Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a lively little companion with a big personality and an even bigger talent for cuddling.
Best known for its mostly hairless look with a soft crest, it also comes as the fully coated powderpuff, and both varieties thrive when they can stay close to their favorite people.
How the Chinese Crested ranks among other dog breeds.
About the Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are typically affectionate, bright, and deeply people oriented. They tend to bond closely with their household, enjoying lap time as much as they enjoy a quick game or a brisk stroll.
In a calm home they can be surprisingly adaptable, but they do best when daily routines include attention, gentle training, and a little play.
Because the breed can be hairless or powderpuff, care needs vary, especially when it comes to grooming and skin or coat maintenance. Many owners love that the hairless variety leaves very little hair around the house, but it is not a zero maintenance dog.
Thoughtful socialization helps prevent shyness, and a warm bed, cozy clothing in cold weather, and smart sun habits can make day to day life much easier.
History of the Chinese Crested
Hairless dogs have appeared in many parts of the world for centuries, often turning up wherever trade routes connected ports and marketplaces.
The Chinese Crested’s exact beginnings are still debated, but many historians believe the type developed from small hairless dogs that traveled with sailors and merchants.
As these dogs moved between regions, they were bred for a compact size, lively companionship, and a recognizable pattern of bare skin with soft furnishings.
The “Chinese” name likely reflects later development and popularity in Chinese port cities rather than a single point of origin.
Stories about the breed often center on seafaring life. Small dogs were useful on ships because they could hunt vermin in tight spaces, sound an alert when strangers approached, and provide companionship during long stretches at sea.
A hairless coat made them easy to spot and quick to dry, though owners still had to protect exposed skin from harsh weather and sun. When ships docked, the dogs were traded, gifted, or sold, helping spread the look and temperament to coastal communities.
As global travel expanded, hairless companion dogs began showing up in Europe and the Americas as curiosities and cherished pets.
Early descriptions vary, which is one reason the breed’s story is hard to pin down, but the crest, socks, and tail plume became a consistent theme.
With the rise of organized dog showing and companion breeding, enthusiasts started selecting for a more uniform outline, upright ears, and a confident, people friendly nature.
Over generations, the Chinese Crested became known less as a working ship dog and more as an indoor companion.
Like many uncommon breeds, the Chinese Crested went through periods when its numbers were quite small. A small circle of devoted owners kept the dogs going by sharing breeding stock, keeping careful records, and pairing dogs to preserve both type and temperament.
The powderpuff variety was never simply an afterthought; coated dogs are an important part of healthy breeding programs and broaden the breed’s appeal. This steady stewardship helped the Chinese Crested become more established and easier for families to find.
Today’s Chinese Crested is valued for devotion, humor, and an affectionate, snuggle ready style of companionship.
Both hairless and powderpuff dogs can appear in the same litter, and responsible breeding focuses on stable personalities and comfortable, functional structure.
Many modern owners enjoy the breed’s playful athletic streak, but they also respect its sensitivity to temperature and the need for ongoing skin or coat care.
When matched with an attentive home, the Chinese Crested tends to thrive as a bright, people centered family member.
Physical Characteristics and General Care
Chinese Cresteds are small, fine boned dogs with a graceful outline and an expressive face. The hairless variety has smooth skin with soft hair on the head, feet, and tail, while the powderpuff wears a light, silky coat that drapes over the body.
Ears are often upright, and the breed’s movement tends to look quick and nimble rather than heavy. Skin and coat colors can vary widely, and many dogs have a pleasantly warm, velvety feel when held.
General care depends on which variety you share your home with. Hairless dogs usually need gentle bathing, light moisturizing, and careful sun habits, since exposed skin can dry out or burn.
Powderpuffs need regular brushing and combing to prevent tangles, plus occasional trimming around the feet and face.
For both types, routine nail care, ear checks, and daily dental habits are especially helpful, and your veterinarian can suggest a simple plan that fits your dog.
Exercise needs are typically moderate. Most Chinese Cresteds are happy with a couple of short walks, some indoor play, and a little training time that keeps their brain busy.
They often enjoy learning tricks and can do well in low impact dog sports when introduced gradually. Because they are sensitive to weather, many owners adjust outdoor time for heat, cold, and bright sun.
Watch for signs of discomfort, offer soft bedding, and focus on steady, positive routines that build confidence and prevent clingy or anxious habits.
Coat & Grooming: Hairless dogs do best with gentle baths, a mild moisturizer, and dog safe sun protection, while powderpuffs need thorough brushing and combing several times a week plus occasional trims.
Shedding: Low overall, especially in hairless dogs; powderpuffs may shed lightly, so routine brushing helps keep loose hair off furniture.
Exercise Needs: Moderate daily activity such as short walks, indoor games, and brief training sessions usually keeps them content.
General Health: Common themes can include dental crowding or missing teeth, sensitive skin, and occasional eye or joint concerns; regular checkups help you stay ahead of issues.
Expected Lifespan: Typically long lived for a small companion breed, with many staying active well into their senior years when well cared for.
First-Time Owner Tips
For first time owners, the biggest key is consistency. Chinese Cresteds are smart and often eager to please, but they can be sensitive to tone and may shut down with harsh corrections.
Keep training upbeat and short, reward calm behavior, and start socialization early so new people, dogs, and everyday noises feel normal. House training can take patience, so use a predictable schedule, frequent outdoor breaks, and plenty of praise for success.
Before bringing one home, decide whether you prefer the hairless variety or the powderpuff, and plan your grooming routine right away. Hairless dogs may need help staying warm and protected from sun, while powderpuffs need brushing to prevent mats.
This breed often loves being with you, so practice gentle alone time with a crate or safe room to prevent separation stress. Finally, start dental care early and talk to your veterinarian about what is normal for your individual dog.
- Choose a simple grooming routine that matches your dog’s variety, including skin care for hairless dogs and brushing for powderpuffs.
- Use positive reinforcement and a soft voice; confidence grows fastest when training feels like a game.
- Plan for weather by providing shade, cozy layers, and indoor play options when conditions are uncomfortable.
- Build dental habits early with vet guided home care and regular wellness visits.
- Protect small joints by discouraging high jumps and using steps or ramps for couches and beds.
Monthly Costs to Expect
Required costs usually include quality food, routine parasite prevention as advised by your veterinarian, and basic supplies such as potty pads, a leash, and replacements for chew toys.
Hairless dogs may also need gentle shampoo and a basic moisturizer, while powderpuffs may go through brushes, combs, and detangling spray a bit faster.
Optional or variable costs depend on your choices and your location. Professional grooming can be occasional or frequent, training can range from group classes to private help, and some owners budget for clothing or sun gear.
Insurance is another choice, or you can set aside a monthly savings cushion for unexpected care. Costs vary with food quality, services in your area, and how much you do yourself at home.
Food & Treats: Required: about $25 to $70 per month, depending on food quality, treats, and activity level.
Grooming: Optional/Variable: about $15 to $90 per month for skin products and occasional grooming, with DIY often on the lower end.
Preventatives & Routine Care: Required: about $20 to $60 per month for routine preventatives and a basic wellness budget, varying by region and plan.
Insurance / Savings: Optional/Variable: about $0 to $70 per month for insurance or a dedicated savings cushion, based on coverage and budget.
Training / Enrichment: Optional/Variable: about $10 to $120 per month for classes, private sessions, and enrichment toys, depending on goals.
Chinese Crested FAQs
Do Chinese Cresteds come in more than one coat type?
Yes. The breed includes a mostly hairless variety with hair on the head, feet, and tail, and a fully coated powderpuff with a soft, flowing coat. The two can be born in the same litter, and their grooming needs are different.
Are Chinese Cresteds hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Hairless Chinese Cresteds often shed very little, which can help some people, but allergens can still come from dander and saliva. If allergies are a concern, spend time around the breed before committing.
How much grooming does a Chinese Crested need?
It depends on the variety. Hairless dogs need regular skin care and gentle bathing, while powderpuffs need consistent brushing and combing to prevent mats. Both benefit from routine nail trims, ear checks, and dental care.
Do Chinese Cresteds need sunscreen or sweaters?
Many hairless dogs benefit from sun protection and cozy layers in cold weather, and even powderpuffs may appreciate warmth in chilly climates. Choose dog safe products and comfortable clothing, and ask your veterinarian if you are unsure what to use.
Are they easy to train?
They are usually quick learners, especially with rewards and short sessions. Because they can be sensitive, gentle handling and a calm routine work better than firm corrections. Some individuals need extra patience with house training.
Do Chinese Cresteds bark a lot?
They can be alert and may bark at new sounds or visitors, but they are not always noisy. Early socialization, enough daily activity, and teaching a quiet cue can reduce nuisance barking.
What kind of exercise is best for a Chinese Crested?
Most do well with short walks, indoor play, and puzzle style enrichment that keeps them engaged. Adjust outdoor time for heat, cold, and bright sun, and build endurance gradually. When in doubt, your veterinarian can help you choose a safe routine.
