The Chinese Crested is a unique breed of dog that originally hails from China. It stands out for its hairless body, topped by a crest of hair on its head, and its friendly, protective and adventurous nature
The Chinese Crested is a medium-sized dog whose main characteristic is its completely hairless body apart from a crest of feathery hair on its head. They are athletic and elegant dogs with muscular and well-proportioned bodies. They range in height from twenty-five to thirty-three centimetres and can weigh between four and seven kilos.
You’ll find them in two charming varieties: the hairless, with its distinctive crest, fur on its lower legs (socks) and at the tip of the tail (plume), and the powder puff with its long, soft, shiny coat covering its whole body. Interestingly, both types often appear in the same litter. In both cases, their skin can be any colour and combination of colours, for example, white, with black patches, salt and pepper, or brown tones.
These dogs are loyal companions who shower their owners with affection and fiercely guard their family and home. However, they might initially be reserved or shy around new people and dogs. But their intelligence and trainability make them excellent candidates for learning socialisation to avoid excessive shyness and potential aggression. Exposure to different environments and people from an early age helps them blossom into confident, well-rounded pets. It’s worth noting that they can also be independent and stubborn at times. So, a firm, patient approach and positive reinforcement are key to training them.
Chinese Cresteds need daily walks and playtime sessions. They also benefit from plenty of physical and mental stimulation to avoid boredom and anxiety. Therefore, potential owners should ensure they have enough time to dedicate to their pups and be mindful that their furry (or fur-less) friends will not fare well being left alone for extended periods.
Providing a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial. Choose high-quality food based on their size, weight, and age to prevent obesity. Special care is required for the hairless variety, including sun protection or coat and regular brushing to maintain their elegant crest. Powder puffs need daily brushing as well. For both types, it’s essential to maintain good dental hygiene, making frequent brushing with dog-safe products a must.
