Chinese Crested: The Unique and Loving Companion

The Chinese Crested is a unique and affectionate companion breed known for its elegant appearance, lively personality, and strong attachment to its family. Available in both the hairless and powderpuff varieties, the Chinese Crested was developed as a companion dog and is admired for its playful temperament, intelligence, and loving nature. These sensitive and highly social dogs thrive on close human interaction and do best with owners who can provide companionship, gentle training, and a stable indoor environment where they feel secure and included. Chinese Cresteds are typically alert, entertaining, and eager to please, making them excellent companions for individuals, seniors, and families seeking a devoted indoor pet. With their distinctive appearance, affectionate personality, and adaptable size, the Chinese Crested is a wonderful choice for owners looking for a loving companion dog with plenty of charm and individuality.

⭐ 3 Things You May Not Know About the Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff, and both can appear in the same litter.
Despite the breed’s name, Chinese Cresteds likely descended from African hairless dogs that were later refined in China.
Chinese Cresteds were often carried aboard ships to help control rats and vermin during long voyages.

Overview

Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 5-12 pounds
Coat Types: Hairless and Powderpuff
Colors: A variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and cream
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Temperament: Loving, energetic, alert, and affectionate
Group: Toy Group

🐾 Quick Facts About the Chinese Crested

Energy Level: Moderate — Chinese Cresteds enjoy playtime, walks, and close interaction with their families.
Grooming Needs: Moderate to High — Hairless varieties require regular skin care, while Powderpuffs need frequent brushing.
Good With Kids: Yes, with gentle handling — Chinese Cresteds are affectionate and sensitive companions.
Trainability: High — Intelligent and eager to please, they respond very well to positive reinforcement training.
Barking Level: Moderate — Chinese Cresteds may bark to alert their family or express excitement.

History & Origin

The Chinese Crested is a unique companion breed known for its hairless appearance, elegant build, and affectionate personality. Despite its name, the breed’s exact origins remain somewhat uncertain, with historians believing that hairless dogs of similar type may have existed in Africa or other tropical regions long before becoming associated with China. Chinese traders and sailors are believed to have carried these small hairless dogs aboard ships, where they were valued for controlling rats and vermin during long voyages.

Over time, the breed became closely linked with Chinese maritime trade routes, eventually gaining the name “Chinese Crested.” Sailors often traded or gifted the dogs in ports around the world, helping spread the breed internationally. Their small size, alert nature, and ability to thrive in warmer climates made them practical companions aboard ships as well as affectionate household pets.

The breed developed in two varieties: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. Even within the same litter, both coat types can occur due to the genetics associated with the hairless trait. The Hairless variety became especially admired for its unusual appearance, with soft exposed skin combined with tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail. The Powderpuff variety retains a full silky coat but shares the same elegant structure and personality.

The Chinese Crested eventually gained popularity as a companion and show dog because of its affectionate nature, lively personality, and distinctive appearance. Modern Chinese Cresteds still display many traits shaped by centuries of close interaction with people, including sensitivity, intelligence, alertness, and strong attachment to their families. Beneath the breed’s delicate appearance and unusual coat lies a spirited and highly devoted companion dog with a long and fascinating international history.

Breed Traits & Personality

The Chinese Crested is a small companion breed best known for its unusual appearance, elegant build, and affectionate personality. The breed comes in two distinct varieties within the same litter: the hairless variety and the Powderpuff variety. Both share the same graceful structure, refined movement, and expressive features.

The Hairless Chinese Crested has smooth exposed skin across most of the body, with soft flowing hair typically appearing on the head, feet, and tail. These areas create the breed’s distinctive “crest,” “socks,” and “plume” appearance. Skin texture may vary from soft and silky to slightly fine-grained depending on the individual dog and environmental conditions.

The Powderpuff variety possesses a full soft double coat with a fine veil-like texture that gives the breed an elegant and airy appearance. Despite the dramatic visual difference between the two coat types, both share the same body structure and overall breed characteristics.

The Chinese Crested has a slender, fine-boned frame combined with surprising agility and athleticism. The body is slightly longer than tall with graceful neck carriage, moderate chest depth, and light but balanced movement. The breed should appear refined and elegant without looking fragile or weak.

One of the breed’s most recognizable features is its expressive face, which includes dark almond-shaped eyes, large upright ears, and a slightly elongated muzzle that contributes to the breed’s alert and intelligent expression. Some individuals may naturally have drop ears, especially among Powderpuffs.

Coat and skin coloration vary tremendously and may include black, pink, chocolate, slate, cream, spotted patterns, or mixed pigmentation. Hairless individuals often develop freckles or changing skin tones as they mature and experience sun exposure.

The breed’s movement is smooth, light, and graceful, reflecting both agility and companion-dog refinement. Although delicate in appearance, the Chinese Crested is surprisingly quick, agile, and capable of active play.

Because Hairless Chinese Cresteds lack full body coat protection, their skin is highly exposed to environmental conditions including sunburn, dryness, cold temperatures, and skin irritation. Proper skin care and weather protection are important parts of maintaining the breed’s health and comfort.

Overall, the Chinese Crested combines elegance, individuality, sensitivity, and affectionate companion-dog charm in one of the most visually distinctive breeds in the dog world.

For a broader comparison of how this breed’s size compares to others, see our Dog Size & Weight Guide.

Temperament & Personality

The Chinese Crested is known for being affectionate, emotionally sensitive, playful, and deeply attached to its family. This breed thrives on companionship and often forms extremely close emotional bonds with its owners.

Many Chinese Cresteds become highly devoted “velcro dogs” that prefer staying physically close to their people whenever possible. They often enjoy cuddling, lap time, blankets, and constant interaction with trusted family members.

The breed is generally cheerful, entertaining, and expressive, frequently displaying playful behavior and humorous personality traits that make them highly engaging companions. Many owners describe the breed as emotionally intuitive and strongly connected to household moods and routines.

Chinese Cresteds are typically gentle and affectionate with family members, although some individuals may initially appear cautious or reserved around unfamiliar people. Early socialization is important to encourage confidence and reduce nervousness or excessive shyness.

Because the breed is emotionally sensitive, harsh handling or chaotic environments may contribute to anxiety or insecurity. Calm leadership, positive interaction, and stable routines usually help the Chinese Crested feel emotionally comfortable and secure.

The breed generally adapts well to apartment living and smaller homes due to its compact size and moderate exercise requirements. However, companionship is extremely important, and many Chinese Cresteds do not tolerate long periods of isolation particularly well.

Some individuals may develop separation anxiety, clinginess, or vocal behavior if left alone too frequently without proper emotional balance and structure.

The Chinese Crested is often friendly with other dogs and may coexist well with cats and smaller household pets when properly socialized. Their social temperament and playful curiosity usually make them adaptable companions in multi-pet households.

Despite their elegant appearance, many Chinese Cresteds possess lively personalities and surprising athletic ability. They often enjoy interactive games, climbing furniture, playful bursts of speed, and participating closely in daily household activities.

In the right environment, the Chinese Crested becomes an affectionate, emotionally connected, entertaining companion breed that thrives on closeness, comfort, and human interaction.

For a broader overview of personality differences between breed groups, visit our Dog Breed Temperament Guide

Exercise & Training Needs

The Chinese Crested is a moderately active breed that benefits from daily exercise, mental stimulation, and regular social interaction. Although not considered a high-endurance working breed, the Chinese Crested still requires consistent activity to remain physically healthy and emotionally balanced.

Daily walks, indoor play sessions, gentle interactive games, and mentally engaging activities are usually sufficient to meet the breed’s exercise needs. Many Chinese Cresteds enjoy puzzle toys, trick training, short play sessions, and learning routines that involve close interaction with their owners.

The breed is intelligent and generally capable of learning quickly, especially when training remains positive, gentle, and reward-based. Praise, treats, encouragement, and calm consistency usually produce excellent results.

Because the Chinese Crested is emotionally sensitive, harsh corrections or forceful training methods may damage trust and create anxiety or defensive behavior. Positive reinforcement and patient guidance are especially important for maintaining confidence and emotional security.

Early socialization plays a major role in helping the breed develop confidence around unfamiliar people, sounds, environments, and situations. Controlled positive exposure during puppyhood often helps reduce nervousness and improves overall adaptability.

House training may occasionally require patience and consistency, particularly with smaller companion breeds that can be sensitive to cold or wet outdoor conditions.

The Chinese Crested generally adapts very well to apartment living provided its exercise, companionship, and mental stimulation needs are consistently met. The breed’s small size and adaptable activity level make it suitable for many different living situations.

Despite its delicate appearance, the breed often performs surprisingly well in activities such as agility, obedience, trick training, and canine sports that emphasize responsiveness and coordination.

Because Hairless individuals are sensitive to temperature extremes, outdoor exercise should be adjusted during very hot, cold, or sunny conditions to prevent skin irritation or discomfort.

For owners seeking an affectionate, trainable, entertaining companion with moderate exercise needs and strong emotional connection, the Chinese Crested can become an exceptionally rewarding breed.

Learn more on our Dog Training Page.

Grooming Requirements

Grooming and skin-care requirements for the Chinese Crested vary significantly depending on whether the dog is Hairless or Powderpuff, although both varieties require consistent maintenance to remain healthy and comfortable.

Hairless Chinese Cresteds require regular skin care rather than traditional coat grooming. Their exposed skin should be cleaned gently and monitored for dryness, irritation, acne, clogged pores, or sun sensitivity. Many owners use moisturizing products specifically designed for sensitive canine skin.

Because the breed lacks natural coat protection across much of the body, Hairless individuals are highly vulnerable to sunburn and cold temperatures. Sunscreen formulated for dogs, lightweight clothing, sweaters, and weather protection are often necessary depending on climate conditions.

The hair present on the crest, feet, and tail requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and maintain healthy texture and appearance. Some owners also choose to shave or trim certain areas for cleanliness and presentation.

The Powderpuff variety requires more traditional grooming due to its soft flowing double coat. Regular brushing several times per week is necessary to prevent tangles, matting, and coat breakage. Pin brushes, combs, and gentle detangling tools are commonly used for maintenance.

Bathing is typically needed regularly for both coat varieties. Hairless individuals often require more frequent bathing to manage skin oils and cleanliness, while Powderpuffs benefit from coat maintenance baths that help preserve coat texture and reduce tangling.

Routine care should also include nail trimming, dental hygiene, ear cleaning, and monitoring for skin irritation or dryness. Dental care is especially important because smaller breeds may be more prone to tartar buildup and dental disease.

Some Chinese Cresteds may experience skin sensitivities, allergies, or dental issues that require ongoing attention throughout life. Maintaining healthy skin condition is particularly important for the Hairless variety.

With proper grooming, skin care, and regular maintenance, the Chinese Crested maintains its elegant appearance, healthy skin and coat condition, and distinctive companion-dog charm throughout its life.

Learn more on our Dog Grooming Page.

Health Overview & Testing

The Chinese Crested is a small, affectionate, and highly distinctive companion breed known for its elegant appearance, expressive personality, and strong attachment to its family. Best known in its hairless variety, though also available in the coated “Powderpuff” form, the Chinese Crested is generally considered a long-lived and adaptable breed, but like many toy breeds and hairless dogs, it can still be prone to certain inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Chinese Crested health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines delicate bone structure, exposed skin in the hairless variety, toy-breed anatomy, and sensitive body temperature regulation, maintaining healthy skin, dental health, joint stability, eye condition, and overall body condition is especially important throughout the dog’s life.

Health issues sometimes seen in Chinese Cresteds may include patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), glaucoma, dry eye, dental disease, allergies, skin irritation, acne, sun sensitivity, autoimmune skin conditions, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Some individuals may also develop eye injuries, temperature sensitivity, or obesity-related joint stress later in life. Hairless Chinese Cresteds are especially prone to missing teeth and abnormal dentition because the gene associated with hairlessness also affects dental development. While not every Chinese Crested will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, grooming, skin care, nutrition, and preventive veterinary care.

Health Testing & Responsible Breeding

Responsible Chinese Crested breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Chinese Crested, careful attention to orthopedic, eye, dental, skin, and overall structural health is especially valuable.

Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed patella evaluations and ophthalmologist-performed eye examinations. Responsible breeders may also discuss skin health, dentition quality, orthopedic longevity, autoimmune concerns, and overall lifespan within their bloodlines. Some breeders may additionally utilize genetic testing for inherited eye disorders or other hereditary conditions when appropriate depending on pedigree history.

At this time, Chinese Crested breeder health testing relies primarily on veterinary evaluations, orthopedic screening, eye certification, and long-term pedigree knowledge rather than a large number of breed-specific DNA panels. However, responsible breeders should still be willing to openly discuss inherited health concerns within their breeding program and explain the purpose of any testing they perform. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Chinese Crested involves much more than maintaining appearance or rarity — it also includes protecting healthy movement, skin wellness, stable temperament, and long-term quality of life.

Before Chinese Crested puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, eyes, knees, bite alignment, skin condition, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because toy-breed puppies are physically delicate and hairless puppies may require specialized skin care, careful early monitoring is especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, skin-care recommendations, and instructions for safe socialization and training during development.

A responsible Chinese Crested breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.

Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness

Maintaining healthy body condition is especially important for the Chinese Crested because excess weight places additional strain on the knees, spine, and overall mobility. Although naturally elegant and lightweight, Chinese Cresteds should remain lean and properly conditioned rather than overweight. Balanced nutrition, portion control, and regular moderate exercise all help support long-term orthopedic health and wellness.

Skin care is especially important in hairless Chinese Cresteds because exposed skin may be vulnerable to dryness, acne, irritation, sunburn, and environmental sensitivity. Many owners use gentle skin-care routines, pet-safe sunscreen when appropriate, and seasonal clothing to help protect the skin and regulate body temperature.

Dental care is also extremely important because many Chinese Cresteds, especially hairless individuals, may have missing teeth, weak enamel, or abnormal tooth development. Routine brushing, professional dental evaluations, and early oral care can help reduce long-term discomfort and disease.

The Chinese Crested is also a highly people-oriented breed that benefits from companionship and emotional stability. Without enough social interaction and structure, some individuals may become anxious, clingy, vocal, or emotionally sensitive.

Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring eye condition, mobility, skin health, dental wellness, hearing, and overall quality of life. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved outcomes.

Lifespan & Senior Chinese Crested Care

The Chinese Crested often lives approximately 13 to 18 years or longer when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Chinese Cresteds may gradually develop arthritis, hearing decline, vision changes, dental disease, reduced stamina, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more sensitive to cold temperatures or skin irritation during the senior years.

As Chinese Cresteds enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, supportive bedding, dental care, skin monitoring, temperature management, and routine wellness evaluations. Because the breed often remains emotionally connected and affectionate throughout life, continued companionship and gentle interaction remain especially important even during old age.

With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Chinese Cresteds continue to thrive as affectionate, entertaining, and deeply devoted companions throughout their lives.

Is This Breed Right for You?

The Chinese Crested is an affectionate, intelligent, and highly people-oriented companion breed known for its playful personality, unique appearance, and strong emotional connection with its family. Originally bred primarily as a companion dog, the Chinese Crested thrives on closeness, interaction, and companionship.

While loving and entertaining, the Chinese Crested is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:

✔ Ideal for:

People seeking a highly affectionate and interactive companion dog
Owners able to provide companionship and regular interaction
Homes willing to manage skin care and dental care carefully
Families wanting a playful and emotionally connected toy breed
People looking for a small adaptable breed for indoor living

❌ Not Ideal for:

People unwilling to manage ongoing skin-care needs
Homes where the dog will frequently be left alone for long periods
Owners seeking a highly independent companion dog
People unprepared for dental maintenance and veterinary monitoring
Homes with rough handling or unsupervised very young children

Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue

If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.

Find a Reliable Rescue:

Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.

Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.

Find a Responsible Breeder:

Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.

Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.

Puppy Considerations

Chinese Crested puppies are playful, curious, and highly people-oriented from an early age. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are important to help puppies develop confidence, emotional stability, and good manners.

Because these puppies are physically delicate and emotionally sensitive, careful handling and early positive experiences are especially important. Hairless puppies may also require special skin-care attention during development.

Puppies benefit from:

Early socialization with people, dogs, sounds, and environments
Positive reinforcement training and gentle guidance
Moderate exercise appropriate for toy-breed development
Regular handling for skin care, grooming, and veterinary visits
Mentally stimulating activities and supervised interactive play

Because Chinese Crested puppies often form strong emotional attachments to their families, early independence training and positive social exposure can help support balanced long-term behavior.

Living With a Chinese Crested

Living with a Chinese Crested is often rewarding for owners who appreciate affectionate, entertaining, and emotionally connected companion dogs. These dogs generally form extremely strong bonds with their families and often prefer staying close to their people throughout the day.

The Chinese Crested typically requires moderate daily exercise and enjoys walks, indoor play, cuddling, training sessions, and social interaction. Although playful and energetic, the breed is usually highly adaptable to different living environments as long as companionship needs are met.

This breed generally does best in homes where it receives companionship, structure, and regular interaction. Without enough social engagement, some individuals may become anxious, vocal, clingy, or emotionally distressed.

Although affectionate and loving with family members, Chinese Cresteds may sometimes be reserved around strangers or sensitive to rough handling. Early socialization and responsible ownership are important for helping the breed develop into a confident and stable adult.

Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting mobility, skin wellness, dental health, and overall quality of life. Routine veterinary care, exercise, grooming, training, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.

Final Thoughts…

The Chinese Crested is an affectionate, intelligent, and deeply devoted companion breed that thrives with owners who appreciate close emotional connection and interactive companionship. Their playful nature, unique appearance, and loyal personality make them unforgettable companions in the right homes.

With proper preventive care, socialization, training, skin care, and companionship, the Chinese Crested can become a deeply rewarding and highly devoted lifelong companion.

Are you considering adding a Chinese Crested to your family?

🐶 Chinese Crested FAQs

How long do Chinese Cresteds live?

Chinese Cresteds typically have a lifespan of 13 to 18 years. With proper nutrition, routine veterinary care, and good dental hygiene, many live long, healthy lives. Because this breed can have dental and skin sensitivities, regular care is especially important.

What is the Chinese Crested temperament like?

Chinese Cresteds are known for being affectionate, alert, and people-oriented. They form very close bonds with their owners and enjoy being constant companions. This breed is lively and playful but also enjoys cuddling and quiet time.

Are Chinese Cresteds good family dogs?

Chinese Cresteds can make excellent family dogs in households that appreciate close companionship. They typically do best with older children who understand gentle handling. Their sensitive nature makes them best suited to calm, loving environments.

Do Chinese Cresteds shed a lot?

Shedding depends on coat type. Hairless Chinese Cresteds shed very little, while Powderpuff Cresteds shed lightly. Hairless varieties require special skin care, including protection from sun exposure and dry skin.

Are Chinese Cresteds easy to train?

Chinese Cresteds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle, consistent training. Early socialization helps build confidence and prevent shyness.

Similar Breeds You Might Like

If you’re interested in the Chinese Crested, you may also enjoy learning about these similar small companion breeds:

Brussels Griffon – Similar, people-oriented, expressive companion type
Italian Greyhound – A slender, affectionate companion breed valued for closeness and sensitivity.
Papillon – A lively toy breed known for intelligence, alertness, and strong attachment to owners.
This breed is often chosen by owners looking to minimize loose hair in the home — see our guide to Low-Shedding Dog Breeds for more options.

🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Chinese Cresteds

As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.

If you have a Chinese Crested or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.

🛏️ 1. Dog Beds

👉 My Tip: Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)

One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.

For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.

I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.

* Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.

* Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.

* Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.

✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Chinese Crested Coat

Chinese Cresteds come in two varieties—Hairless and Powderpuff—so grooming needs vary depending on coat type.

Hairless Chinese Cresteds require regular skin care rather than coat brushing. A soft cloth or sponge can be used for gentle cleaning, and mild dog-safe moisturizers may help prevent dry skin. Sunscreen for dogs may also be needed when spending time outdoors.

Powderpuff Chinese Cresteds have a soft, silky coat that benefits from regular brushing with a gentle slicker brush or pin brush to prevent tangles, along with a metal comb for detail work around feathered areas.

Regular grooming:

Helps maintain healthy skin and coat
Prevents tangles in the Powderpuff variety
Keeps the dog clean and comfortable

🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)

Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.
Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.

Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.

👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels

I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.

It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.

🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation

Chinese Cresteds are intelligent, so giving them something to do is important.

An enrichment toy can help:

Prevent boredom
Reduce unwanted behaviors
Keep their mind engaged

When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.

🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash

From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.

Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.

Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.

Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.

👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes

I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.

💡 Lisa’s Tip:

You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.

🔎 Affiliate Note

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Learn more about responsible dog ownership, dog health and daily care:

Written by Lisa Puskas — Author and founder of Dog-Breeds.net with 50+ years of hands-on experience raising, showing, and training dogs. She is dedicated to preserving dog breeds, educating responsible ownership, and supporting rescue organizations by helping improve long-term adoption success.

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