Dog breed profile
Chinese crested
A detailed profile covering characteristics, everyday care and linked health conditions.
Quick facts
Typical guide only; individual needs vary.
Profile description
The Chinese Crested is a small companion breed that occurs in two varieties: the Hairless, which has exposed skin with hair on the head, feet and tail, and the Powderpuff, which has a full, soft double coat. Most adults stand around 28 to 33 centimetres tall and weigh approximately 3.5 to 5.5 kilograms. Despite its name, the breed’s exact historical development is uncertain, although hairless dogs were carried on ships and used to control vermin in several parts of the world.
Chinese Cresteds are generally affectionate, lively, sensitive and strongly attached to their owners. They often enjoy close physical contact and may follow family members throughout the home. The breed can be playful and athletic but is usually satisfied with moderate exercise. Some individuals are cautious around strangers or become anxious when left alone for long periods.
Their small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling and accidental injury. Hairless dogs require special skin care and protection from sun, cold and physical damage, while Powderpuffs require regular grooming to prevent matting. Both varieties may have dental abnormalities, although these are particularly common in Hairless dogs. This breed generally suits owners who can provide close companionship, gentle training, careful grooming and protection from environmental extremes. The Chinese crested's typical affectionate, athletic, gentle qualities are most constructive when household rules are predictable and desirable behaviour receives regular reinforcement.
Before choosing a Chinese crested, prospective owners should consider adult temperament, activity and handling needs as well as appearance. Living space alone does not determine suitability for a Chinese crested; access to companionship, purposeful activity, rest and consistent handling is more important than the size of the property.
First-time dog owner tips
Practical preparation for welcoming this breed into your home.
Care requirements
Routine Chinese crested care combines moderate daily exercise, gentle training and coat or skin care appropriate to its variety. Several short walks, indoor games and trick-training sessions are usually sufficient. A harness may be more comfortable than a collar for some individuals. Early Chinese crested training should combine positive reinforcement and patience with a predictable toilet routine.
Puppies should gradually learn to remain alone calmly to reduce separation-related distress. Hairless dogs should be bathed gently as needed and their skin monitored for dryness, blocked pores, irritation or infection. Only veterinarian-approved moisturisers and sun protection products should be used. Clothing may be needed in cold weather, but garments must remain clean and should not rub the skin.
Powderpuffs require brushing and combing several times a week, with particular attention behind the ears and beneath the legs. Teeth should be brushed daily because missing, crowded or poorly formed teeth are common. Nails require regular trimming, and eyes and ears should be checked routinely. Measure the Chinese crested's food against actual workload and reassess portions after growth, desexing, illness or a change in activity rather than relying indefinitely on the packet guide. A monthly weight or body-condition record makes gradual change in a Chinese crested easier to detect than appearance alone, particularly when day-to-day familiarity masks a slow trend.
A complete diet should be measured to maintain a healthy weight. Regular veterinary care should monitor dental health, knees, eyes, skin and heart function. The dog should be protected from rough play, falls, sunburn and temperature extremes. Preventive planning for the Chinese crested should reflect family history and give particular attention to mobility and joint comfort, eye comfort and vision, without assuming that a breed association means an individual dog is affected. Owners should establish the Chinese crested's normal appetite, breathing, movement, sleep and social behaviour so a persistent departure from that baseline can be investigated promptly.
Conditions linked to this breed
Intervertebral Disc Disease IVDD
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Primary Lens Luxation
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy Generalised
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General dog health conditions
These conditions can affect dogs generally and are not presented as conditions specifically associated with this breed.
Cataract [Cloudiness of the Lens of the Eye]
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Diabetes Mellitus
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Hypothyroidism
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Otitis Externa (Ear Infections)
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Pancreatitis
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