Chinese Cresteds are devoted, people-glued little companions that come in two looks — hairless (smooth skin with tufts) and the fully-coated powderpuff. The hairless variety needs real skin care: sunscreen, moisturiser, warmth in winter and protection from cold. They’re sensitive and dislike being alone. Lively and trainable, they suit a gentle, attentive home willing to manage the skin (or coat) needs of this unusual breed.
Chinese Crested
- Vet-reviewed by Dr. Amara Okafor, DVM
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A striking, fine-boned charmer that comes hairless or as a fluffy 'powderpuff' — affectionate, lively and famously velcro, bonding almost obsessively to its person.
Temperament
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Sensitive
- Playful
- Devoted
Likes
- Being glued to their person
- Warmth and soft beds
- Gentle play
- Sunbathing (with sun protection)
Dislikes
- Being left alone
- Cold weather
- Sunburn (hairless skin)
- Rough handling
Habits & quirks
- Velcro attachment to one person
- Climbing into laps
- Pawing for attention
- Needing skin or coat care
Great for
- Attentive homes (someone usually around)
- Apartment dwellers
- Owners who'll manage skin/coat care
- Gentle households
Think twice if…
- Owners away all day
- Cold or very sunny climates without care
- Homes with rough kids
- People wanting a wash-and-go dog
Chinese Crested: quick answers
How big does the Chinese Crested get?
An adult Chinese Crested typically weighs 4–5 kg and stands around 23–33 cm at the shoulder — a small breed.
How long does the Chinese Crested live?
13–15 years is typical for the Chinese Crested. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the Chinese Crested good with kids?
The Chinese Crested rates a middling 3/5 on our family-friendliness scale. With early socialisation, training and supervision many do fine with children — the individual dog matters more than the breed.
Does the Chinese Crested shed a lot?
Not much — the Chinese Crested is a light shedder (1/5 on our scale), one of the easier breeds for keeping hair under control.
Is the Chinese Crested easy to train?
Reasonably — the Chinese Crested rates 3/5 for trainability. Consistency, patience and positive reinforcement get you there.
Can the Chinese Crested live in an apartment?
Yes — the Chinese Crested can do well in an apartment as long as its exercise needs are met with daily walks and play.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
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Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
