Chinese Crested Dog
A distinctive toy companion that comes in a near-hairless variety and a fully coated 'Powderpuff'. Affectionate, playful and people-oriented, but the bare skin needs sun and cold protection.
Overview
A distinctive toy companion that comes in a near-hairless variety and a fully coated 'Powderpuff'. Affectionate, playful and people-oriented, but the bare skin needs sun and cold protection.
Good to know — a Chinese Crested Dog is flat-friendly and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Chinese Crested Dog is fine with sensible, older children and generally fine with other dogs. They tend to be a moderate barker, and as a guide they are good for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with older, respectful children
- Committed first-time owners
- Flats or houses with daily exercise
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Chinese Crested Dog typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is regular brushing and shedding is minimal. Brush regularly (a few times a week) to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Chinese Crested Dog should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a toy breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Very low shedding and apartment-friendly
- Devoted, affectionate companion
Things to consider
- Hairless variety needs skin and temperature care
- Sensitive and can be clingy or anxious if left alone
Similar breeds
Yorkshire Terrier
A tiny, feisty toy terrier with a big personality — ideal for flats but delicate around small children.
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Chihuahua
The world’s smallest breed — devoted, sassy and perfect for flats, but not the easiest with young children.
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Pomeranian
A lively, fox-faced toy dog with a luxurious coat — bold and fun, but tiny and quite vocal.
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Italian Greyhound
A tiny, elegant sighthound — affectionate, clean and quiet, but delicate and sensitive.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Chinese Crested Dogs good with children?
Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide, Chinese Crested Dogs tend to be fine with sensible, older children. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Chinese Crested Dog need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Chinese Crested Dog needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Chinese Crested Dogs shed a lot?
Minimal shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Chinese Crested Dogs easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Chinese Crested Dogs are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Chinese Crested Dogs bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Chinese Crested Dogs good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Chinese Crested Dogs suit flats or smaller homes?
Flat-friendly. A Chinese Crested Dog can adapt to flat living as long as it gets its daily exercise and company.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.