GROUP 1 - TOYS

Brief History
The origins of the Chinese Crested are shrouded in time and one can only make an educated assumption of how he came to be. Hairless dogs exist in other parts of the world, in particular, the New World or the Americas; others believe Africa was the cradle of civilisation for hairless dogs.  Of course, small dogs suited traders and merchants as they kept the ships free of vermin, but if they were a novelty or unique in appearance that made them even more valuable bargaining chips when it came to barter and trade. They found their way to China and it was during the Han Dynasty the breed was established. Upon their introduction to the West, as expected, their hairless or nude appearance guaranteed public fascination. One of the first Chinese Crested Dogs sent to England created such a stir that he was exhibited in the London Zoo as a curiosity.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 13 to 15 years.

Temperament
The Chinese Crested is happy, intelligent and alert and can be quite self-possessed. Whilst they can be true extroverts in familiar surroundings, they can however be apprehensive of strangers, rather aloof in manner and may react to provocation. 

General Breed Description
The Chinese Crested is a lively and alert toy breed who is high in leg and characteristically refined and stylish. There are two distinct coat types. The hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and ankles. The coated variety, called the powderpuff, is covered by a fine soft coat called a ‘veil’. Besides the coat, there is very little difference between the powderpuff and his unclothed brother.  Breeders often find both coat types born in the same litter. Both varieties are exemplified by fine-boned elegance and graceful movement.

Coat and Care Requirements
One could easily think that the hairless variation of the Chinese Crested would require almost no grooming. After all, he has little to no hair. However, because his skin is exposed, the hairless Crested is prone to skin irritations, allergies, and sunburn. Careful grooming, including skin treatments specifically for your dog’s skin type, sunscreen, and moisturising lotions are necessary to maintain a healthy pet. The Powderpuff version needs to be brushed every few days to maintain his soft coat.

Size
Height: Males 28-33cms (11 to 13ins), Females 23-30cms (9 to 12ins).

Weight: 5.4kgs or less.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about the breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Chinese Crested is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. These may include progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and primary lens luxation. Epilepsy occurs in the breed occasionally. Patella luxation may be present in the Chinese Crested, as with many small breeds. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease has no DNA test to screen parents, but it does sometimes show up on X-ray.

Suitability
The Chinese Crested loves to spend time with his owner. They are happy to be the only dog in a household or to have other canine company. They do need a fully enclosed yard, as being so small they can easily fit through tiny gaps. They have a very sensitive nature and must be trained with gentle patience. Harsh words and negative actions on your part can damage your relationship to the point that he will not be interested in learning further from you. Of course, their lack of clothes mean they are definitely an indoors dog who needs a warm bed and a smart coat or jacket during the winter.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard:  https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/21