The Graceful Powderpuff Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested dog is a very interesting breed. They are the only breed that can be born with or without hair. When a litter of Chinese Crested dogs are born, there is a chance that 25 percent of the litter will be born without hair. This is due to an incomplete dominant trait. Hairless and Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs will look like they are from a different litter. They may also look like they could be from different breeds. While the hairless has no to very little hair, the Powderpuff will have a soft and fine thick double coat.
A Powderpuff’s appearance can vary depending on how they are groomed. If their hair is kept long and grown out, they can strongly resemble a Terrier. The Powderpuff Chinese Crested dog requires frequent brushing to avoid matting. Their hair does not continuously grow as long as other breeds; however, at its maximum length their hair can be relatively long. This toy dog is ideally 11 to 13 inches long, and weights approximately 10 pounds.
The Chinese Crested dog originated in Africa. They were initially called “African Hairless Terriers.” Chinese trading ships routes would have them stopping in Africa along their way. Story has it that these ships had acquired these dogs, because they make excellent ratters aboard ship. It was about this time that they renamed the breed “Chinese Crested.” The first time the Powderpuff Chinese Crested dog appeared west was in 1885. Around the 1920’s, the “Crest Haven” kennel purposely begun to breed and document their lineage. They also become known as the true Chinese Crested dogs that you see today. Their first American breed club was not established until 1979. They were not fully recognized by the AKC until 1991.
The Powderpuff Chinese Crested dogs are extremely sweet, lively, playful and cuddly. They make excellent family dogs, especially if you have younger children. These dogs are affectionate and exceptionally loving to children. The Powderpuff Chinese Crested breed makes an entertaining companion; they are not known for their barking. They frequently become extremely attached to their owners and enjoy constant companionship. They are very intelligent and alert. You will find that they like to dig big holes and climb, so backyards everywhere beware. They are also very elegant and graceful, and have the ability perform do tricks. They will make a very lively dog to have around the house.