Chinese Crested
Quick Summary
Elegant, affectionate companions ideal for dedicated owners seeking a sensitive indoor pet. Best suited for those who can provide consistent attention and proper skin care.
Contents
Weight Range
8-12 lbs
♂ Male: 8-12 lbs
♀ Female: 8-12 lbs
Height Range
28-33 inches
♂ Male: 11-13"
♀ Female: 11-13"
Life Expectancy
13-18 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Toy Group
Originally bred for Developed in ancient China as companion dogs for Chinese sailors, these small dogs served as ratters on ships while traveling maritime trade routes during the Han dynasty
Popularity
#79
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 11"-13" |
| Female Height | 11"-13" |
| Male Weight | 8-12 lbs |
| Female Weight | 8-12 lbs |
| Coat Length | 2/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1,500-$3,000), supplies, and medical checks. Monthly expenses cover quality food, grooming supplies, and routine veterinary care. Factor in potential skin care products for hairless variety.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Chinese Cresteds display an affectionate, alert temperament with moderate energy levels. They're known for their devoted nature and can be somewhat reserved with strangers while maintaining strong bonds with family members.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring substantial human companionship. They bond closely with their families, get along well with other pets, but may become anxious if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Graceful and elegant, the Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: the hairless with silky hair on head, tail, and feet, and the Powderpuff with a full soft coat. Their fine-boned, slender body carries them with a light, flowing gait. Distinguished by their alert expression and vivacious personality, these dogs combine exotic looks with a warm, affectionate nature.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent companion dog
- ✓ Minimal shedding
- ✓ Good for apartment living
- ✓ Affectionate with family
Cons
- ✗ Requires skin care (hairless variety)
- ✗ Sensitive to extreme temperatures
- ✗ Can be yappy
- ✗ May be difficult to housebreak
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Alert, Lively |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Chinese Cresteds require 30-45 minutes of daily exercise through moderate walks and indoor play. Their activity should include mental stimulation games and short bursts of energetic play, maintaining a moderate intensity level suitable for their size.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for skin health in hairless variety, with potential supplements for coat and skin maintenance.
Feed 1/2 to 1 cup of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Consider supplements for skin health in hairless variety. Monitor weight closely as they can be prone to dental issues and weight gain.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Well-suited to apartment living, Chinese Cresteds thrive in indoor environments with temperature control. They need minimal space but appreciate soft bedding and sunny spots for warmth.
Adaptable to small living spaces, Chinese Cresteds need minimal room but require temperature-controlled environments. They thrive in apartments or homes with cozy spots and protection from extreme weather.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Maritime trade routes of ancient China saw these dogs aboard ships as ratters and companions to Chinese sailors. Their unique appearance developed through selective breeding, with both hairless and coated varieties preserved throughout their history.
Historical Purpose
Developed in ancient China as companion dogs for Chinese sailors, these small dogs served as ratters on ships while traveling maritime trade routes during the Han dynasty.
Fun Fact
The hairless gene in Chinese Cresteds is actually incomplete dominance, resulting in some dogs being born with fur!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Hairless variety needs sun protection and regular skin care. Both varieties require dental attention and protection from extreme temperatures.