Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested dog

Distinctive companion found in both hairless and fully coated Powderpuff varieties.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Toy 8 - 12 lbs 11 - 13 inches 13 - 18 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: China



Own a Chinese Crested? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Chinese Crested? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.

The exact origin of the Chinese Crested is difficult to document, and despite its name, its earliest ancestry was probably not exclusively Chinese. Hairless dogs appeared in several parts of the world, and dogs related to African hairless types are often proposed as contributors to the breed. Chinese sailors are traditionally credited with keeping small hairless dogs aboard ships, where they could serve as companions and help control rats. Trade routes may have carried these dogs to ports around the world. By the 19th century, dogs identified as Chinese Cresteds were appearing in Western exhibitions and accounts. The breed later gained important supporters in the United States, including entertainer Gypsy Rose Lee, whose dogs influenced American breeding programs. One unusual feature is that both hairless and fully coated dogs can occur in the same breed. The coated form is known as the Powderpuff and carries a long, soft coat, while hairless dogs typically retain hair on the head, feet, and tail. The difference results from the genetics responsible for hairlessness rather than representing two separate breeds. Modern Chinese Cresteds are primarily companions, with an appearance unlike almost any other recognized dog.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is generally considered hypoallergenic, but no dog is completely allergen-free. Individual reactions can vary.

The Chinese Crested tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The Chinese Crested generally needs a moderate amount of routine grooming.

The Chinese Crested generally has a lower energy level and may prefer a calmer routine.

The Chinese Crested generally has lower exercise needs, though daily activity remains important.

The Chinese Crested is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The Chinese Crested generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The Chinese Crested may get along with other dogs with appropriate socialization and introductions.

The Chinese Crested is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Chinese Crested generally tends to adapt well to apartment living when its exercise and enrichment needs are met.