Chinese Crested – Mixed Dog Breed Characteristics & Facts

There is no better dog breed than the Chinese Crested to accompany a couch potato. They will spend hours in bed without moving a muscle and seem to be able to read your mind. Despite being purebred, you might still be able to find these dogs in shelters and rescues. Don’t forget to adopt! If you want to bring a dog home, avoid shopping.

Although Chinese Cresteds are athletic enough to jump surprisingly tall fences and participate in agility competitions, they have almost no desire to go outside and run around like regular dogs. Although they are not gregarious, they are very social and form bonds with their pack very quickly. They don’t readily accept strangers.

You’ll have a little stalker on your hands once a Crested falls in love with you because they’ll be completely and utterly loyal. For a complete list of Chinese Crested characteristics and information, see below!

Chinese Crested Mixed Dog Breed Picture

Chinese Crested – Mixed Dog Breed Characteristics

Vital Stats:

The Chinese Crested is a small dog that has an exotic appearance but is not actually Chinese. The genetically recessive Powderpuff has a full coat, while the Hairless has silky hair on his head (the crest), tail (the plume), and feet (the socks). A single litter can contain both varieties. Whatever the variations, the Crested is a slender, fine-boned dog that is graceful and elegant. He’s gorgeous, but he consistently outperforms his rivals in ugly dog contests.

He resembles a standard large dog in a small, occasionally naked-looking frame. Although the Chinese Crested is frequently portrayed in dog books as being extremely friendly, this is more often the exception than the rule. While he’s been mischievous, he’s very likely to smile at you, that’s not quite the same thing. He is probably very sensitive, quick to react, and has a strong social drive, all of which make him needy.

He can be wonderful with familiar people, but unless he’s been well socialized and trained to control this impulse, he’s likely to bite strangers (expect yours to sleep under the covers with you). Contrary to popular belief, the Hairless is not required to wear sunscreen, moisturizer, or any other skin-care product at any time; frequently, doing so only leads to issues. If nothing is applied to the skin, it has a better chance of remaining healthy.

Cresteds do require regular bathing, though, typically once or twice per week. In reality, many Hairless types have a lot of body hair. Unsurprisingly, most people are unprepared for a Hairless’s potential level of hairiness, which can be problematic for those who have allergies. These dogs don’t have hypoallergenic coats; rather, they simply shed less than dogs of other breeds.

Despite this, they still shed more than you might expect from a “hairless” dog. Even the Hairless has hair on his head, legs, and tail that can be seen. Some allergic people tolerate the Hairless variety just fine, while others cannot. To maintain healthy skin, it is necessary to keep this body hair shaved.

Allowing it to grow out is frequently justified as a way to keep the dog warm, but the long coat actually causes skin issues rather than serving this purpose (sweaters are a better option for warmth). The Crested has the same body temperature as all other breeds and does not perspire through his skin. However, some are prone to the canine version of acne.

The Hairless Crested has an astonishingly high tolerance for heat. He has no trouble lying motionless for hours in the hot sun at temperatures of 100 degrees. For seasoned dog owners who frequently leave plenty of water out, the fact that he rarely pees and drinks scant amounts of water is quite alarming.

On the other hand, he has zero tolerance for cold. Some people expose their Crested to cold temperatures in an effort to “harden” him as though he were a seedling. Not only is this cruel, but it also doesn’t work. This dog will perish from cold much more quickly than from heat. With this dog, proceed with caution when administering shots, cortisone medications, and topical treatments. Rabies vaccines frequently cause reactions.

To drugs, including topical flea preventives, some Cresteds can react horribly. The safest approach to drug therapy is a conservative one, so avoid using anything that is not absolutely necessary. Since they are a last resort for fleas, they typically don’t require any flea or tick preventives. Cresteds make excellent family dogs because they enjoy spending time with their owners.

They get along well with kids, but before bringing this little creature into your heart and home, you should think about the kids’ ages and how they interact with dogs. They should never be left unattended with children or even by themselves in the yard because they are easily hurt. They will, however, play games, cuddle up on the couch with you in love, and live an active life with family members of any age who know how to handle dogs.

Cresteds can experience separation anxiety because they are so social and dependent, which can result in barking and destructive behaviors. If left too long on their own, they’ll climb and dig to get out of their confinement. They are relatively quiet dogs when you are present, but they will bark in alarm. They thrive in homes of all shapes and sizes, including apartments.

A wonderful family dog that is playful, loving, and endearing is the Chinese Crested. He is a steady friend who brings love, laughter, and entertainment into the lives of his owners. The Chinese Crested is skilled at climbing, jumping, and digging. Avoid the common error of underestimating their athletic prowess because of their size. They are Houdini Hounds, capable of escaping from almost any confinement.

It’s a good idea to have a six-foot fence around the yard because once they get a hold of a fence, they can climb over it. They can jump or climb without any fear, and they can jump four feet from a standing position. Once they are outside, they are swift and, how shall we put this, reluctant to be captured. They have more tenacity than you do.

Many Chinese Cresteds are dominating the conformation, obedience, and agility worlds thanks to their exceptional athleticism. The Chinese Crested was once employed by Chinese traders as ratters on their ships, and it’s possible that they did the same thing in agricultural settings. Although they are loved as family pets today, they also possess the personality to be more than just well-cared-for dogs.

Highlights

• A small breed, Chinese Cresteds are suitable for many types of homes, including apartments.
• There is a genetic link between tooth loss and dominant hairlessness. It simply fits with the breed and is not an indication of “bad breeding.”
• On walks or in the yard, a Chinese Crested should never be left unattended. Due to his small size, big dogs might mistake him for prey. He can easily jump even high fences and pass through them to get away.
• Even though Chinese Cresteds get along well with kids, you should consider the kids’ ages and personalities before getting one of these dogs. Due to their small size, they are easily hurt.
• You might be drawn to a Chinese Crested because of his exotic appearance, but be aware that they can be just as temperamental as other dogs, if not more so than some.
• They are stubborn in some ways.
• Chinese Cresteds have a guard dog-like bark and demeanor. Look elsewhere if you want a quieter breed.
• Chinese Cresteds are companion dogs who favor spending time with their families and owners. They cannot be left outside on their own and, if left alone, will climb and dig to get away from their owners. They may also experience separation anxiety, which can make them destructive if left alone for an extended period of time.
• Because they can develop social anxiety, the Chinese Crested must be properly socialized.
• Chinese Cresteds shed little to no hair and keep themselves relatively tidy.
• Never purchase a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, a puppy mill, or a pet shop if you want a healthy dog. Find a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to ensure that they are healthy and free of genetic diseases that they could pass on to the puppies.

History

Chinese Crested dogs are not actually Chinese. They originated from African or Mexican (no one is sure which) hairless dogs that the Chinese bred smaller. The Crested (which can still be found today in port cities all over the world) is thought to have traveled with Chinese sailors on the high seas as early as 1530, hunting vermin during and between periods of plague.

Cresteds started to appear in numerous European paintings and prints by the middle of the 19th century. The Crested has also gone by the names Chinese Hairless, Chinese Edible Dog, Chinese Ship Dog, and Chinese Royal Hairless in the past. The dog was bred by the Chinese for use on their ships, where it excelled at ratting, and sailors traded them at various ports.

As early as the 1700s, when European tourists visited Chinese seaports and boarded Chinese trading vessels, records of a hairless dog that closely resembled the Chinese Crested can be found. Chinese Cresteds were reportedly used as living heating pads and believed to have magical healing abilities. They were kept both by sailors and by Chinese emperors. Although the exact date of the breed’s arrival in North America is unknown, the first breed club was established here in 1974. The breed has become rare in China.

Size

For both sexes, a Chinese Crested’s average height ranges from 11 to 13 inches. Typically, they can weigh up to 12 pounds.

Personality

The Crested loves and adores his people, and he is alert and cheerful. This happy, loving little guy will give you lots of kisses and lap time. Recognize that he doesn’t readily accept strangers, but that once he falls in love with you, you become his world. He is extremely intelligent and makes a great friend.

Be aware, though, that because they don’t fit the typical dog personality profile, many dog trainers unfairly give them low intelligence ratings. For insensitive trainers, the Crested is not a breed to choose. The Chinese Crested is prone to being obstinate. He has a strong bond with his immediate pack and is extremely social. Since most Cresteds are inherently wary of strangers, it is more common for them to be aloof than friendly.

Because of his high social drive and tendency to be reactive, he can come off as needy. He gets along great with friends, but if not socialized and trained to control the urge, he might bite strangers. While the burglar won’t be terrified, he will bark to protect his house. Although he isn’t particularly yappy, he is adamant about performing his guard duty and will.

Other people enjoy singing or howling. Numerous elements, including training, socialization, and heredity, have an impact on temperament. Puppies with good dispositions are curious and playful, approachable, and eager to be cuddled. Select a puppy that is in the middle of the pack rather than one that is bullying its littermates or hiding in a corner.

Always meet at least one parent to make sure they are pleasant and comfortable around you. Usually, the mother is the one who is available. It’s also beneficial to meet the parents’ siblings or other family members to get a sense of what the puppy will be like as an adult. The Crested needs early socialization, or exposure to a variety of people, sights, sounds, and experiences when they’re young, just like every other breed of dog.

In order to ensure that your Crested puppy develops into a well-rounded dog, socialization is important. He should start by enrolling in a kindergarten class for puppies. Regularly hosting guests, taking him to crowded parks, dog-friendly shops, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will all help him hone his social skills.

Health

Although cresteds are typically healthy, they are susceptible to some health issues like all breeds. Not all Cresteds will contract any or all of these illnesses, but if you’re thinking about getting one, you should be aware of them. Find a reputable breeder who will provide you with the health clearances for both of your puppy’s parents if you are purchasing a puppy.

Health certifications attest to a dog’s having undergone testing and being declared free of a specific ailment. For hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease, you should expect to see health certificates from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) with a fair or better score; for thrombopathia from Auburn University; and for normal eyesight from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF). You can check the OFA website (offa.org) to confirm health clearances.

• Dental problems: These frequently arise as a result of the genetic relationship between missing teeth and dominant hairlessness. The Powderpuff has typical toy breed dentition, while the Hairless Crested has small, peg-like teeth that may slope toward the front of the mouth and cause issues. By the tender age of two or three, The Hairless frequently lose many teeth. Some Hairless must eat canned food, while others—like the Powderpuff—can eat kibble without any issues.
• A group of eye conditions known as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) cause the retina to gradually deteriorate. Affected dogs initially develop night blindness; as the illness worsens, they begin to lose their daytime vision. Many affected dogs adjust to their diminished or lost vision well, as long as their environment doesn’t change.
• Hip joint-related condition Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. The blood supply to the head of the femur, which is the large rear leg bone, is reduced in Cresteds with Legg-Perthes, and the part of the femur that attaches to the pelvis starts to disintegrate. Typically, the first signs—a limp and muscle atrophy—appear when puppies are four to six months old. Surgery can treat the issue, usually leaving the puppy pain-free.
• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca: Also referred to as “dry eye,” this condition causes both dry eyes and inflammation. It happens when the water component of the tear film is deficient. The membranes only contain oil and mucus as the eye becomes dry. Conjunctivitis, which also has a gooey yellow discharge, can be mistaken for the symptoms. A Schirmer Tear Test is used to make the diagnosis. Eyedrops and ointments are frequently used as treatments.

Care

Although a Chinese Crested needs little physical activity and is not a good jogging partner, mental stimulation is crucial. He can enjoy many of the toys and puzzles made specifically for dogs that are available on the market. Although Chinese Cresteds are typically simple to train, they do have a tendency to be stubborn, so patience is required.

The only option is positive reinforcement, and since the breed can be timid by nature, correction must be administered delicately. Finding a facility that offers separate small-dog puppy classes will help your Crested get the necessary socialization with other dogs of the same size. He might get hurt if he plays with a bigger puppy.

Every dog benefits from crate training, and it’s a considerate way to make sure your Crested doesn’t soil the house or get into inappropriate situations. He can also find refuge in a crate for a nap. If your Crested ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized, having received early crate training will make it easier for him to accept confinement.

But never leave your Chinese Crested dog alone in a crate all day. He shouldn’t stay there for more than a few hours at a time, unless he’s sleeping at night, as it’s not a jail. He should not live his entire life confined to a crate or kennel because he is a people dog. As a group, toy breeds can be challenging to housetrain, which can be one of the more challenging aspects of training the Chinese Crested. However, eventually everything will fall into place.

Feeding

Recommended daily intake: 1/4 to 1 cup of premium dry food, spread out over two meals. Note: Your adult dog’s appetite is influenced by his size, age, build, metabolism, and level of activity. Like people, each dog is unique, so they don’t all require the same amount of food. A highly active dog will require more than a couch potato dog, which should almost go without saying.

The kind of dog food you purchase also matters; the better the food, the more effectively it will nourish your dog and the less you will need to shake into the bowl. Instead of leaving food out all the time, keep your Crested in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day. Give him the hands-on and eye tests if you’re not sure if he’s obese. Look down at him first.

There should be a waist visible. After that, lay your hands on his back with your thumbs along his spine and your fingers spread outward. Without exerting much pressure, you should be able to feel his ribs but not see them. He needs less food and more exercise if you can’t. See our recommendations for selecting the best food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog for more information on how to feed your Crested.

Coat Design and Maintenance

All colors and color combinations—including mahogany, blue, lavender, and copper—are used for powderpuff coats. They might be spotted or solid. The Hairless have pink and black skin tones. Maybe the fundamental nakedness of the Hairless is what attracted stripper Gypsy Rose Lee to breeding them. The head, feet, and tail of the hairless Chinese Crested are covered in soft, flowing hair.

To protect the skin, body hair should be shaved. Avoid using moisturizers or sunblock; let your skin be its natural state. A good shampoo should be used frequently when bathing The Hairless. While grooming him, look for any blackheads because he may be prone to small skin issues like acne. Grooming Powderpuff Cresteds requires a lot of effort.

They have a silky double coat, and if the dog isn’t regularly groomed, the undercoat, which is thick, will mat. A face-shaving option is available. Except for the time when the puppy hair is transitioning into adult hair, when brushing is best done daily, the Powderpuff requires weekly brushing. Best is a pin or bristle brush. Work out all mats and take out any “felting” that may have developed between the foot pads.

Powderpuffs need to use a high-quality shampoo to prevent robbing their hair and skin of essential oils. They should bathe frequently, though not as frequently as the Hairless. To avoid the dog becoming overdried or becoming too cold, it should be toweled off and blow dried (at a very low temperature). Start early with your Crested’s grooming.

By grooming your dog, you have the chance to develop a relationship with your new puppy and look for any symptoms of illness. When the dog reaches adulthood, you’ll discover that veterinary visits and grooming sessions will be simple and enjoyable tasks if you make them a positive experience. The majority of grooming services are offered at your neighborhood pet salon, but if you’re hesitant or uneasy about performing any of them yourself, especially shaving, you should get professional assistance.

Dental problems can affect either variety, but the Hairless is more likely to experience them. To get rid of tartar buildup and the bacteria that live inside it, he brushes his teeth at least twice or three times per week. Even better than twice-daily brushing is prevention of bad breath and gum disease. If your dog doesn’t wear his nails down naturally, trim them once or twice a month to avoid painful tears and other issues.

They are too long if you can hear them clicking on the floor. Because dog toenails contain blood vessels, cutting them too short can result in bleeding, which may make your dog uncooperative the next time the nail clippers are pulled out. Therefore, seek advice from a veterinarian or groomer if you are unfamiliar with trimming dog nails.

Every week, you should check his ears for redness or an unpleasant smell that could be an infection. To help prevent infections, clean your dog’s ears when you check them with a cotton ball dampened with a mild, pH-balanced ear cleaner. Simply clean the outer ear; avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. When your Crested is a puppy, start preparing him for being brushed and examined.

Dogs are sensitive when it comes to their feet, so handle his paws frequently and examine his mouth. Lay the groundwork for simple veterinary exams and other handling when he’s an adult by making grooming a rewarding experience filled with praise and rewards. Check your pet’s feet, nose, mouth, eyes, and skin for sores, rashes, or infection-related symptoms like redness, tenderness, or inflammation as you groom them. Clear eyes without any redness or discharge are ideal. You can identify potential health issues early on thanks to your thorough weekly exam.

Kids and other animals

Chinese Crested adores gentle, sweet children. Children need to be old enough to comprehend the need for caution when handling these tiny dogs. In order to prevent biting or ear or tail pulling on either party, you should always teach kids how to approach and touch dogs. You should also always supervise any interactions between young children and dogs.

Teach your child to never try to steal a dog’s food or approach a dog while he or she is eating or sleeping. Regardless of how friendly they are, dogs and children should never be left unattended. Cresteds enjoy playing with and are friendly to other animals.

Rescue Teams

Chinese Cresteds are frequently bought by people who have no real idea what it takes to own one. Numerous Chinese Cresteds need to be adopted or fostered. We have not included all of the rescues that have occurred. Contact the national breed club or a local breed club to find a Crested rescue if you can’t find one listed for your region.

Creator: PetsCareTip