owners. This combination of intelligence, gentle training, and safety precautions ensures a well-behaved and secure pet.
Responsive and social
With early socialization, the Chinese Crested Dog develops strong listening skills and bonds closely with their owners. This early exposure helps them become more confident and well-adjusted, making them more responsive to training. Their eagerness to please and affectionate nature means they thrive in environments where they are given attention and consistent guidance, leading to a strong and trusting relationship with their owners.
Health & nutrition
How to take care of the Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog is generally healthy but requires daily care to prevent skin and dental issues.
The health of the Chinese Crested Dog
Illnesses
Though generally robust, the Chinese Crested Dog can be prone to certain health issues such as skin allergies, particularly in the Hairless variety, as well as dental problems and occasional eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help manage these potential concerns. Despite these possible health challenges, with the right attention and care, they typically enjoy a lifespan of 13 to 18 years, making them a relatively long-lived and resilient breed.
Routine care
Regular vet visits for vaccinations, deworming, and parasite control are essential for maintaining the Chinese Crested Dog's health. Daily care involves brushing for Powderpuffs to prevent matting, as well as cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and trimming their nails to keep them in top condition. Despite their minimal shedding, the Chinese Crested Dog is not considered hypoallergenic, so potential owners with allergies should take note.
Feeding the Chinese Crested Dog
Daily requirements
The Chinese Crested Dog requires a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of protein and essential vitamins to support their overall health and energy levels. Premium-quality kibble provides a strong nutritional foundation, but their diet can also be supplemented with lean meats, such as chicken or beef, for additional protein. It's important to ensure that fat intake is kept low to maintain a healthy weight and avoid any potential digestive issues.
Breeding or adoption & cost
What does a Chinese Crested Dog cost?
The Chinese Crested Dog is popular, with several breeders available, but consider important factors before adopting.
How to choose your Chinese Crested Dog
Finding the right breeder
When choosing a breeder, visit a reputable breeder to ensure good living conditions and health. Microchipping by 8 weeks and registration in either Petlog or Animal Tracker is legally required in Great Britain to avoid a
fine. Vets or Blue Cross centers can do this.
The price of a Chinese Crested Dog
Chinese Crested Dog puppies typically range in price from
to
, depending on factors like lineage and breeder reputation. Annual care expenses, including food, grooming, and veterinary care, are estimated to be between
and
.
Which dog breed is right for you?
Which dog breed is right for you?
Take the test to find out!
Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!
