The Chinese Crested is a fascinating hairless breed of dog that makes a wonderful companion pet. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at this unique dog.
The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties – the Hairless and the Powderpuff. Both varieties are small, fine-boned dogs weighing 10-13 pounds. They have a long, elegant neck, almond-shaped eyes, and large, erect ears. The Hairless variety has soft, smooth skin, while the Powderpuff has a soft, thick coat.
Overview of the Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested originated in Africa and was brought to China, hence its name. It was popularized in Chinese ports as ratters before making its way to Europe in the 1500s.
This breed is highly affectionate, playful and thrives on being with their family. They’re alert and lively while also enjoying cuddling up in laps or on furniture. The Chinese Crested is intelligent and generally easy to train.
Pros
- Affectionate and enjoys human companionship
- Playful and entertaining
- Intelligent and trainable
- Minimal shedding
- Long lifespan of 14-16 years
Cons
- Susceptible to skin issues if not cared for properly
- Sensitive to cold temperatures
- Separation anxiety is common
Pros and Cons of Owning a Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested can make a wonderful pet for an owner who is prepared to properly care for them. Here are some of the key pros and cons of owning this breed:
Pros
- Extremely affectionate and bonds strongly with family
- Minimal shedding and dander
- Playful, entertaining personality
- Long lifespan compared to many breeds
Cons
- Susceptible to sunburns and skin irritations
- Need sunscreen before going outdoors
- Prone to dental issues like overcrowded teeth
- Separation anxiety is common
Similar Breeds
Some breeds with comparable attributes to the Chinese Crested:
- Italian Greyhound – Small-sized, minimal shedding, needs coat protection
- Basenji – Alert, affectionate, high energy
- Chihuahua – Small-framed, devotion to owners, long lifespan
Advice for Owning a Chinese Crested
Owning this unique breed takes some special consideration. Here is some top advice for caring for a Chinese Crested dog:
Grooming
- Bathe regularly using moisturizing shampoo
- Apply sunscreen before outdoor activities
- Gently clean inside and around ears
- Brush powderpuff variety weekly
Exercise
- 30-60 minutes of activity per day
- Sensitive to heat – monitor playtime on hot days
- Enjoy activities like agility, jogging, interactive games
Living Conditions
- Need access to climate-controlled areas
- Should sleep indoors with family
- May need dog sweaters for cold weather outings
Opinions About Owning Chinese Cresteds
Here are some first-hand opinions of life with a Chinese Crested from real owners:
“Potter is so affectionate – he wants to cuddle and give kisses all day long. He loves being involved in whatever we’re doing and is very clever at figuring out how to get our attention!”
“We weren’t prepared for how sensitive Ming’s skin would be. It has taken some trial and error to find shampoos that moisturize her properly and are gentle enough for frequent bathing.”
“My friend talked non-stop about getting a Chinese Crested and how great they were, but I don’t think she emphasized enough just how much attention they need from you to thrive.””I knew Chessie would need some extra care when we decided to get her, but I didn’t expect the amount of time I’d be vacuuming and lint-rolling!”
Comparisons to Similar Breeds
How does the Chinese Crested compare to other popular small dog breeds? Here are some key comparisons:
Versus Chihuahua
- Both minimal shedding, but Chihuahuas have a coat to help regulate body temperature better
- Chihuahuas bark more frequently and can be more high strung
- Chinese Cresteds often have fewer genetic disorders
Versus Italian Greyhound
- Both part of the sighthound group, with similarly slim frames and athleticism
- The Italian Greyhound has a short, fawn-colored coat offering temperature regulation
- Chinese Cresteds bond more strongly and crave constant human interaction
Versus Pug
- Both good companion dogs but the stockier Pug tolerates being alone better
- The brachycephalic (smushed-faced) Pug is prone to more breathing issues
- Chinese Cresteds are more agile and have a longer average lifespan
When compared to other breeds, the Chinese Cresteds have some clear advantages but also require more specialized care.
Conclusion
The Chinese Crested is a one-of-a-kind companion breed. When properly cared for, they make intensely devoted and entertaining pets. Ensure you can provide for their grooming and temperature regulation needs before bringing one home. But for the right owner, a Chinese Crested promises to be a fun and affectionate pet.