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Breed profile

Chinese Crested

A toy breed in two versions: hairless with silky tufts, or fully coated Powderpuff. Affectionate, sensitive and happiest close to you.

A hairless Chinese Crested with a silky white crest, socks and tail plume standing on grass
Hairless Chinese CrestedPhoto: Tommy Gildseth / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
Weight
3.5–5.5 kg8–12 lb
Height
28–33 cm11–13 in
Lifespan
12–16 yrs
Group
Toy
Origin
China
Popularity
#72 US#106 UK · 2025

Known for: Flat-friendlyLap dogs

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Affectionate, Sensitive, Playful, Alert.

Health problems to know about

  • Dental problems (missing or crowded teeth, early decay)
  • Primary lens luxation
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Skin problems, sunburn and acne in hairless dogs
  • Patellar luxation

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Up to 30 minutes of exercise a day. Hairless dogs need weekly baths, moisturiser, sunscreen in strong sun and a coat in cold weather; Powderpuffs need regular brushing. Brush teeth daily and keep up vet dental checks.

A good fit for

Flats, adult or quiet households, owners who want a close companion and do not mind a skincare routine.

Probably not ideal for

Homes with toddlers or rough play, long days alone, owners who want a dog that needs no grooming or skin care.

Sources

  1. Royal Kennel Club: Chinese Crested
  2. VCA Canada: Chinese Crested
  3. Wikipedia: Chinese Crested Dog

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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