The Chinese Crested is a small, elegant breed known for its distinctive appearance, affectionate personality, and playful nature. Originating in China, this breed is believed to have been bred as a companion dog and was favored by sailors who valued its rat-catching abilities on ships. The Chinese Crested is particularly known for its unique look, featuring hairless and coated varieties, making it a breed that stands out in any crowd. Standing between 11 to 13 inches tall and weighing between 8 to 12 pounds, the Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. The Hairless variety has smooth, soft skin with tufts of hair on the head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks), while the Powderpuff variety has a full, soft double coat that covers its entire body. Both varieties can come in a range of colors and patterns. The breed’s expressive eyes and graceful build give it a delicate and elegant appearance. Chinese Cresteds are known for their affectionate, playful, and gentle demeanor. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on close companionship, often referred to as "velcro dogs" due to their tendency to stick close to their owners. Cresteds are social and friendly with children and other pets, making them a good fit for families, couples, and singles alike. Despite their elegant appearance, these dogs are spirited and enjoy playtime and interaction. Daily life with a Chinese Crested involves light exercise and regular companionship. These dogs enjoy short walks, indoor playtime, and plenty of cuddle time. Due to their small size and moderate energy levels, Chinese Cresteds are well-suited for apartment living. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train using positive reinforcement techniques. However, like many small breeds, they can have a stubborn streak, so patience and consistency are key. Caring for a Chinese Crested depends on the variety. Hairless Cresteds require special skin care, including regular moisturizing and sun protection, as their exposed skin is sensitive to dryness and sunburn. Powderpuffs need regular brushing to keep their double coat free of mats and tangles. Both varieties benefit from regular ear cleaning, dental care, and nail trimming to maintain their overall health. A balanced diet suited to their size and activity level helps keep them in good shape.