These unique little dogs come in two varieties – the Hairless and the Powder Puff. The Hairless have a crest of hair on their head extending part way down their neck, ‘socks’ covering their toes, and a plume on their tail. The rest of their body is, as their name implies, hairless, and moisturisers are frequently used to keep the skin fine and supple. The ‘Powder Puff’ variety is covered entirely with a veil of long soft hair. Both varieties come in a mixture of colours, and can be plain or spotted. This is most definitely a breed for the connoisseur.

While it is difficult to pinpoint their origin, it is said that these dogs were owned by families of the Han Dynasty of China. The Chinese Cresteds were developed at this time as guardians of the treasure houses and, in a larger, heavier form, as hunting dogs. They were seen at shows in America from 1885 to 1926 but then were rarely ever seen for some fifty years. They are a fastidious breed, keeping themselves scrupulously clean, and have no ‘doggy’ odour. Affectionate and intelligent, with a strong constitution, they make unique and delightful companions and are good watch dogs.