They're sexy and they know it.

The Chinese Crested is stunning, head turning breed. They come in two different varieties; hairless and powder puff. The Hairless Chinese Crested has fur only on their feet, head and tail. The Powder puff has a long, soft coat over their entire body. The Hairless variety has always been a lot more popular with some breeders claiming the powder puff is worthless in comparison, for this reason many people are unaware of the Powder puff’s existence.
The Chinese Crested’s skin and coat can be any colour, mixed, spotted or coloured and both the Powder Puff and Hairless can be born in the same litter together.


They originated in Africa and were known as ‘African Hairless Terriers.’ They were used to hunt vermin on Chinese trading ships that would stop along the African shores, it was then they were named the ‘Chinese Crested.’ Ancient Native American tribes were known for using them as bed warmers and also used them as a source of food. Their numbers dwindled and in 1965 there were very little Chinese Crested’s still around and their eligibility to be show dogs was dropped. Their first American breed club was established in 1965 and to this day they are still shown in rare breed dog shows.

Although today the Chinese Crested are the most popular of the hairless breeds, they are still considered a rare breed of dog. They are an extremely alert and charming breed and full of personality. They are very affectionate and are great with children, as long as they are handled carefully, as their skin is quite exposed they can become injured easily. An easy mistake made with this breed is that they become humanised and babied too much. They need to be exposed to loud noises and new environments from a young age and know that you are their pack leader from the start. Although it can be ‘cute’ to baby our smaller pets, this leads to unwanted behavior and sends the wrong signals to your dog. They are a very intelligent breed and are great for performing tricks. They are ideal for family homes but are great companions for anyone. The Hairless variety rarely malts so are perfect for any allergy suffers and the only maintenance they really require is their skin to be oiled and bathed as necessary. The Powder Puff’s under coat can matt easily so requires daily brushing though both varieties do not let off any kind of ‘doggy odor.’

Size can be deceiving when it comes to these little creatures. Not only are they bursting with personality they’re also extremely active for their size. Daily walks are essential and plenty of play is needed to keep their mind stimulated. Boredom can easily come on and this is when destructive behavior will start. They like a nice large area to run and play in so would only suite apartment living if daily exercise is guaranteed. They cope well in the warmer weather but a coat is recommended for the cooler weather.

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