Chinese Crestese - Dog Breed Info, Temperament & Facts

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The Chinese Crestese is a wonderful mix between the Maltese and the Chinese Crested. Due to their parent breeds being small dogs, the Chinese Crestese is also a small dog. They typically weigh around 9 pounds and stand at about 10 inches tall. This breed has a long coat that can come in various colors such as white, cream, gray, brown, black, red, or a combination of any two of these colors.

While Chinese Crestese are generally content dogs, they may be a bit challenging to train. It is important to start their training as puppies and ensure they learn to get along with other animals, as they may not be the best fit for young children.

Below, we look at Chinese Crestese dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Chinese Crestese, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Chinese Cresteses!

Dog Breed Chinese Crestese
Size Small
Weight 10-12 lbs (average)
Height 8-11″ (average)
Location United States
Ancestry Chinese Crested, Maltese
Date of Origin 2002
Group Companion
Life Expectancy 14-18 years
Price $800 – $1000
Family Canidae
Scientific Name Canis Lupus Familiaris

📖 Breed History

The history of the Chinese Crested is a subject of controversy. Some suggest that the breed has been around since the 1200s and was used as a bed warmer by the Aztecs. Others believe it is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Mexican Hairless dog. Another theory states that the breed originated in Africa in the 1300s and was later acquired by the Chinese for trading purposes. However, evidence suggests that the breed existed in China even before the 1200s, making its exact origins uncertain. In the 1800s, paintings and photographs from Europe dating back to the 13th century depicted the Chinese Crested, further adding to its historical presence. The breed gained popularity in the United States when Ida Garrett, a breeder, introduced it to the American public. There are also stories that a famous stripper named Gypsy Rose Lee played a role in improving the breed. The Chinese Crested was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1991 and is now the 77th most popular dog breed in the United States.

The Maltese is one of the oldest known breeds, discovered when Phoenician sailors visited the Island of Malta in 1500 BC. The breed originated there and was later influenced by breeders in Italy who added Poodle and Miniature Spaniel to the bloodline. Back then, the Maltese came in various colors. Today, the breed is known for its small size and long, silky, white coat. In the 14th century, the Maltese became popular among wealthy English women, who carried these little dogs in their sleeves. The breed was registered by the American Kennel Club in 1888 and currently ranks as the 33rd most popular breed of dog.

🐕 Chinese Crestese Appearance

Depending on the status of the particular kind of Chinese Crested, the Chinese Crestese may have long or short hair. Your Chinese Crestese will have a short, single layer of fur if the parent was a hairless Chinese Crested, and a lengthy, double layered coat if the father was a powderpuff Chinese Crested. They are small in height, with long legs, and a face like a Terrier with floppy ears. They often have a long, hairy tail and an outward look that is open and inviting. This breed is typically multicolored, with the most prevalent hues being white, cream, gray, brown, black, and red.

👀 Eye Color Varies
🐽 Nose Color N/A
🐕 Coat Color Ranges

Fun Fact: Chinese Crestese dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.

🐶 Traits & Temperament of Chinese Crestese

The Chinese Crestese enjoy children, but due to their size and jitteriness, they do not accept small children well. Although they like the company of other animals, they dislike having to vie for the viewer’s attention. They might be difficult to teach because of their tendency to be stubborn, so you must have patience. For the best outcomes, stay consistent and provide lots of praise. When housebreaking a dog, many owners utilize puppy pads for the first several months. Your Chinese Crestese will require a lot of care and like cuddling, so they make wonderful family pets.

🤝 Are Chinese Cresteses Friendly or Aggressive?

Chinese Crestese dogs are known for being extremely friendly and sociable. They get along well with strangers, making them a great choice for those who enjoy meeting new people. They are also very good with children, making them a suitable breed for families with kids. Additionally, Chinese Crestese dogs are known to be cat-friendly and get along well with other dogs, making them a good choice for those who already have pets or want to have multiple dogs. Finally, they are often recommended for elderly people, as they can provide companionship and love to those in their later years.

This breed is known for being:

  • Active
  • Playful
  • Happy
  • Alert
  • Intelligent
  • Responsive
  • Docile
  • Affectionate
  • Lively
  • Gentle
  • Tempered
  • Sweet
  • Easygoing

🐩 Chinese Crestese Care & Maintenance

You will need to use a metal comb and a firm bristle brush to brush your Chinese Crestese’s long hair at least every other day. To avoid harming the coat, you should, however, use your fingers to disentangle the mats. Your Chinese Crestese can be given a gentle shampoo bath when necessary, but avoid bathing her too frequently as this can dry up her skin. She once a week cleans her ears and twice a week brushes her teeth. Keep an eye out for redness, waxy accumulation, and mites. You should also clip her nails as needed.

Chinese Crestese dogs are known for shedding very little to none at all. This means that if you have a puppy of this breed, you don’t have to worry about your furniture or car being covered in dog hair. If you have a low tolerance for dog hair, the Chinese Crestese could be the perfect choice for you. Additionally, these dogs typically only need to be bathed every 6-8 weeks.

🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or approximately $30.00 a month.

🐾 Exercise: Chinese Crestese dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.

Did you know: Chinese Crestese dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

❤️‍🩹 Chinese Crestese Health & Issues

Some of the major concerns for Chinese Crestese Dog Breed can be:

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus

While minor concerns include:

  • Hemophilia
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
  • Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

🤧 Important: Is Chinese Crestese hypoallergenic? Yes.

Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Chinese Crestese.

⚡ Chinese Crestese Dog Breed Facts

What makes the Chinese Crestese a great choice for families with young children?
The Chinese Crestese is a great choice for families with young children because they are generally friendly and enjoy being around kids. However, they may not tolerate very young children well due to their small size and tendency to be jittery.

Is the Chinese Crestese breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Chinese Crestese breed is considered suitable for apartment living because they are small in size and do not require a large living space. They can adapt well to living in smaller spaces as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.

How much exercise does a Chinese Crestese require compared to other breeds?
The Chinese Crestese does not require a lot of exercise compared to some other breeds. They are generally active indoors and can meet their exercise needs with daily playtime and short walks. However, it is important to keep them mentally stimulated to prevent boredom.

Is the Chinese Crestese breed known for being good with other pets?
The Chinese Crestese breed is known to get along well with other pets, but proper socialization from a young age is important. They enjoy the company of other animals and can live harmoniously with them as long as they are introduced properly and given time to adjust.

What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Chinese Crestese?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Chinese Crestese include the Maltese, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu. These breeds also have small sizes and require minimal grooming and exercise.

What are the common health issues that Chinese Cresteses are prone to?
Chinese Cresteses are prone to some common health issues such as dental problems, skin allergies, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage these issues.

Are Chinese Cresteses known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Chinese Cresteses can be stubborn and may take longer to train compared to some other breeds. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, they can be trained effectively.

Are Chinese Cresteses more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Chinese Cresteses may be more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and may become anxious when left alone for long periods. Proper training and gradually increasing alone time can help manage this.

Are there any dog breeds similar to the Chinese Crestese that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Chinese Crestese that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Poodle. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats and produce less dander, making them more suitable for allergy sufferers.

What sizes of dogs similar to the Chinese Crestese are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, small-sized dogs similar to the Chinese Crestese are best. Breeds like the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, and Yorkshire Terrier are compact and can easily adapt to living in smaller spaces.

Is the Chinese Crestese breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Chinese Crestese breed can be good with children with special needs, as long as they are introduced and socialized properly. However, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and child to ensure safety and teach the child how to interact appropriately with the dog.

How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Chinese Crestese?
The grooming needs of the Chinese Crestese are moderate compared to some other breeds. They have a long coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting, and occasional bathing to keep them clean. They are known to be low-shedding dogs, which can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a cleaner living environment.


We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Chinese Crestese dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.

Max Kozinskiy
Max Kozinskiy
Max Kozinskiy is a seasoned writer and an enthusiast of dog breed expertise. Having dedicated over 5 years to studying the intricacies of different dog breeds and their unique characteristics. His profound insights and love for our four-legged friends have made him an invaluable part of our DogsInsights.com team.

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