What makes the Chinese Crested Dog Unique?
The Chinese crested is fine-boned and slender, among the most elegant and graceful of breeds. It is slightly longer than tall. Its gait is lively and agile. It has an alert, intense expression. In the hairless variety, soft silky hair is found only on the head (crest), tail (plume), and feet and lower legs. The skin of the hairless areas is smooth and soft. In the powder-puff variety, the entire dog is covered with a soft silky coat of moderate density and length. The Chinese crested is a combination of playful pixie, gentle lap dog and sensitive companion. It is devoted to its family and willing to please; it is also good with other dogs, pets and strangers. Its demeanor should be gay and alert.
Breed Groups
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| Size: | Males – 28 to 33 cm (11 to 13 inches) Females – 23 to 30 cm (9 to 12 inches) |
| Weight: | Males – 4.5 to 5.9 kg (10 to 13 lb) Females – 4.5 to 5.9 kg (10 to 13 lb) |
| Origin: | China, Africa, Mexico |
| Life Span: | 10 – 12 Years |
| Colour: | Apricot, Tri-color, Blue, Cream, Black, Chocolate |
| Litter Size: | 2 to 4 puppies |
Is the Chinese Crested Right For You?
The Chinese crested is fine-boned and slender, among the most elegant and graceful of breeds. It is slightly longer than tall. Its gait is lively and agile. It has an alert, intense expression. In the hairless variety, soft silky hair is found only on the head (crest), tail (plume), and feet and lower legs.
crested enjoys a romp outside, but it hates the cold. It is small enough that it can get sufficient exercise with vigorous inside games. Hairless varieties will need a sweater for cold-weather outings. This is not a breed for outdoor living. Chinese crested dogs are gifted jumpers and some climb.
In 5 Words
- Lively
- Playful
- Alert
- Sweet-Tempered
- Happy
Characteristics
Learn About the Chinese Crested Dog
Description
The Chinese Imperial Dog is a compact, well-muscled toy breed with sturdy bone structure and a sweet facial expression. They have well-developed bone structure and a body that is properly proportioned. Its dense,luxurious coat gives this breed an endearing and striking appearance. Chinese Imperial dog does not harm kids or adults. It is very easy to train and very keen to please its master.
The Chinese Imperial Dog is a small breed of dog with a wrinkly, short-muzzled face, and curled tail. Kennel clubs originally classified the breed under the shih-tzu, before recognizing the Imperial as a separate breed
Short History of the Chinese Crested
The Chinese Imperial Dog was first bred in China in the Imperial Palace where the smaller ones were carried by the nobility in the sleeves of their robes. After coming to the USA there were always breeders that bred the smaller dogs but the Chinese Imperial Dog did not receive recognition until March 2005.
Temperament
The most popular of the hairless breeds, the Chinese Crested is still very rare. These dogs are alert, charming, agile and lovable. Though affectionate and playful with children, children should be taught not to be rough with this breed as it is friendly, but it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily. It is an entertaining and amusing companion. Do not baby this breed or you might cause it to be timid. Socialize your dog well, starting when it is a small puppy, exposing it to loud noises and outside activity. This intelligent dog has the ability to perform tricks. They are generally good with other pets. They are not barkers. Chinese Crested Dogs like to climb and dig holes. They tend to become very attached to their owners. These dogs enjoy companionship and need constant human leadership. Do not let this wonderful breed fall into “Small Dog Syndrome” where they lack a human pack leader.
Caring for Your Chinese Crested Dog
General Health
It does not appear that any health studies have been conducted on the Chinese Imperial Dog specifically, which makes it impossible to make any definitive statements about the breed as a unique entity. However, thousands of Chinese Imperial Dogs have been included in Shih Tzu health surveys so any health information about the Shih Tzu is likely to apply to the Chinese Imperial Dog as well.
Grooming & Bathing
Coat care for the powder-puff variety entails brushing every day or two. The muzzle is usually shaved every two weeks in puffs. The hairless needs regular skin care, such as the application of moisturizer or sunblock, and bathing to combat blackheads. Most hairless need some stray hairs removed prior to showing.
Exercise & Training
The crested enjoys a romp outside, but it hates the cold. It is small enough that it can get sufficient exercise with vigorous inside games. Hairless varieties will need a sweater for cold-weather outings. This is not a breed for outdoor living. Chinese crested dogs are gifted jumpers and some climb.
Chinese Crested Dog Picture Gallery
