Chinese Crested

Origin & history

The Chinese Crested's early history is uncertain, but hairless dogs of this type were carried aboard trading ships from port to port, valued for catching rats and as companions, which spread them widely and helped attach the Chinese name to the breed. Hairlessness in dogs arose in several places around the world, and the Crested is one of a handful of hairless breeds that became established as distinct types. Much of its modern development happened in the United States and Britain in the 20th century, where dedicated breeders fixed its type and brought it to the show ring. It is kept purely as a companion. The breed is present but uncommon in Australia, and the ANKC recognises it in the Toy Group, with both the Hairless and Powderpuff varieties accepted.

Temperament

The Chinese Crested is affectionate, playful and intensely attached to its people, often following them from room to room and wanting to be touching them, which earns it a reputation as a true companion dog. It is generally good with children, especially gentle older ones, though its slight build means play should be supervised, and it usually gets along with other dogs and pets, particularly when socialised early. With strangers it tends to be reserved or a little shy rather than bold, and confidence-building from puppyhood helps it cope with new people and situations. It is sensitive, dislikes harsh handling, and responds well to soft, encouraging, reward-based training, picking up tricks readily. Some can be timid or clingy. The standout behavioural need is company: this breed bonds so closely that it is very prone to separation anxiety and is unhappy left alone for long stretches.

Appearance

A small, elegant, fine-boned toy dog standing roughly 28 to 33 cm at the shoulder and weighing about 3.5 to 5.5 kg. It comes in two coat types within the one breed. The Hairless has smooth, warm, exposed skin over most of the body, with a crest of hair on the head, plumes on the tail, and socks of hair on the lower legs and feet. The Powderpuff is covered in a soft, fine double coat that can grow long and veil-like. Any colour or combination of colours and skin tones is accepted. The expression is alert and gentle, with large eyes and big, erect ears in the Hairless, while the Powderpuff may carry its ears upright or dropped.

Suitability

The Chinese Crested suits apartments and houses alike and is a fine choice for attentive singles, couples and older owners, as well as gentle families, who can give it the closeness it craves. Its exercise needs are light, met by short walks and indoor play, but its emotional needs are high and it does not cope well with long hours alone. It can work for sensible first-time owners willing to handle its skin care and its sensitive nature. The Australian climate calls for particular care with the Hairless variety: bare skin sunburns easily, so it needs dog-safe sunscreen, shade and limited midday sun in summer, and a coat in cold or wet weather since it has little natural insulation. The Powderpuff is hardier to weather but, like all dogs, needs shade and water in the heat.

Health

Chinese Cresteds are generally long-lived, often reaching 13 to 18 years. The Hairless variety is genetically linked to missing and abnormal teeth, so dental care and regular checks are especially important, while the Powderpuff usually has a more complete set. Both varieties can develop patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips, and the breed is predisposed to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, in which the hip joint degenerates in young dogs. Inherited eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy and primary lens luxation occur and can be DNA-tested in many lines. The exposed skin of the Hairless needs protection from sunburn, scratches and extremes of temperature, and can be prone to blackheads and irritation. Buy from a breeder who patella-checks, eye-tests and DNA-screens for the relevant eye conditions, and who can tell you about the dental and skin history in their lines.