Chinese Crested
Also known as: Crested, Puff
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
8-12 lbs
Height (Male)
11-13 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Chinese Crested is an exotic toy breed that comes in two dramatic varieties: the Hairless with silky hair on head, tail, and feet, and the Powderpuff with a full, soft coat. Both are devoted, playful companions.
History
Despite the name, likely originated in Africa and was developed by Chinese sailors who used them as ratters on ships. Spread globally through Chinese trade routes. Come in Hairless and Powderpuff varieties. AKC recognized in 1991.
Appearance
A fine-boned, elegant toy dog. The Hairless variety has soft, smooth skin with flowing hair (crest) on head, plume on tail, and socks on feet. The Powderpuff has a full double coat. Both have an alert, graceful appearance.
Temperament
Affectionate, playful, and devoted. Chinese Cresteds are velcro dogs that want to be with their people always. They are gentle, sensitive, and loving. Hairless and Powderpuff share the same sweet temperament.
Personality Around Others
Extremely attached to family. Sensitive and gentle. Good with older children. Can be wary of strangers. Separation anxiety prone.
Exercise Needs
Low exercise needs. Short walks and indoor play. Enjoy gentle activities. Not outdoor adventure dogs.
Training
Eager to please and trainable. Sensitive—only positive methods. Quick learners. Enjoy trick training.
Grooming
Hairless: sun protection, moisturizing, acne prevention. Powderpuff: daily brushing. Both need regular dental care.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Dental issues are common—many hairless dogs have missing or crowded teeth. Skin care needed for hairless variety.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patellar Evaluation
- PRA DNA Test
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$500-$1,000
Nutrition
Quality toy-breed food. Dental-friendly diet. Small portions twice daily. Dental care is critical.
Living Environment
Perfect apartment dogs. Need climate control. Indoor dogs only. Gentle with companions.
Ideal Family
Devoted owners wanting a close companion. Those who enjoy grooming/skin care. Not for outdoor-focused families.
Intelligence
Quick to learn. Eager to please. Excel at agility and trick training. Sensitive to owner's mood.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Generally quiet dogs. May bark when anxious. Not excessive barkers.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Hairless variety has no coat to shed. Powderpuff sheds minimally with regular grooming.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Come in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff—both can appear in the same litter
Often win the World's Ugliest Dog Contest (and are proud of it!)
Were used as ratters on Chinese trading ships
Their body temperature is slightly higher than most dogs
Powderpuff puppies carry the gene for hairlessness
Famous Dogs
Sam
Won the World's Ugliest Dog Contest three years in a row, becoming a beloved celebrity
Mugly
A Chinese Crested who won the World's Ugliest Dog Contest and became a therapy dog
Common Myths
"Hairless dogs are hypoallergenic and maintenance-free"
Hairless Cresteds need extensive skin care—sunscreen, moisturizer, acne treatment, and regular baths
"They're from China"
Despite their name, they likely originated in Africa and were developed by Chinese sailors on trade ships
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they need sunscreen?
Yes—hairless variety needs dog-safe sunscreen when outdoors. Their exposed skin is prone to sunburn.
Why do they have different varieties?
The hairless gene is incomplete dominant—every litter can produce both hairless and powderpuff puppies.
Puppy Guide
Both varieties need early socialization. Hairless puppies need skin care routine from the start.
Senior Care
Senior Cresteds are devoted companions. Dental care critical. Skin care continues. Gentle exercise.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$13,000-$20,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Devoted companion
Great apartment dog
Non-shedding (hairless)
Unique appearance
Long lifespan
Cons
Needs skin care
Dental problems common
Separation anxiety
Fragile
Needs climate control