Chinese Crested (Hairless) dogs

The smallest of the hairless breeds, the Chinese Crested usually weighs between 6 and 8 pounds. This light, graceful dog is devoid of hair, except for fringes on the feet and tail tip, and the flowing crest on its head that gives the breed its name. But even though the coat is minimal, the Chinese Crested is still a colorful animal. The skin may be blue, pink, lilac, golden, spotted or self-colored. Nor are the shades static. The colors are said to become more intense in the summer and lighter in the winter. Dogs of this type have been known in the West Indies and Central and South America for about five centuries but are no longer found in China, where they were once the favored pets of the Mandarins. The Chinese Crested's silky skin feels particularly warm to the touch, but contrary to folklore, the breed's body temperature is no higher than any other dog's. Perhaps it's just that lacking an insulating coat, the warmth is more apparent. Not all Chinese Cresteds are hairless. A fully coated dog, known as a powderpuff, is frequently born in an otherwise hairless litter. The Chinese Crested stands 11 to 13 inches at the shoulder and will make itself at home anywhere. Weekly grooming will keep the skin or powderpuff coat in good condition, but hairless Cresteds should be protected from sunburn. The Crested's activity level is moderate, and exercise requirements can be met with short daily walks or playtimes. These dogs get along well with children, and they are good watchdogs.