Fetch Finder

Breed guide

Chinese Crested

A toy breed that comes hairless or fully coated (the Powderpuff). Playful, loving and very attached.

A Chinese Crested
Photo: Tommy Gildseth · CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
SizeSmall
Weight8–12 lb
Lifespan13–18 years
Yearly cost$1,000–$2,200*
Better with adults or older kids Can be impatient, fragile or protective around young kids.

At a glance

Energy level
Shedding
Grooming needs
Apartment-friendly
Handles cold
Affectionate / cuddly
Good with kids
Good for first-time owners
Easy to train
Good with other dogs
Good with cats
OK being left alone
Reliable off-leash
Protective / watchdog
Barking
Drooling

Great for

  • Apartments
  • People with allergies (hairless type)
  • Seniors and adults

Watch out for

  • Hairless type needs sunscreen and winter clothes
  • Separation anxiety
  • Fragile

Daily care

Exercise: 30 minutes a day.

Grooming: Hairless: skin care. Powderpuff: daily brushing.

Cold weather: Needs a sweater indoors and a coat outdoors in winter.

*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.

Gear for a Chinese Crested

Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Find a Chinese Crested near you

We're building a list of trusted Chinese Crested rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.

Listings coming soon. In the meantime:

Run a Chinese Crested rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.

Not sure a Chinese Crested is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.

Take the breed quiz

Similar breeds