Chinese Crested Dog
Hairless Chinese Crested, Powderpuff Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested dog is kept solely as a companion. They are one of four recognized hairless breeds; the others being the American Hairless Terrier, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and Xoloitzcuintli.
Chinese Crested Dog Standards
- 9-13"
- 5-12 lbs
- small, toy breed
- large, erect ears and long tail
- hairless has hair on head, tail and paws
- powderpuff has soft, silky coat
- can be any color
History of the Chinese Crested Dog
The history of the Chinese Crested is heavily debated and will likely never be settled. Legend states that these dogs were originally used as vermin killers on Chinese ships traveling the seas. Some fanciers claim the Chinese Crested is the ancestor to the South American breeds, the Peruvian Inca Orchid and the Xoloitzcuintli. Others state they are from extinct dogs from Africa such as the African Sand Dog.
However, there is no record of any hairless breeds in China before the 16th century. Additionally, hairless dogs were unknown outside of South and Central America before the 15th century. Hairless dogs could be found along the European trade routes after the discovery of the New World. This makes it far more likely the Xoloitzcuintli was the dog being transported and traded on ships.
As for the Chinese Crested Dog specifically no records of this breed were kept before the 1950s and those were in the United States. These dogs were bred by Debora Woods at Crest Haven Kennel. There are extensive records for nearly all modern Chinese Cresteds coming from Crest Haven. However, none exist to tell us where Crest Haven obtained their breeding pool.
Taking all legends and little fact into account it is likely the Chinese Crested was developed from crosses with the Xoloitzcuintli. It is probable various terriers and Chihuahuas were part of the mixing pot.
Related Breeds: