
Chinese Crested Dog – a unique dog with extraordinary beauty and a heart full of love
The Chinese Crested Dog is one of the most unique breeds in the world. Its exotic appearance—slender body, bald skin with a fringe, fringes on its paws, and bushy tail—makes it difficult to ignore. But behind this unusual appearance lies an incredibly gentle, affectionate, and devoted dog.
This post is a compendium of knowledge about the breed: you will learn where it comes from, its physical characteristics and character, how to care for it, and what accessories are best for it.
🌏 Origin and history of the breed
Despite its name, the Chinese Crested Dog does not originate directly from China. It likely descends from hairless dogs from Africa or Mexico, which were brought to Asia by sailors and traders. In China, they were valued as temple dogs and status symbols—considered to bring good luck and excellent companions.
The breed gained popularity in Europe and the USA in the early 20th century, especially in artistic circles – their unusual appearance perfectly suited the bohemian aesthetic.
📏 Two types of Chinese Crested Dogs
The Chinese Crested Dog comes in two varieties:
1. Hairless
– Bald skin with a fringe on the head, fur on the paws and tail
– Requires protection from sun and cold
2. Powderpuff
– Covered with soft, silky fur all over the body
– More demanding in care
Height: 23–33 cm
Weight: 3–6 kg
Lifespan: 13–16 years
Regardless of the variety, these are dogs of delicate build, agile and graceful in movement .
💚 Character – a shadow dog who will love you unconditionally
The Chinese Crested is a highly emotional dog. It forms a strong bond with one person and willingly accompanies them through everything from remote work to evenings relaxing on the couch.
Characteristic features:
✔ Incredibly sensitive and devoted
✔ Quiet – rarely barks
✔ Loves to be close – literally glued to you
✔ Good for allergy sufferers (especially the hairless variety)
✔ Hates being alone – not suitable for being left at home for long periods of time
This is a "handy" dog that appreciates closeness, soft fabrics and a homely atmosphere .
🧠 Training – gentleness and positive motivation
The Chinese Crested is not dominant, but can be timid. Therefore, training should be based on trust and a gentle approach .
Tips:
-
Socialize from puppyhood (different sounds, places, people)
-
Avoid shouting – the dog may become withdrawn.
-
Praise for every good behavior
-
Use a calm tone and rewards (treats, petting)
🛏️ Bed for Chinese Crested Dogs – warm, soft and cozy
This dog is exceptionally sensitive to cold and drafts – it needs a bed that provides warmth, protection, and closeness . It enjoys burrowing into blankets, sleeping under covers, and snuggling into soft materials.
🔗 See the Sen collection of beds
Recommendations:
✔ Cocoon beds with raised sides
✔ Boucle or velvet fabrics – warm and soft
✔ Memory foam filling – for comfort and health
✔ Sizes XS/S – perfect for this breed
🪜 Steps – help for delicate joints
Due to their delicate build and susceptibility to injury, Chinese Cresteds should not be allowed to jump onto couches or beds on their own . Steps are a safe form of support.
✔ 3-step for lower furniture, 4-step for beds
✔ Light, stable construction with a soft finish
✔ They facilitate everyday functioning and protect health
✔ Stylistically match the beds from the Sen collection
🚗 Car seat – for safety and peace of mind
Chinese Cresteds don't like uncertainty – car rides can be stressful for them. A car seat provides a safe and comfortable space that calms them down.
✔ Single model – perfect size
✔ Foam filling – absorbs vibrations
✔ Seat belts inside and seat attachment
✔ Stylish look – fits modern car interiors
🧴 Care and health
Care depends on the variety:
-
Hairless: the skin requires moisturizing creams, sun protection (UV filters) and, in winter, clothing
-
Powderpuff: Daily Brushing and Regular Bathing
Health:
-
Common dermatological problems
-
Hypersensitivity to cold
-
Delicate teeth – especially in the hairless variety
-
A diet that supports skin and immunity is required
👪 Who would consider a Chinese Crested Dog as the perfect dog?
✔ For people who like their dogs close to them
✔ For homebodies and remote workers
✔ For allergy sufferers (hairless variety)
✔ For caregivers who value relationship and gentleness
✔ For those who want a small dog but with a big heart
✅ Summary – an exceptional dog for an exceptional owner
The Chinese Crested is a dog for someone seeking emotional connection and loving to care for others. It's graceful, charming, and highly aesthetic. Its needs are different from those of most dogs—it's a breed that requires warmth, closeness, and... a soft bed.
With Petto you can provide it all:
🔹 Beds from the Dream collection
🔹 Stairs to the bed and couch
🔹 Oi car seats