Chinese Crestese
Crested Malt
The Chinese Crestese is a charming mix of the Chinese Crested and Maltese breeds. As both parent breeds are small, you can anticipate that your Chinese Crestese will also be on the petite side, usually weighing around 9 pounds and standing approximately 10 inches tall. This breed boasts a long, luxurious coat that comes in a wide range of colors, such as white, cream, gray, brown, black, red, and various combinations of these hues. While they are typically friendly and cheerful, they can also show a stubborn side, which may pose challenges during training. Furthermore, they might not be the ideal choice for families with young children, making early socialization during puppyhood crucial for developing positive interactions with other pets.
Breed Origin
The Chinese Crested breed's origins are a topic of much discussion, with some sources claiming it dates back to the 1200s, where it was originally used as a bed warmer by the Aztecs. There are theories suggesting it may be a cross between the Chihuahua and the Mexican Hairless dog, while others argue that it originated in Africa in the 1300s and was later transported to China via merchant ships, which helped it gain international recognition. Nevertheless, evidence points to the breed's existence in China before the 1200s, leaving its true beginnings ambiguous. In the 1800s, artworks and photographs indicated that the Chinese Crested was present in Europe as early as the 13th century. The breed became popular in the United States largely due to breeder Ida Garrett, who introduced it to American audiences. Additionally, the famous performer Gypsy Rose Lee is said to have contributed to its popularity. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Chinese Crested in 1991, ranking it as the 77th most popular dog breed in the nation. In contrast, the Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds, with its history dating back to 1500 BC when Phoenician sailors first encountered it on the Island of Malta. Italian breeders later enriched the breed's lineage with Poodle and Miniature Spaniel genetics, resulting in a variety of colors. Today, the Maltese is renowned for its long, silky white coat and small size. By the 14th century, this breed had become a favorite among wealthy English women, who often carried the tiny dogs in their sleeves. The Maltese was officially registered with the AKC in 1888 and currently holds the position of the 33rd most popular dog breed in the United States.
Breed Appearance
The Chinese Crested breed can have either long or short hair, depending on its genetic background. When one parent is a hairless Chinese Crested, the resulting puppies usually have a short, single coat. In contrast, if the parent is a powderpuff, the puppies are likely to have a long, double-layered fur. This breed is characterized by a face reminiscent of a Terrier, floppy ears, elongated legs, and a compact body. Their tails are typically long and fluffy, enhancing their overall friendly and inviting appearance. Chinese Cresteds often exhibit a variety of colors, with the most common shades being white, cream, gray, brown, black, and red.
Care Routine
Given the long fur of your Chinese Crested, regular grooming every few days is crucial. Utilize a stiff bristle brush along with a metal comb for this task. When encountering any tangles, gently use your fingers to untangle them without damaging her coat. You may bathe her with a mild shampoo as necessary, but be careful not to overbathe, as this can result in dry skin. It's also vital to brush her teeth multiple times a week and to clean her ears weekly, watching for any indications of mites, redness, or waxy accumulation. Furthermore, don’t forget to trim her nails as needed.
Behavior & Temperament
While the Chinese Crested is fond of being around children, they might find it challenging to adjust to very young kids because of their petite stature and lively disposition. They enjoy the company of other pets but are not keen on competing for attention. Their somewhat stubborn nature means that training can take time and require patience. To achieve effective training, consistency and plenty of positive reinforcement are crucial. Many pet owners have success with puppy pads in the early stages of house training. The Chinese Crested flourishes with love and attention, making them delightful companions for families.
Play & Exercise
This breed needs about 30 to 45 minutes of intense exercise each day, making it essential to take her for regular walks or runs. Your Chinese Crested will likely enjoy a range of activities, including hiking in the park, playing fetch, swimming, visiting the local dog park, participating in agility or competition training, and playing with a Frisbee. If you have a secure yard, she would probably love to spend a few hours playing outside, but remember that they thrive on human companionship. Aim to spend at least one to two hours each day with her. A lack of sufficient exercise can lead to boredom or anxiety, which may result in behavioral issues.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
0.0 Cups
Daily Activity
0 Minutes
Average Lifespan
11 Years
Origin
2002
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Not Set
Origin Country
United States
Brush Frequency
Daily
Coat Texture
Straight
Register
Your kids have been begging for a pet forever, and you've recently decided that it's time for your family to get a new addition -- a dog! While everyone is excited for the new arrival, you're wondering if you need to have a dog license. How much does it cost? Is it required? Where do you get one?
Member Clubs
PETINNATE
Other
Height & Weight
Weight
12 lbs (5 kg)Male: 12 lbs (5 kg) , Female: 11 lbs (5 kg)
Height
10 inches (25 sm)Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 10 inches (25 sm)