Chinese Crested Dog

Chinese Crested Dog

This is a friendly and attractive little breed of dog which is full of fun and very attached to its owner.

History:

The Chinese Crested Dog is said to have existed as far back as 1000 BC. It is now extinct in China, but was very popular there up until the mid-1800s. It is now more popular in Britain and America. Some experts suggest the hairless breeds of dog are from a common ancestor, but there is debate that the varieties found in China, Mexico, Turkey, and elsewhere are derived from local breeds.

Physical characteristics:

The Chinese Crested Dog is a tiny, graceful, and finely-boned dog. The smaller the size, the more it is valued. Height: under FCI standards 12 - 19.5 in (30 - 50 cm), under South African standards around 11 in (28 cm) and elsewhere 11 - 13 in (28 - 33 cm) for the adult dog and 9 - 12 in (23 - 30.5 cm) for the bitch. Weight: up to 12 lb (5.4 kg). The skin is hairless and smooth with a flowing crest of silk hair crowning its fine muzzled head. The skin is soft and warm to the touch. The colors of this breed can be any mix of blue, gray, gold or pink, either as solids or patched with white. The dog's coat will change color with the seasons, becoming darker in summer and lighter in winter.

The skin can easily become irritated when in contact with cloth and can form skin lesions. The dog does feel the cold, but should avoid abrasive fabrics if wearing protective clothing. Wool irritates the skin, so cotton could be used.

As with other breeds of hairless dogs, "powder-puffs," or pups with coats, sometimes occur in Chinese Crested litters. These coats have short, downy-soft undercoats overhung with long, veil-like overcoats. This is possibly nature's way of keeping the pups warm; "powder-puffs" are not bred.

Behavior:

The Chinese Crested Dog is usually quite gentle in its nature and makes a wonderful companion for its owner. At times, however, this dog can have a very determined spirit, and a firm hand is required to keep it in line. However, once it is established who is in control, the Chinese Crested Dog becomes a loyal and trustworthy companion. Although its size prevents it from ever aspiring to be a guard dog, the Chinese Crested Dog performs very well as a watch-dog to alert its owner.

In most cases the Chinese Crested Dog gets along very well with other dogs. Its rather unusual appearance can sometimes startle other dogs, and care should be taken on first meetings. This dog is very much a people's dog, and has been bred to be a companion animal. Because of its unconventional appearance, strangers may wish to pat and otherwise investigate the dog. Wise owners will not allow strangers to initially pat the dog on the head, as this dominant gesture may make it snap at them. The Chinese Crested Dog can make an excellent family pet, but care should be taken to avoid rough games with small children.

This dog will thrive on its owner's attention, and with patience it can be quite trainable.

Generally, the Chinese Crested Dog is kept inside the house. If kept outside for short periods of time, it must be provided with adequate shelter. The dog needs protection from the sun, drafts and the cold.