Chinese Crested Dog

The Chinese Crested Dog is a small-ish breed (10-13lbs) of dog known for its unusual appearance. It a member of the toy dog group, and is available in two types: The Hairless, and the Powderpuff.

Appearance

On first glance, one would think they are looking at two totally different breeds of dog. It is in fact, the same dog, a Chinese Crested Dog. Coming in two varieties, the Hairless and Powderpuff, the Hairless are the more popular variety of Chinese Crested, known for their lack of a fur coat. Instead, they have a soft, humanlike skin that is unusual to the touch, though they do have tufts of fur on their paws ("socks") and tail ("plume") and long, wavy hair on their heads ("crest"). Fur on the muzzle, known as a beard, is not uncommon. Their skin comes in a variety of colours, ranging from a pale flesh to black, and is often mottled. Hairless cresteds often lack a full set of teeth. The Hairless gene is dominant and the Powderpuff gene recessive. All Hairless Cresteds have both genes, and therefore the Powderpuff cannot be bred out, as lack of this gene is fatal. The Powderpuff shares the crest and build of the Hairless, but has a full coat of long hair in addition. The look of the Powderpuff varies, according to how it is groomed. When it's fur is completely grown out on it's face, it strongly resembles a terrier, however the Powderpuff is usually shaved around the snout as a standard cut. It's fur is incredibly soft, and shedding is very minimal. Due to its coat type, the Powderpuff or Hairless are considered good pets for allergy sufferers.

Temperament

Chinese Cresteds are affectionate, energetic, and playful. They are known to be great family pets, and have endearing personalities. They are known to be great with respectful children. Some are known "singers", while others are known to "smile". They are generally happy lap dogs with candid personalities.

Health

The Hairless is susceptible to acne and sunburn. Maintenance of the skin is similar to maintaining human skin—moisturising cream can keep the skin from becoming too dry, and in fair-skinned cresteds, if one lives in a warm climate where there is a lot of sun (Australia, Spain, and so on) one should apply sunscreen to the dog's skin.

Overall, if one is prepared to give proper maintenance, attention, and care, a Chinese Crested can, barring accident or illness, live up to fifteen years.

History

Though associated with China since the 13th century, many believe it was originally brought there from Africa and others believe that it might be a cross of the Chihuahua and Mexican Hairless, the latter of which it resembles.

The Chinese Crested was officially recognised by the UK Kennel Club in 1981 and by the American Kennel Club in 1991.