The Chinese Crested Dog is well-known for their unique appearance and is widely known as a hairless dog breed. In addition to their unique look, these dogs are also known for being affectionate companions. Here are a few more facts about Chinese Crested Dogs:

1. They Are An Ancient Dog Breed

The Chinese Crested Dog is an ancient dog breed that originated in China. Although we’re not sure exactly how far back they go, aside from thousands of years, it’s thought their ancestors were large hairless dogs that were imported from Africa and then miniaturized over generations and generations of cross-breeding.

2. Chinese Crested Dogs Were Sailors

These dogs were commonly found on Chinese trading vessels and were sometimes called “Chinese Ship Dogs”. They were commonly on board as companions and exterminators to keep rodent populations under control.

These dogs were even traded between sailors at foreign ports. Because of this, they had already shown up in various areas around the world before the Age of Discovery. But, they would not make their appearance in the United States until the 1880s.

3. Not All Chinese Cresteds Are Hairless

Although the Chinese Crested Dog is considered a hairless dog breed and most of them are hairless, not all of them are. Chinese Crested Dogs have two dog coat types – hairless and Powder Puff.

Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs

The hairless coat type tends to be genetically dominant in Chinese Crested Dogs. Generally, they are hairless with spotted pink skin. Although they are considered a hairless dog breed, they do tend to have tufts of hair around their head, on their tail, and on their feet.

Powder Puff Chinese Crested Dogs

The Powder Puff coat type is genetically recessive in Chinese Crested Dogs. Crested with this coat type are not hairless and are covered in a silky, soft double coat. They will need to be brushed daily to remove tangles and prevent mats.

4. They Are Affectionate Companions

Although Cresteds aren’t necessarily widely known as “velcro dogs” like the Vizsla, they may as well be. They are considered “ultra-affectionate” and love nothing more than being with their favorite humans.

Like velcro dogs, they tend to follow their favorite people from room to room. They prefer to be nearby, preferably touching or cuddling with their loved ones, and do not like spending time alone. Because of this, they are considered one of the most affectionate dog breeds.

5. Cresteds Get Cold Easily

Both coat types of the Chinese Crested will get cold easily. Although Powder Puff Cresteds do have some extra cover for warmth, it’s not much and they will still need winter dog products to stay warm while out on winter walks.

Standard hairless Cresteds may need a sweater or a shirt to help keep away the chill even on a cool spring or fall day. It’s not a bad idea to have different thicknesses of layers available so you can make sure your Crested stays warm without overheating. Just make sure the fabrics you choose don’t irritate their sensitive skin!

6. They Also Get Sunburned

In addition to bundling up to stay warm in the winter, you also need to prepare for sun care in every season and use sun protection tips for dogs. Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs will get sunburned easily, so you want to make sure you have dog-friendly sunscreen on hand to help protect their sensitive skin if you won’t be covering them with a t-shirt. This is one of the beach safety tips for dogs that you will want to implement anytime you’ll be outside with your Crested.

7. Chinese Cresteds Can Be “Cat-Like”

Similar to how cats like to perch on high places, Chinese Crested Dogs are known to do the same. Don’t be surprised if you find them perching on the backs of couches, on the arms of couches or chairs, on tables, on windows, etc. They may even find a way to get to the top of the fridge! If you also have cats and a cat tree, you’re likely to find your Chinese Crested hanging out there.

8. They Are Good at Several Dog Sports

Although they are small dogs, Cresteds tend to be good at several dog sports and have been known to be able to jump over high obstacles when they put their minds to it. They’re known to excel at agility training. They can also tend to do well at obedience, rally, and more.

Is a Chinese Crested Dog Puppy Right For You?

These are just a few facts about Chinese Crested Dogs. These dogs can be a great fit for single owners and families who can give them the attention they crave every day and make them feel like involved and cherished members of the family.

In return, they’ll fill your life with plenty of love and cuddles along with some laughs at their playful and comedic antics. If you think this could be the right dog breed for you, learn more about them, and then check out the available Chinese Crested Dog puppies. You could end up finding your new best friend!