A fine-boned, elegant toy dog that craves human companionship, the Crested comes in two varieties. The Hairless has soft, silky hair on its head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks). Wherever the body is hairless the skin is soft and smooth. The Powderpuff is entirely covered with a double soft, straight coat. The two types often come from the same litter. Any color or combination of colors is allowed.
History
It is believed that Chinese mariners sailed with this breed believed to have evolved from African hairless dogs on board. During the time of the Chinese plagues, hairless dogs were stowed aboard ships to hunt vermin. By the mid-nineteenth century, Cresteds began appearing in European art, and entries of the breed in American dog shows began in the late 1800s.
Temperament
The Crested is prone to more frequent skin irritations, allergies, and sunburn than a coated dog would experience, and its owner should always take precautions to prevent this. Although no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Cresteds shed little to no hair and are on AKC’s list of breeds recommended for those with allergies. They are also alert and playful companions and do well in families with gentle children.
- Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1991.
- Ideal size is 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Companion; ratter.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
- Do not tolerate cold.
- Be careful in direct sunlight.
Exercise
- Daily light walk.
- Love to play.
Grooming
- Daily careful brushing.
- May need skin moisturizing.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
- Little to no shedding.
