SmallChina

Chinese Crested

"Graceful and devoted, the Chinese Crested is a unique companion known for its affectionate personality, striking looks, and surprising agility in a small package."

Your Height:

180 cm

Shoulder Height: 31 cm

Age13-15 years

Average life expectancy with species-appropriate husbandry and good health.

Height

Shoulder Height: 28-33cmHead Height: ~43cm (est.)

The standard size measured from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder (withers).

Weight2.3-5.4 kg

Ideal body weight for a healthy, adult breed.

Cost/Month€35+

The sum of food, insurance, and basic care per month.

Character Profile

Activity Level

A measure of the daily urge to move and the necessary mental stimulation.

A lively dog that enjoys interactive play but is also perfectly content relaxing on the sofa.

Trainability

The willingness of the breed to cooperate with humans and learn commands quickly.

Sensitive to harsh training methods but responds very well to positive reinforcement.

Family Friendliness

Describes patience and adaptability when dealing with children and family bustle.

Very affectionate and loyal, though their small, fragile size requires careful handling by children.

Sociability

Behavior towards strangers and other dogs/pets.

Can be reserved or wary around strangers initially, but warms up if properly socialized.

Beginner Friendly

Indicates how well the breed is suited for first-time owners without much experience.

Generally a good choice for beginners, provided they are prepared for the specific grooming and skin care needs.

Apartment Friendly

Considers barking behavior, space requirements, and the general need for rest indoors.

Ideal for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise requirements.

Grooming Effort

Time required for brushing, bathing, and nail care. Long-haired breeds often need daily care.

The hairless variety needs skin protection (sunscreen, lotion), while the powderpuff requires regular brushing.

Shedding

How much loose hair the breed loses in the house. Important for allergy sufferers and cleaning effort.

Virtually non-shedding, making them a popular choice for people with mild allergies.

Did you know?

Keeping a pet of this size costs over 80€ per month on average. Plan your finances wisely.

Character & Training

The Chinese Crested is an intensely devoted companion, often described as a 'Velcro dog' for its desire to stay close to owners. Beyond its delicate looks, it is surprisingly spirited and alert. Training should be gentle yet consistent, as this breed responds best to positive encouragement. They possess a playful nature and a keen intelligence, making them excellent candidates for learning complex tricks or participating in lightweight canine sports like agility.

Living & Exercise

Highly adaptable, the Crested thrives in both city apartments and suburban homes. While not a high-intensity athlete, they enjoy daily walks and interactive play to stay mentally sharp. Owners must be mindful of the elements; their skin requires protection from UV rays in summer and insulation against the cold in winter. Due to their social nature, they prefer environments where they aren't left alone for long, as human companionship is vital to their happiness.

Health & Grooming

Known for their impressive longevity, they do require specialized maintenance. The Hairless variety needs routine skin care to prevent acne, while the Powderpuff demands frequent brushing to avoid matting. Genetic health screens for eye conditions (PRA/PLL) and patellar luxation are recommended. Notably, the hairless gene is often linked to dental irregularities, necessitating early and consistent oral hygiene practices. With proper care, these dogs often remain active and healthy well into their teens.

History

Likely descending from ancient African or Mexican hairless breeds, these dogs were refined in China after being brought there by traders. On Chinese merchant ships, they served as vital rat-catchers, valued for their agility and lack of flea-harboring fur. By the mid-19th century, the breed gained popularity in Europe and America, transitioning from a seafaring worker to a sophisticated show dog and cherished household pet known for its unique elegance and charm.

Similar Breeds

Based on character, activity level, and grooming needs – not by appearance.