Chinese Crested
An odd, endearing companion dog that exists in two forms: the hairless version that requires sunscreen and sweaters, and the Powderpuff version that looks like a tiny Pekingese. Both are affectionate, lively, and surprisingly athletic for their size. Long-lived for a small breed and genuinely low-shedding — a real draw for allergy-prone households.
Free weekly training plan, specific to your Chinese Crested’s age. Exactly what to focus on this week.
Get your free training planLiving with a Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested isn't just a novelty act with its dramatic tufts of hair and smooth, almost human-like skin. This breed has real history, originally bred as a companion and shipboard ratter in China, yes, these delicate-looking dogs were rodent control on long sea voyages. Don’t let the looks fool you.
They’re alert, surprisingly spry, and form intense bonds with their people. They’re not lap ornaments; they’re tuned-in little companions who’ll follow you from room to room, chirping softly if they want attention. Day to day, they’re low on energy.
3 out of 5, so a short walk or indoor play session is plenty. They’ll zoom around during a game of chase-the-laser or wrestle with a stuffed toy, then curl up on the couch for hours. They’re adaptable, scoring a solid 4 for trainability and adaptability, so they do well in apartments and with retirees or singles who want a velcro dog.
But they don’t love chaos. Young kids can be too rough, and their 3/5 kid-friendliness means supervision is a must. They’re affectionate.
4 out of 5, but on their terms. Grooming? It depends.
The Hairless variety needs weekly baths to prevent oil buildup, sunscreen daily if they go outside, and moisturizer to avoid dry skin. The Powderpuff version? A weekly brush and occasional bath, but no shedding.
1/5 means you won’t find hair on your black pants. Either way, they’re a good fit for allergy sufferers, especially the Hairless. Health-wise, watch for patellar luxation and Legg-Calve-Perthes, both orthopedic issues common in small breeds.
Progressive retinal atrophy is a risk, so yearly eye checks are smart. And yes, the Hairless can sunburn, no joking, they need SPF 30+. They’re perfect for calm households, allergy-prone owners, or anyone who wants a devoted, interactive companion.
But skip this breed if you’re outdoorsy in cold climates or want a sturdy playmate for rowdy kids. Here’s the real talk: people assume Chinese Cresteds are fragile or high-maintenance for attention. They’re not.
They’re emotionally intelligent. They’ll sit quietly while you work, but they notice everything. Ignore them for too long, and they’ll remind you, politely, persistently, that you’re theirs.
14 traits, at a glance.
Every breed on PuppyBase is rated across the 14 trait dimensions the American Kennel Club publishes — from trainability to drooling level. The higher the score, the better the fit for that trait.
What to expect day-to-day
Things to screen for
- Patellar luxation
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Sunburn (hairless variety)
- Dental disease
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Common questions
How long do Chinese Cresteds live?
Chinese Cresteds typically live between 13 and 18 years, which is a long lifespan for a small dog breed.
How much does a Chinese Crested puppy cost?
A Chinese Crested puppy usually costs between $1,500 and $4,000, with most averaging around $2,500 depending on breeder and lineage.
How much do Chinese Cresteds shed?
Chinese Cresteds shed very little, making them a genuinely low-shedding breed, especially the hairless variety.
What colors do Chinese Cresteds come in?
Chinese Cresteds come in any color or combination of colors, with no restrictions on coat appearance.
How big do Chinese Cresteds get?
Chinese Cresteds stand 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 8 and 12 pounds, fitting squarely in the toy size range.
Are Chinese Cresteds smart?
Yes, Chinese Cresteds are intelligent and responsive to training, picking up new commands in about 15 to 25 repetitions.
Are Chinese Cresteds hypoallergenic?
Yes, the hairless variety is considered hypoallergenic due to minimal shedding and lack of a full coat.
Are Chinese Cresteds aggressive?
No, Chinese Cresteds are not typically aggressive; they're affectionate and alert, with a friendly demeanor toward people they know.
What health problems are common in Chinese Cresteds?
Common issues include patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease, and sunburn in the hairless type.
Do Chinese Cresteds bark a lot?
They bark moderately, usually to alert their owners, but aren't considered excessive or nuisance barkers.
Are Chinese Cresteds easy to train?
Yes, they are highly trainable and respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement methods.
Are Chinese Cresteds good family dogs?
They can be, especially in homes with older children, but their fragility makes them less ideal for households with rough play from young kids.
Are Chinese Cresteds good with cats?
Chinese Cresteds are generally moderate with other animals, so early socialization helps ensure they get along with cats.
Can Chinese Cresteds live in apartments?
Yes, they adapt well to apartment living thanks to their small size, moderate energy, and quiet nature.
What's the difference between the Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested?
The Hairless has soft skin with hair only on the head, feet, and tail, while the Powderpuff has a full, soft double coat and looks like a small plush dog.
Do Chinese Cresteds need sunscreen?
Yes, the hairless variety requires sunscreen when outdoors to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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