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    Toy Group

    Chinese Crested

    A small, fine-boned toy breed occurring in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. While famously known for their skin, they are athletic, surprisingly agile, and deeply bonded to their owners. They thrive as indoor companions and require specific skincare or grooming protocols depending on their coat type. Potential owners should prepare for extensive dental care and sun protection.

    A Chinese Crested dog showing the hairless variety with a white crest of hair on its head and feet.

    Quick Facts

    Origin
    China/Africa
    Height (M / F)
    11-13 / 11-13 in
    Weight (M / F)
    8-12 / 8-12 lb
    Lifespan
    13–18 years
    Coat
    Hairless (smooth skin with hair on head, tail, and feet) or Powderpuff (soft, silky double coat)
    Shedding
    low
    Hypoallergenic
    Often tolerated
    Energy
    ●●●○○ (3/5)
    Trainability
    ●●●●○ (4/5)
    Kid-friendly
    ●●●○○ (3/5)
    Apartment OK
    Yes
    Daily exercise
    20–45 min

    History & Origin

    The breed likely descended from large African hairless dogs that were downsized by the Chinese and used as shipboard ratters. Sailors traded them globally, which is how they arrived in South and Central America. They were officially recognized by the AKC in 1991.

    Temperament & Personality

    Affectionate, alert, and intensely devoted to their family. They are known for being exceptionally gentle and cat-like in their movements. While social with their owners, they can be wary of strangers and require early socialization to build confidence.

    Health Watchouts

    Top conditions reported by AKC parent clubs, OFA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. Discuss screening with your vet — especially before breeding or insuring.

    Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)

    High in the breed type

    A painful condition where the lens of the eye shifts, potentially causing glaucoma and blindness.

    Screening: DNA Test

    Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-prcd)

    Common

    A degenerative eye disease that leads to permanent blindness.

    Screening: DNA Test, CAER exam

    Patellar Luxation

    Moderate

    The kneecap slips out of its groove, causing lameness or a 'hopping' gait.

    Screening: Physical Exam (OFA)

    Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

    Low/Moderate

    Legg-Calve-Perthes occurs when the blood supply to the head of the femur is interrupted, causing hip joint disintegration.

    Screening: Radiographs (OFA)

    Exercise Needs

    Moderate daily exercise is required to maintain a healthy weight and mental well-being, though they are largely indoor dogs.

    • Daily walks on soft surfaces
    • Short bursts of indoor play
    • Basic agility or rally training
    • Supervised outdoor sunbathing with protection
    Puppies: Avoid long walks on hard pavement during peak sun hours to protect developing joints and skin.
    Seniors: Maintain moderate movement to keep joints limber; monitoring for skin changes becomes more critical with age.

    Nutrition

    Daily calories: 250-400 kcal/day depending on activity level

    Frequent small meals are better for their metabolism. Monitor for dental issues that may make hard kibble difficult.

    Common allergens to watch: Chicken, Beef, Dairy.

    ⚠ Even one pound of excess weight puts significant strain on their small joints.

    Entertainment & Enrichment

    Mental stimulation is vital for this intelligent breed; they enjoy problem-solving and activities that involve close interaction with their owners.

    • Heated indoor scent work games
    • Squeaky soft toy fetch
    • Obstacle courses using household furniture
    • Teaching complex trick sequences

    Grooming & Coat Care

    Hairless: Body requires weekly bathing and daily moisturizing. Powderpuff: Daily brushing of the long double coat to prevent matting.

    Training

    Respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle handling; they are sensitive to harsh corrections. They excel in competitive obedience and agility due to their desire to please.

    Cost of Ownership

    Lifetime cost depends on size, lifespan, and health risks. Try our Lifetime Cost Calculator →

    Cost band for Chinese Crested: medium.

    How insurance, vet care & grooming connect for the Chinese Crested

    These three costs move together. The Chinese Crested’s coat, energy, and breed-specific health watchouts shape each one — here’s how they line up.

    Insurance band

    Above average

    Common hereditary conditions raise claim odds

    Vet service load

    Moderate

    Several conditions worth annual screening

    Grooming demand

    Above average

    Professional clipping every 6–8 weeks

    Costs are balanced for the Chinese Crested — no single category dominates the lifetime budget.

    Estimated monthly spend (typical adult)

    Insurance

    $75

    Routine vet

    $45

    Grooming

    $60

    Combined estimate

    ~$180/mo(±20%, US averages)

    * Estimates derived from breed traits (coat, energy, health watchouts, lifespan). Actual costs vary by location, age, and provider.

    Living Situation Fit

    Ideally suited for apartments, provided they are kept warm with sweaters in winter. They require constant companionship and should not be left outdoors unattended due to skin sensitivity.

    Choosing a Puppy

    Ensure the breeder screens for PLL and PRA. Hairless varieties are prone to skin issues and missing teeth, while the Powderpuff has a full set of teeth and a double coat; choose the variety that best fits your grooming capacity.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do they need special skin care?

    Yes, the hairless variety requires sunscreen for outdoor time and regular bathing with high-quality cleansers and moisturizers to prevent blackheads and acne.

    Why does my hairless dog have missing teeth?

    The hairless gene is physically linked to missing or abnormally shaped teeth (primitive mouth); this is a known trait for the variety. Powderpuffs have normal dentition.

    Are they fragile lap dogs?

    While very sensitive to cold, they are active and athletic. They are known 'Velcro dogs' who prefer to be with their humans at all times.

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    Reviewed by PetHelpAnswers Editorial Team

    This profile is shared for informational and educational purposes only. Individual dogs vary — always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical guidance.