Chinese Crested

Size: 10-15 inches, 8 to 15 lbs

Color: Any including exotics. Mostly lighter colors

Energy Level: High

Life expectancy: 14-16 yrs

Children: Not appropriate for children under 6 yrs of age.

Other animals: Enjoy the company of other small dogs. Can be inappropriate with cats.

Abilities: Smart, easy to train, hunts small rodents.

Shedding/Grooming: Hypo-allergenic, no shedding. Occassional light shedding with Powderpuffs

Health: Hairless can have skin problems. Luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps)

Best with: Fenced yard, Indoors only unless pottying, need lots of attention.

Not for: Small children, big dogs.

Pros: Easy to train, eager to please

Cons: More athletic than you would think, will take off after small prey, need to be protected from the elements.

General info: Chinese Cresteds are a wonderful alternative to the Poodle for those that need a hypoallergenic dog. They are very smart and easy to train. Most of the rescue dogs are not good with children under age 6. They do need room to burn off energy and with any other "ratter", should not be trusted off a leash. There are very few Cresties around in our cold climate. They would need a coat and must be indoors only, except for potty breaks. I may see one or two Cresties per year in Seattle. Many are available through the National Rescue. Consider that your Crestie will average $200/yr and up for vet care, including a dental.