Description

The Chinese Crested is a fine-boned, elegant and graceful dog who makes a loving companion, playful and entertaining. Chinese Crested adores food and will leap about in anticipation of a tiny bite. There are two types of Chinese Crested, the Hairless with hair only on the head, tail and feet and the Powderpuff who is completely covered with hair. A friendly family dog, not aggressive towards children or other animals. They do not make good kennel dogs, but love the companionship of a home. They do best as a one dog family and sometimes do not like to be over handled by strangers. Odorless and hairless they are a very low maintenance breed.

Size of Male: Height: 11-13 inches Weight: 5-12 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 11-13 inches Weight: 5-12 pounds

Temperament

The most popular of the hairless breed, the Chinese Crested are still very rare. Chinese Crested are sweet, lively, playful and cuddly. Chinese Crested is exceptionally loving and likes to hug and smile. Affectionate with children. Children should be taught not to be rough with this breed as it is friendly, but it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily. They are an entertaining companion. Intelligent and very alert. Puppies should be well-socialized and exposed to loud noises when young to avoid potential timidity. If its owners do not pamper them, these dogs can grow up to be a very well-adjusted dog. They have an ability to perform tricks and are generally good with other pets. They are not barkers. Chinese Crested Dogs like to climb and dig holes. They tend to become very attached to their owners and have difficulty adjusting to a new one. Chinese Crested Dogs crave constant companionship. So please consider before getting a dog, as with other dogs, they require a home for life and not getting on impulse.

Living Conditions

Chinese Crested is good for apartment life. Chinese Crested are fairly active indoors and will do ok without a yard. Chinese Crested should wear a sweater in cold weather.

Upkeep

The Chinese Crested enjoys a romp outside, but it hates the cold. Chinese Crested is small enough that it can get sufficient exercise with vigorous inside games. Hairless varieties of Chinese Crested will need a sweater for cold-weather outings. This is not a breed for outdoor living. Chinese crested dogs are gifted jumpers and some climb. Coat care for the powder-puff variety entails brushing every day or two. The muzzle is usually shaved every two weeks in puffs. The hairless needs regular skin care, such as the application of moisturizer or sunblock, and bathing to combat blackheads. Most hairless need some stray hairs removed every now and then.

Health

Major concerns: Progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxation

Minor concerns: Patellar Luxation, Legg- Pertes Disease

Life expectancy: 10 – 15 years