About The Breed



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AKC Chinese Crested Standard

The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties. The Hairless variety has hair on the head (called the crest), feet (socks) and tail (plume). The Powderpuff variety is completely covered with hair. Although they look different, they are the same breed and can be born in the same litter.

The Hairless variety is born with virtually no hair. However, depending on the individual dog, they can have varying degrees of 'body hair'. The Powderpuff variety will NOT lose its hair. They are born fully coated and their hair grows longer as they mature. There is very little shedding even with the Powderpuff variety, which makes them a good candidate for people with allergies. Many show exhibitors will trim the hair from the face and/or ears on both varieties to present a neater appearance.

Cresteds love to play and will frequently invent their own games. They should always be kept on a leash when enjoying a walk outdoors. While they do not require a lot of room, a secure fenced yard is recommended.

The Hairless variety does require regular bathing to help prevent skin irrtations and acne. The lighter colored Hairless can sunburn, so a mild sunscreen can be used. Some Hairless are also sensitive to products containing lanolin or wool.

The Powderpuff coat can vary in texture and length, but they will still require regular brushing and routine bathing to help maintain a healthy, matte-free coat.

Many ask if they can make money breeding Chinese Cresteds - NO, but you can go broke! As with any other breed, there are more Chinese Cresteds available than there are good homes. Unless you are showing your dog, you should spay or neuter it. Even if you do show your dog and it's good enough to become a Champion, this does not mean that it should be bred. Responsible breeders spend a lot of money showing their dogs and a lot of time researching pedigrees for a thorough knowledge of hidden faults. A great deal of energy is put into caring for and socializing puppies, and a good breeder is committed to every puppy they produce for its lifetime and will only breed to produce a better dog. There are no shortcuts to healthy, happy puppies.

The ease of housetraining varies with each individual dog. Using proper techniques and a little effort on the owners part, a puppy can be housetrained with few accidents. Develop a workable schedule and stick to it.

The Hairless Chinese Crested often does not have full dentition but this rarely effects their ability to eat dry kibble. Chinese Crested can be real 'chow hounds' and you may need to monitor their food intake. Many Chinese Cresteds are inherent 'smilers', and will smile at you when they are happy or when they know they have been naughty.

If a Chinese Crested shivers, it may just mean he is nervous or excited. However, the Hairless variety will require a sweater in extremely cold weather.

Chinese Cresteds are not normally a yappy breed. However they will bark to protect their home or to alert their owner. When they get upset they might even howl and some can be trained to 'sing' on command.

Most Chinese Cresteds love people, including children. However, children must be instructed how to treat the dog with proper respect.

In a Nutshell - The Chinese Crested is a happy, loving little dog that desires nothing more than to snuggle in your lap or give you kisses. If you are looking for a small dog (10-12 pounds fully grown) to share your home and be a part of your family, then the Chinese Crested may be right for you.

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