Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is one of the most distinctive dogs you will ever meet. The Hairless variety has smooth, warm skin with silky hair only on the head (the crest), the tail (the plume) and the feet (the socks). The Powderpuff, which is born in the same litters, has a full, soft, veil-like coat. Both are the same breed with the same temperament, and both can be shown. Hairlessness comes from a single dominant gene, which is why the two varieties keep appearing together.

The breed's origins are genuinely uncertain. Hairless dogs have existed in Africa, Mexico and South America for centuries, and the Chinese name probably reflects legend more than history. What is clear is that the modern breed was developed as a companion in Europe and North America from the late nineteenth century. It has only ever had one job, and it does it beautifully: being with people.

Chinese Cresteds are affectionate, gentle and playful, and they tend to attach very closely to their owners. Many are true velcro dogs, following their person from room to room. They are usually good with other dogs and often with cats. With children, they suit calm, older kids better than toddlers, because they are fine-boned and sensitive. They do not cope well with long hours alone, and separation worry is common if they are not taught to settle.

Exercise needs are modest. Around 30 minutes a day of walks and play keeps most adults happy, and they enjoy games, short training sessions and even agility. They are agile jumpers and climbers and some are surprisingly good escape artists. Training works best with gentle, reward-based methods; they are sensitive to harsh handling and can become shy if poorly socialised.

Care is where the two varieties differ, and it matters. The Hairless has skin that behaves much like human skin. It burns in the sun, so dog-safe sunscreen or light clothing is needed on bright days, even in northern Europe. It gets cold easily, so a jumper or coat is needed in cool weather. It can develop blackheads and acne, so a gentle bath every week or two with a mild shampoo, followed by a light moisturiser, keeps it healthy. Some Hairless dogs have more body hair than others and need occasional shaving or trimming. Avoid heavy oils and products not made for dogs.

The Powderpuff needs a different routine: brushing several times a week to stop its silky coat matting, especially behind the ears and in the armpits. Some owners clip the coat shorter. Powderpuffs shed little, and the Hairless barely sheds at all, though neither is truly hypoallergenic.

Health is generally good and the breed is long-lived, often reaching 15 or more. Primary lens luxation and progressive retinal atrophy have DNA tests, and breeders should use them. Patellar luxation is common in toy breeds. Dental problems are frequent in the Hairless, which is often born with missing or poorly rooted teeth because the hairless gene also affects tooth development; daily brushing and regular dental checks help. Skin problems, from sunburn to allergies, are the most common day-to-day issue for the Hairless.

Costs are low for food and modest for insurance, but factor in sunscreen, clothing, skin products or grooming.

Who suits a Chinese Crested? People who are home a lot, want a deeply affectionate small companion and are happy to follow a regular skin or coat routine. Who should think again? Busy households where the dog would be alone all day, families with toddlers, and anyone imagining hairless means no care. For the right owner, a Crested is a loving, playful and long-lived friend.