Chinese Crested

Despite the name, the breed’s exact origins are mixed with legend. Small hairless dogs traveled on merchant ships as vermin control and companions; related types appeared in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. By the late 1800s–early 1900s, fanciers helped stabilize the Hairless and Powderpuff varieties. Modern Cresteds are beloved for their expressive faces, devoted temperaments, and quirky elegance in the ring and at home.

‍

A fine-boned, elegant toy with expressive eyes and graceful movement.

• Weight: 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg)
• Height: 11–13 in (28–33 cm)
• Varieties: Hairless (crest, plume, socks) and Powderpuff (full veil coat)
• Coat/skin colours: Any colour or combination; Hairless skin may be spotted or solid
• Distinctive Traits: Slender body, long neck, tapered muzzle, large ears, long hare-like feet with elongated toes, lively, light-footed gait

‍

Care differs by variety—skincare for Hairless, coat care for Powderpuff.

• Hairless:
  • Bathing: 1×/week with gentle, non-comedogenic dog shampoo; rinse well
  • Skincare: Moisturize lightly (non-oily), manage blackheads; avoid harsh human products
  • Sun/Cold: Dog-safe sunscreen on exposed skin; sweaters/coats in cool weather
  • Hair Trim: Tidy crest/plume/socks as desired; clip stray body hair for a clean outline
• Powderpuff:
  • Brushing/Combing: 3–4×/week (line-brush to the skin; mat-prone behind ears, armpits, groin)
  • Bathing & Drying: Every 3–4 weeks; blow-dry straight to prevent tangles
  • Trims: Many owners tidy muzzle/feet for easier upkeep
• Both Varieties:
  • Teeth: Brush 3–4×/week (small-breed dental risk; Hairless may have misshapen/missing teeth)
  • Ears/Nails: Clean ears weekly; trim nails every 2–3 weeks
  • Shedding: Hairless minimal; Powderpuff low–moderate with brushing

‍

Moderate needs; protect skin from sun/cold.

• Daily Duration: 30–45 minutes total (split walks + indoor play/training)
• Great Activities: Trick training, rally/obedience, scent games, short fetch, agility at low jumps
• Suitability: Excellent for condos/apartments; avoid midday sun for Hairless

‍

Bright, sensitive, and eager to please—keep it positive and predictable.

• Approach: Reward-based training; short (3–8 min) sessions; gentle handling
• Focus Areas: House-training routine, recall, polite greetings, quiet on cue (alert barkers), cooperative care (skincare, blow-dryer, nail work)
• Socialization: Early, kind exposure to people/dogs/surfaces; build confidence without overwhelming

‍

Keep lean for longevity and dental/orthopedic health.

• Food Type: High-quality toy/small-breed formula or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~½–1¼ cups/day total, split into two meals (adjust to size/activity)
• Diet Advice: Maintain BCS 4–5/9; consider omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/coat; use dental chews and daily brushing; ensure hydration

‍

Seek transparency on health and variety-specific care (skincare vs coat care).

• Breeders: Choose CKC-affiliated preservation breeders who provide patella/eye results, discuss dentition, and teach skincare/coat routines; many pair Hairless × Powderpuff for genetic diversity and dentition quality
• Adoption: Toy-breed and Crested-specific rescues often rehome both varieties; ask about skin/teeth history and grooming needs
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; national/regional Crested clubs; local obedience/trick/agility groups (ON/BC/QC/AB) for community

‍

Long-lived overall, with a few variety-linked considerations—choose health-tested lines.

• Dental: Periodontal disease, retained baby teeth, and missing/malformed teeth (especially Hairless—ectodermal traits)
• Orthopedic: Patellar luxation; Legg–Calvé–Perthes reported in some toy lines
• Eyes: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)/cataracts reported—annual CAER eye exams recommended
• Skin (Hairless): Sunburn, acne/folliculitis; rare skin neoplasia risk with chronic UV—use sunscreen/shade
• Allergies: Some environmental/food sensitivities
• Life Expectancy: 13–15+ years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Patellas, CAER eye exam, dentition assessment; PRA DNA where available for the line; share multi-generation health/temperament history

‍

Are Chinese Cresteds hypoallergenic?
No—no breed is truly hypoallergenic. Hairless Cresteds often shed very little dander, but individual reactions vary.

Do Chinese Cresteds shed?
Hairless: minimal hair shed. Powderpuff: low–moderate with regular brushing and blow-drying after baths.

Hairless vs Powderpuff—what’s the difference?
Hairless has exposed skin with a crest, plume, and socks; Powderpuff has a full, soft veil coat. Care focuses on skincare vs coat care.

Do Hairless Chinese Cresteds need sunscreen and clothing?
Yes—use dog-safe sunscreen on exposed skin and light layers in cool weather; avoid midday sun.

How much exercise does a Chinese Crested need?
About 30–45 minutes daily plus brain work (tricks, scent games).

Are Chinese Cresteds good apartment dogs?
Yes—quiet, people-oriented, and satisfied with short walks and play.

Do Chinese Cresteds have dental problems?
Often—especially Hairless (missing/malformed teeth). Brush daily if possible and plan regular vet dentals.

Do Chinese Cresteds bark a lot?
They can be alert barkers. Teach a reliable “quiet” and manage window/door triggers.

What health tests should breeders do?
Patellas and CAER eye exams as standard; PRA DNA where available for the line; document dentition and discuss Legg–Calvé–Perthes history.

‍