Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested Behavior and Temperment
| Indoor Activity | Outdoor Activity | Vigor | Consistant Behavior |
| Dominance Strange Dogs | |
| Territorial | |
| Good With Children | |
| Good With Strangers |
Introduction
The Chinese Crested is a unique and charming dog breed known for its distinctive appearance and affectionate nature. This small breed comes in two varieties: the Hairless, which has silky hair on its head, tail, and feet, and the Powderpuff, which is entirely covered in a soft, flowing coat. The Chinese Crested is beloved for its playful personality and strong bond with its owners, making it a popular choice as a companion dog. Despite its delicate appearance, the Chinese Crested is a lively and resilient breed that adapts well to various living environments.
History
The Chinese Crested has a long and somewhat mysterious history, with its origins believed to date back to ancient times. Despite its name, the breed's exact origins are not entirely clear, but it is widely thought to have been developed in China, where it was valued as a companion and a rat-catcher on ships. The Chinese Crested likely descended from African hairless dogs that were brought to China by traders. Over time, the breed was refined in China and spread to other parts of the world, particularly during the 19th century when European travelers encountered these unique dogs. The Chinese Crested gained popularity as an exotic pet in Europe and North America, and it was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991. Today, the breed is cherished for its unusual appearance and affectionate temperament.
Temperament
The Chinese Crested is known for its affectionate, playful, and sometimes mischievous temperament. These dogs are highly social and thrive on human companionship, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They are gentle and loving, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Chinese Cresteds are generally good with children and other pets, although they can be somewhat reserved or shy around strangers. Despite their small size, they are alert and can be surprisingly good watchdogs. The breed is intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train, although they may have a stubborn streak at times. Early socialization and positive reinforcement are key to raising a well-rounded Chinese Crested.
Physical Characteristics
The Chinese Crested is a small and elegant breed, characterized by its fine-boned structure and graceful appearance. The Hairless variety is the most famous, featuring smooth, hairless skin with tufts of silky hair on the head (known as the "crest"), tail (referred to as the "plume"), and feet ("socks"). The Powderpuff variety, on the other hand, is covered in a soft, double coat of fur that gives it a very different but equally striking appearance. The breed's skin can be pink, black, or spotted, while the coat can come in a variety of colors and patterns. The Chinese Crested has a wedge-shaped head, large, erect ears, and almond-shaped eyes that convey an alert and lively expression. Despite their delicate appearance, they are well-balanced and agile dogs.
Size and Weight Comparison
| Gender | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 11-13 inches | 10-13 pounds |
| Female | 11-13 inches | 8-12 pounds |
Average Breed Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Chinese Crested is between 13 to 18 years, making it one of the longer-lived dog breeds. Generally healthy, Chinese Cresteds can be prone to certain health issues, such as dental problems, particularly in the Hairless variety due to their smaller and fewer teeth. Regular dental care, along with routine veterinary check-ups, is essential to maintaining the overall health of this breed. Due to their lack of fur in the Hairless variety, Chinese Cresteds are also sensitive to extreme temperatures and need to be protected from both sunburn and cold weather. With proper care and attention, Chinese Cresteds can enjoy a long, healthy life as a beloved family companion.