Breed of the Week - Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a Hairless dog with decorative trim! These small, affectionate dogs stand nine to thirteen inches in height, weigh twelve pounds or less and live approximately thirteen to fifteen years. That's a long life, and therefore, a HUGE doggie commitment. I have had mine for almost 12 years, and she's still acting like a pup! Although there is little information available on the origin of this breed, it is believed that they originally descended from African hairless dogs and were transported to Asia by traders. They were further developed by the Chinese, who bred them to be smaller in size and used them to hunt vermin. Chinese Cresteds first arrived in the United States in the nineteenth century, but were not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) until 1991.

In the 1920s, Debora Wood created the "Crest Haven" kennel and began to purposefully breed and record the lineages of her Chinese Crested dogs. The famous burlesque dancer, Gypsy Rose Lee, also bred Chinese Cresteds, and upon her death her dogs were incorporated into Crest Haven. These two lines were the true foundation of every Chinese Crested alive today. Ms. Wood also founded the American Hairless Dog Club in 1959, which was eventually incorporated into the American Chinese Crested Club (ACCC) in 1978.

Chinese Crested dogs come in two distinct varieties, Powderpuff, which is completely covered in hair, and Hairless which has hair on the head, tail and feet.

No Hair? No Care?
Even though the Hairless Chinese Crested does not have hair covering their entire body, they do in fact come in several colors. Their skin may be lilac, blue, gold, or pink. The skin is often spotted or dappled and tends to lighten in the winter and darken in the summer. Though this adorable pup does not have much hair, they do require special care. The Chinese Crested needs the same skin care that you would give to a small child (think cleansing and moisturizing). They also need plenty of sun protection (sun block) in the summer or their skin will burn. The hairless variety can also develop skin problems such as acne if their skin is not properly cared for. The hair that the Chinese Crested does have needs to be combed and clipped or it will become tangled and matted. If you are thinking of getting a hairless Chinese Crested because you want a dog that does not require coat care, think again! Skin care will take just as much time as grooming a coated dog.

The Powderpuff requires regular brushing of its straight, double coat and the muzzle is usually shaved every few weeks.

If you suffer from allergies and have always wanted a dog, the Chinese Crested may just be the perfect pet for you! Cresteds shed very little hair and are a recommended breed for allergy sufferers, even though no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

Chinese Cresteds truly love to be part of the family and adore children. They love to play! It must be noted, however, that this breed is quite dainty and delicate so small children should be taught how to play with and handle them (the Chinese Crested is definitely not suited for rough housing). As for training, well, they are quite intelligent but can be a challenge as the Chinese Crested has a mind of his own! They do not respond well to harsh training. I’ve found positive reinforcement to be more effective and, of course, food is a great motivator!

Couch Potato? No problem.
Short, frequent walks will keep your Chinese Crested, whether Hairless or Powderpuff, happy and satisfied and you sitting on the couch for long periods of time! Don't get me wrong, this breed enjoys long walks, however, they are not required in order for him to thrive.

As for medical problems, the Chinese Crested, particularly the Hairless variety, is prone to skin issues and allergies which include wool and lanolin. Major health concerns are mostly eye related such as, glaucoma, lens luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which will eventually lead to blindness. Cresteds can develop dislocated knee-caps (Patellar luxation), which is common in Toy breeds. Legg-Perthes disease is a concern within the Chinese Crested Breed. Legg-Perthes caused by the disruption of the blood flow to the head of the femur resulting in a deformed femur.

The Hairless variety is prone to missing or crowded teeth, thinner enamel and are more likely to lose their teeth. Overall, Chinese Cresteds are a healthy, sturdy breed.

Inherited health issues within a breed are one of the important reason’s to find a responsible breeder who tests their breeding stock. More information can be obtained from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and Canine Health Information Center.

If you are interested in owning a dog that is loyal, affectionate, intelligent, gentle, entertaining and odor free, then the Chinese Crested is worth checking out! Though hairless isn't for everyone, just remember - bald is beautiful - and all dogs need love and deserve forever, loving homes! If you want to add a Chinese Crested to your family, please consider adoption. There are several Chinese Crested rescue groups in the United States. Visit AKC.org or the national parent club, American Chinese Crested Club to find rescue organizations.

Looking for Apparel, Décor, jewelry and gifts featuring the Chinese Crested? Visit Cherrybrook.com and select Shop by Breed.

by Teresa Faria