The Chinese Crested dog, with its Powderpuff and Hairless varieties, exemplifies the beauty of diversity within a single breed. Whether adorned in a lavish coat of fur or showcasing its naked skin, each variation possesses its allure and charm. By embracing the unique characteristics of these canine companions, we celebrate the rich tapestry of life and the endless wonders found within the animal kingdom. This article will give an overview of Chinese Crested Dog prices, for sale, puppy, with hair, cost, ugly, rescue, breed, breeders, and names.
Chinese Crested Dog: Profile, Facts, Traits, Grooming, Care, Health, Diet
With its unique appearance, endearing personality, and special care requirements, the Chinese Crested dog captivates the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. By providing the right balance of affection, protection, and discipline, this charming breed can thrive as a beloved member of any family.
Introduction to the Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested dog stands out among canine breeds due to its unique characteristic of being mostly hairless. This distinctive feature sets it apart from many other dogs, attracting attention and curiosity wherever it goes. Interestingly, within the same litter, one may find two distinct variations of this breed: the Powderpuff, which is adorned with a silky coat of fur, and the Hairless, living up to its name with a lack of fur covering its body.
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- Lifespan: Chinese Crested dogs typically live for 12 to 14 years, although some individuals have been known to live even longer.
- Weight: They usually weigh between 7 to 12 pounds (4 to 5 kilograms).
- Height: Their height typically ranges from 10 to 13 inches (about 30 centimeters).
- Color: Chinese Crested dogs can come in any color or combination of colors.
These statistics provide a general overview of the characteristics of healthy Chinese Crested dogs.
Understanding Varieties within the Breed
When exploring the realm of Chinese Crested dogs, it’s crucial to recognize the diversity within this fascinating breed. The Powderpuff variety boasts a soft and luscious coat, adding an extra layer of charm to its appearance. On the other hand, the Hairless variation presents a striking image with its smooth, naked skin, highlighting its unique features. Despite their outward differences, both varieties share the same lineage and familial bond, often found within the same litter.
Unveiling the Powderpuff
Picture the Chinese Crested Powderpuff, adorned in a luxurious coat resembling a delicate veil. This variation captivates with its fluffy fur, inviting gentle caresses and admiration from onlookers. Its softness adds a touch of elegance to its demeanor, complementing its graceful movements and gentle disposition. Those who encounter a Powderpuff often find themselves enchanted by its plush appearance, eager to shower it with affection and care.
The Hairless Wonder
In contrast to its Powderpuff counterpart, the Chinese Crested Hairless dog presents a striking and unique sight. Its smooth, naked skin is a canvas showcasing the breed’s distinctive features with unparalleled clarity. The absence of fur accentuates its slender frame and elegant contours, drawing attention to its graceful silhouette. Despite its lack of outer covering, the Hairless Chinese Crested exudes confidence and poise, captivating observers with its undeniable charm.
History of the Chinese Crested Dog
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Origins: The origins of the Chinese Crested dog are not definitively traced to China, despite its name. While hairless dogs have been found in various parts of the world, genetic evidence suggests a shared origin with the Xoloitzcuintli, indicating a likely connection to Central America rather than China. The breed was sometimes referred to as the African Hairless Terrier in 19th-century texts.
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Historical Uses: Chinese Crested dogs were likely used as ratters on Chinese ships, where their small size and agility made them effective hunters of vermin. They were also believed to have been bred as companions for individuals with mental disabilities, as they require minimal exercise and are known for their affectionate nature.
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Development of the Breed: In the 1950s, Debora Wood established the “Crest Haven” kennel and began selectively breeding Chinese Crested dogs. Another notable breeder was the burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee, whose dogs were incorporated into Crest Haven after her death. These two kennels are considered the foundation of the modern Chinese Crested breed.
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Breed Recognition: The American Hairless Dog Club, founded by Debora Wood in 1959, played a significant role in promoting and establishing the breed in the United States. It later merged with the American Chinese Crested Club (ACCC), which became the US parent club for the breed. The Chinese Crested dog was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991, and it has since been recognized by other international kennel clubs, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK), and the Australian National Kennel Council.
Despite its uncertain origins, the Chinese Crested dog has become a beloved companion breed known for its distinctive appearance and affectionate temperament.
Enchanting Appearance
The hairless Chinese Crested dog captivates with its ethereal and enchanting appearance, reminiscent of characters from fairytales. Standing out distinctively from other breeds, its mostly hairless body, weighing merely 10 to 13 pounds, draws attention. Despite its petite stature, it exudes a regal aura, with furred feet, head, and tail providing striking contrast against its smooth, naked skin. This unique combination of features lends it an otherworldly charm, making it a fascinating sight to behold.
Lively Personality
Much like its diminutive size suggests, the Chinese Crested dog possesses a vivacious and engaging personality, akin to its toy breed counterparts. Its lively demeanor and inherent charm make it an ideal companion for families seeking a gentle and affectionate pet. With its portable size, it effortlessly spreads joy and warmth wherever it ventures, delighting those who have the pleasure of its company. Whether frolicking in the yard or curling up on the couch, this breed radiates an infectious energy that brightens the lives of its human companions.
Varieties of Chinese Crested Dogs
Chinese Crested dogs are present in two distinct varieties: the hairless and the Powderpuff. The hairless variant, with its striking lack of fur, often captures attention with its unique appearance. Conversely, the Powderpuff variety sports a dense, soft coat that sheds minimally, offering a hypoallergenic option for allergy-sensitive individuals. Despite the Powderpuff’s low-shedding nature, regular grooming remains paramount to prevent the accumulation of mats and tangles in its luxurious fur. Owners must invest time and effort in grooming sessions to ensure the Powderpuff’s coat remains lustrous and free from any discomfort.
Temperament and Behavioral Balance
While showering affection upon the Chinese Crested dog is natural given its endearing qualities, it’s essential to maintain a delicate balance to foster positive behavior. Excessive pampering and protection may inadvertently lead to the development of tyrannical tendencies in the dog, as it becomes accustomed to having its every whim catered to. Conversely, overly sheltering the Chinese Crested dog may exacerbate its inherent shyness, hindering its ability to socialize effectively. Striking a harmonious balance between nurturing care and gentle discipline is crucial in shaping a well-rounded and socially adept companion. By providing structured guidance and positive reinforcement, owners can cultivate desirable behaviors in their Chinese-crested dogs, fostering mutual respect and understanding within the canine-human bond.
Cozy Adaptability
Despite its ability to endure cooler temperatures, the hairless Chinese Crested dog finds its true bliss in the cozy comforts of indoor living. While it may brave the chill when necessary, it much prefers snuggling up with its loved ones, basking in the warmth of their affection. Renowned as a celebrated lapdog, it thrives on proximity to its family members, finding solace and contentment in their companionship. Its adaptability shines through in its ability to create cozy havens wherever it roams, transforming any space into a sanctuary of love and warmth.
Sun Protection Measures
The hairless Chinese Crested dog, with its unique lack of fur, faces particular vulnerabilities when exposed to the sun’s rays. To safeguard its delicate skin, owners must take proactive measures, such as dressing their canine companion in specialized clothing designed for sun protection. Additionally, the application of high-quality sunscreen formulated for canine use becomes imperative, shielding the dog from harmful UV radiation. By prioritizing sun protection, owners ensure the long-term health and well-being of their beloved pet, mitigating the risk of sunburn and related complications.
Distinctive Appearance of the Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested dog commands attention with its unmistakable fairy-tale-like appearance, setting it apart from other breeds. Despite its petite stature, typically weighing between 10 to 13 pounds, this canine possesses an enchanting charm reminiscent of a pony. Its unique physique features furred feet, head, and tail, which serve as striking contrasts against its predominantly hairless body. This distinctive combination of attributes lends the Chinese Crested dog an allure that captivates admirers and distinguishes it as a breed like no other.
Hairless vs. Powderpuff Varieties
Within the realm of the Chinese Crested breed, two distinct varieties exist: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. Although they may initially seem like separate breeds, both varieties share the same genetic lineage, with hairlessness emerging as an incomplete dominant trait within the breed’s gene pool. Despite their differences in appearance, both Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs are members of the same cherished breed, each possessing its own unique characteristics and charm.
Hairless Variety Characteristics
The Hairless Chinese Crested variety boasts velvety, human-like skin, accentuated by tufts of fur gracing its paws (referred to as “socks”) and tail (known as a “plume”). Additionally, these dogs feature long, flowing hair on their heads, often referred to as a “crest.” It’s crucial to understand that the “hairless” gene follows an incomplete dominant inheritance pattern, leading to prenatal lethality when homozygous. Consequently, all Hairless Chinese Crested dogs are heterozygous, resulting in a spectrum of body hair variations among individuals. This genetic complexity contributes to the breed’s fascinating diversity and ensures that each Hairless Chinese Crested dog possesses a unique and captivating appearance.
Winter Attire Essentials
As temperatures drop and frosty winds prevail, the hairless Chinese Crested dog requires extra care to stay warm and cozy. Investing in a winter wardrobe becomes paramount, with sweaters emerging as indispensable garments to combat the cold. These snug garments not only provide essential insulation but also add a touch of style to your pet’s ensemble. By outfitting your Chinese Crested dog with appropriate winter attire, you ensure its comfort and protection against the harsh elements, enabling it to thrive even in the coldest of climates.
Powderpuff Variety Characteristics
In stark contrast to the Hairless variety, the Powderpuff Chinese Crested flaunts a luxurious double coat that sets it apart. This thick, plush coat provides insulation and protection against the elements, rendering the Powderpuff less vulnerable to chilly weather conditions. However, the presence of a full coat necessitates regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, ensuring the dog’s comfort and overall well-being. Despite its distinct appearance, the Powderpuff variety shares the same endearing qualities and affectionate nature characteristic of the Chinese Crested breed.
Genetic Variability Within the Hairless Variety
Within the Hairless variety of Chinese Crested dogs, a remarkable degree of variability exists, ranging from individuals with minimal body hair to those sporting a more substantial amount. Some may even exhibit beard-like tufts on their muzzles, adding to their unique charm. However, despite these variations, a true Hairless Chinese Crested dog typically lacks “furnishings,” such as hair on the head, tail, and paws, which distinguishes it from the Powderpuff variety. This genetic diversity contributes to the breed’s fascinating spectrum of appearances, ensuring each dog possesses its distinct characteristics.
Shared Temperament and Affectionate Nature
Despite their differences in appearance, both the Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs share a common trait: a lively and affectionate temperament that endears them to gentle families. Known for their playful antics and unwavering loyalty, these dogs bring joy and companionship into the lives of their owners. Whether snuggled up on the couch or frolicking outdoors, both varieties thrive on human interaction and thrive as beloved members of the family unit.
Care and Maintenance Requirements
Regardless of variety, Chinese Crested dogs require specialized care to ensure their well-being and comfort. Protection from the sun’s harmful rays is essential for hairless individuals, necessitating the use of sunscreen and protective clothing during outdoor activities. Similarly, both hairless and Powderpuff varieties benefit from regular grooming sessions to maintain coat health and prevent tangling. By attending to their unique needs with diligence and care, owners can ensure that their Chinese Crested companions lead happy, healthy lives full of love and vitality.
Variety of Colors in Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs
The skin of Hairless Chinese Crested dogs displays a fascinating array of colors, spanning from delicate, pale flesh tones to deeper hues such as black. This diverse spectrum of pigmentation contributes to the breed’s visual appeal and individuality, with each dog boasting its unique skin coloration.
Unique Dental Structure of Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs
Hairless Chinese Crested dogs often exhibit a distinctive dental structure, which may include the absence of a full set of premolar teeth. However, it’s important to note that this characteristic is not considered a fault within the breed standard. Despite variations in dental morphology, Hairless Chinese Crested dogs maintain their charm and functionality, exemplifying the breed’s adaptability and resilience.
Elegance and Grace of Powderpuff Chinese Crested Dogs
Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs epitomize elegance and grace with their refined appearance and poised demeanor. These canine companions exude sophistication while maintaining a playful and entertaining disposition, making them cherished members of loving families. Their graceful movements and affectionate nature add a touch of charm to any household, bringing joy and laughter to those fortunate enough to share their company.
Coat Texture and Ear Characteristics
The Powderpuff Chinese Crested is adorned with a lavish coat characterized by its long, silky soft texture, enhancing its regal appearance and tactile appeal. Their ears, notably large and erect, contribute to their distinctive charm, adding to their elegant silhouette and expressive features. These endearing traits further accentuate the Powderpuff’s allure, captivating admirers with their unique blend of beauty and grace.
Variability in Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs
Hairless Chinese Crested dogs exhibit a remarkable degree of variability in terms of body hair, ranging from true hairless individuals with minimal to no body hair to “furry Hairless” dogs that may display near-full coats if left ungroomed. This spectrum of hairiness within the Hairless variation highlights the breed’s genetic complexity and diversity, underscoring the intricate interplay of genes responsible for its unique traits.
Genetic Basis of Hairlessness
The mutation responsible for the hairless trait in Chinese Crested dogs was elucidated in 2008, shedding light on the genetic mechanisms underlying this distinctive characteristic. Contrary to common misconception, furry Hairless dogs do not represent a mix of Hairless and Powderpuff varieties but rather result from a weaker expression of the hairless gene. This genetic insight deepens our understanding of the breed’s heritage and evolution, illuminating the intricate interplay between genotype and phenotype in shaping its diverse array of appearances.
Dual Coat Types: Hairless and Powderpuff
Chinese Crested dogs are renowned for their dual coat types, encompassing the Hairless and Powderpuff varieties. Interestingly, both coat types can emerge within the same litter, showcasing the breed’s genetic diversity and complexity. Whether hairless or adorned with a luxuriant coat, each Chinese Crested dog possesses its distinct charm and personality.
The appearance of Powderpuff Chinese Crested Dogs
The Powderpuff variety of Chinese Crested dogs boasts a lavish, soft coat that can be styled in various ways to accentuate its beauty. When fully grown out, the fur on the face resembles that of a terrier, adding to the dog’s adorable appeal. However, standard grooming practices often involve trimming or shaving around the snout area, maintaining a neat appearance while highlighting the Powderpuff’s endearing features.
Grooming Needs of Chinese Crested Dogs: Hairless and Powderpuff Varieties
Both Hairless and Powderpuff varieties of Chinese Crested dogs require specific grooming routines to keep them healthy and looking their best:
Powderpuff Variety:
- The Powderpuff variety is completely covered with a double, very soft, straight coat.
- While a Powderpuff’s coat doesn’t continuously grow, it can become quite long when fully grown.
- Weekly baths and frequent brushing are essential to prevent matting. It’s recommended to never brush when the coat is dry or dirty; a light spray of water or grooming spray before brushing can help.
- Many owners opt for a “Pony Cut” for their Powderpuff, leaving long hair on the underside of legs, tail, head, and crest for easier maintenance.
- Powderpuffs are generally clean and odorless and have little to no shedding.
Hairless Variety:
- Maintenance of the Hairless variety’s skin is similar to maintaining human skin and requires special attention.
- Hairless Chinese Crested dogs can be prone to issues like acne, dryness, and sunburn.
- Hypoallergenic or oil-free moisturizing cream can help prevent the skin from becoming too dry when applied every other day or after bathing.
- Areas subject to strong UV radiation, especially in lighter-skinned dogs, can be susceptible to sunburn. Many owners apply baby sunscreen to their pets before spending time in strong sunlight.
By following these grooming practices, owners can ensure that both Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs remain healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.
Crest and Plumage: Identifying Features of Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs
The distinctive charm of the hairless Chinese Crested dog lies in its unique features, notably its crest and plumed tail. The crest, a tuft of hair adorning its head, serves as a hallmark of its identity, adding to its captivating allure. Additionally, hair on the tail creates a plumed appearance, while fur on the toes mimics the appearance of socks, contributing to the dog’s whimsical and endearing appearance.
Versatile Coloration
Chinese Crested dogs exhibit a wide range of colors and combinations, adding to the breed’s visual diversity and appeal. Whether sporting solid hues or intricate patterns, each dog possesses its distinct coat coloration, further enhancing its individuality and charm.
Temperature Sensitivity and Sun Protection
Hairless Chinese Crested dogs require special care to protect them from temperature extremes and sun exposure. Just like humans, these dogs can feel the cold and benefit from wearing sweaters or coats during chilly weather. Additionally, on sunny days, it’s essential to apply sunscreen to their exposed skin to prevent sunburn and discomfort. By providing adequate protection from environmental elements, owners ensure the well-being and comfort of their beloved hairless Chinese Crested companions.
Breeding Considerations for Chinese Crested Dogs
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Hairless and Powderpuff Traits: The Hairless allele is dominant but homozygous prenatal lethal, meaning zygotes that receive two copies of this allele will not develop into puppies. The powderpuff allele acts as a simple recessive trait. All Chinese Crested dogs carry at least one copy of the Powderpuff allele.
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Breeding Possibilities: Hairless Chinese Crested dogs can produce Powderpuff puppies when bred with another Hairless or a Powderpuff. However, Powderpuffs bred to other Powderpuffs will never produce Hairless puppies as they do not carry the Hairless gene.
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Temperament and Suitability: Chinese Crested dogs tend to like children but may be too delicate for rough play, making them better suited for families with older children or adults. They can be challenging to housetrain and require gentle and consistent training from puppyhood.
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Noise Level: While not as yappy as some toy breeds, Chinese Crested dogs can still vocalize, so early training is essential to prevent excessive barking.
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Indoor Living: Chinese Crested dogs are not suited for outdoor living and should be kept indoors as part of the family. They thrive on companionship and do not like being left alone for long periods.
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Intelligent and Clownish Nature: Well-bred and well-socialized Chinese Crested dogs are intelligent and have a cheerful, somewhat clownish nature. They require mental stimulation and interaction with their families to thrive.
By considering these breeding and care factors, potential owners can make informed decisions about whether the Chinese Crested dog is the right breed for them and ensure the well-being and happiness of their canine companions.
Additional Care Considerations for Chinese Crested Dogs
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Skin Allergies: Some Chinese Crested dogs may have skin allergies to lanolin, so it’s important to be cautious when using any products that contain it to avoid adverse reactions.
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Hair Removal: Unless the dog is a “true” Hairless variety (one with almost no hair growth on non-extremities), trimming and/or shaving is often done to remove excess hair growth.
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Foot Structure: The Chinese Crested dog is distinguished by its hare foot, characterized by more elongated toes, as opposed to the cat foot common in most other dogs. As a result, the quicks (the blood vessels and nerves inside the nail) of a Crested dog run deeper into its nails. Care must be taken not to trim the nails too short to avoid pain and bleeding.
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Exercise Needs: Powderpuffs enjoy outdoor activities for their daily exercise, although they are not an extremely high-energy breed. They are suitable for living in apartments or cities but also thrive in rural settings and enjoy long hikes.
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Training and Intelligence: Chinese Crested dogs are very intelligent and excel in obedience sports. Consistency in training is crucial, as this breed can be relatively sensitive and may require a gentle approach. Powderpuffs are adept at learning and performing tricks.
By taking these additional care considerations into account, owners can ensure that their Chinese Crested dogs remain healthy, comfortable, and well-behaved companions.
Health Considerations for Powderpuff Chinese Crested Dogs
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Eye Issues: Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs are prone to several congenital eye conditions, including lens luxation, glaucoma, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Regular eye exams by veterinary ophthalmologists are essential to monitor and address these conditions.
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Dental Health: The Powderpuff variety should have full dentition, with no missing or crooked teeth. They may also be prone to poor dentition, including missing or crowded teeth and teeth susceptible to decay if not properly cared for.
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a group of genetic diseases that can lead to blindness in dogs. Chinese Crested dogs may have at least two forms of PRA, including prcd-PRA, for which a genetic test exists to determine carrier, clear, or affected status.
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Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye Syndrome): Powderpuffs may also be susceptible to dry eye syndrome, a condition characterized by insufficient tear production, leading to discomfort and potential eye damage.
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Canine Multiple System Degeneration (CMSD): Also known as progressive neuronal abiotrophy (PNA), CMSD is a progressive movement disorder that affects some Chinese Crested dogs, resulting in cerebellar ataxia and difficulties initiating movements. Dog accessories on Amazon
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Patellar Luxation: Like many toy breeds, Chinese Crested dogs may be prone to patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap pops out of place due to shallow knee joints. Breeders should certify their stock to be free of this condition.
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Allergies and Autoimmune Diseases: Chinese Crested dogs may also be susceptible to allergies and autoimmune diseases, which can have serious implications for their health and longevity. Breeders should take measures to minimize the risk of these conditions in their breeding programs.
By being aware of these health considerations and taking proactive measures to address them, owners and breeders can help ensure the well-being and longevity of Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can aid in early detection and management of potential health issues.
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