Chinese Crested Dog Breed

The Chinese Crested dog breed is funny in that the hairless variety is composed of the most hideous canines I have ever laid eyes on, and the Powderpuff specimens can be absolutely beautiful. Hairlessness is not a trait exclusive to the Chinese Crested; rather, the hairless condition is the result of a mutation that has been seen in other breeds in South and Central America.

It is not the result of the same genetic hiccup, but a mutation none the less. In the case of the Crested, a dominate gene for hairlessness is to blame; however, the hairless gene has not completely dominated the breed due to the fact that having two dominate hairless genes kills the fetus. There must always be one long haired recessive gene paired with any dominate hairless gene. Powderpuffs are homozygous for the recessive long hair genes.

It is thought that the first Crested made their way from Africa to China in the 1200s. The hairless dogs were prized ship dogs because of their resistance to flea infestation, and ability to dispatch rats that would stow away on the ships. Their exotic look also made them a tradeable commodity, effectively distributing the breed all around the globe (except in North America and Europe, where they were not documented until the early 1800s).

In 1880, an American named Ida Garrett and her friend Debra Woods took a special interest in perpetuating the breed that would eventually be accepted by the AKC in 1991. It took over 100 years, but their 40 years of effort paid off and most Chinese Crested can trace their bloodline to Debra Woods stock as a result.

Chinese Crested Dog Breed: Temperament

This canine is a devoted companion and affectionate lap dog. Their playful antics extend beyond their family as they show few reservations and are welcoming of strangers and other household pets. Things are not all fun and games for the Crested. They have taken the job as watchdog in many homes with great success.

Chinese Crested Dog Breed: Health

The Chinese Crested was not designed for living outdoors. It requires sweaters when the weather is cool, and the hairless variety will require sunblock before they venture outdoors in addition to other moisturizing lotions and regular baths to keep the skin clear of blackheads. On the other hand, the Powerderpuffs will need their coats brushed every other day, and their muzzle shaven twice a month.

Primary health concerns include glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, and lens luxation. There may also be complications including seizures, patellar luxation, and deafness.

The life expectancy for a healthy Crested is between 13-15 human years.