| History of the Chinese Cresteds Although the early beginnings of the breed is undocumented, some historians theorize that the breed is the result of crossing the Mexican Hairless and the Chihuahua while some believe that they orginated in Africa where they were called "African Hairless Terriers." However there is evidence that during the 16 th century and as early as 1530 that Chinese traders obtained Cresteds either in Mexico or Africa and kept them on their ships because they were excellent ratters they also sold them throughout the world. Because the dogs had no hair it is believed that the Chinese Emperors treasured the dogs and kept them for their "magical" healing properties. Because the dogs have no hair to insulate their bodies, they would place the hairless pup on an aching arm producing a portable heating pad effect. This made the dogs "magical" as well as "medical". Others believed the hairless dogs were eaten as a delicacy. Chinese Cresteds come in two types. The hairless, which can carry varying amounts of hair on their bodies, carries a "crest" somewhat like a mane of hair on the head and neck as well as on the legs and tail, and the Powder Puff which has a soft non shedding coat that covers the body. This little dog
is truly a treasure to have around. As a pet they do not shed, are odorless
and generally rugged and healthy. They are gay and very agile little clowns
that when running around the yard look very much, as children call then
"little pony dogs". They are very charming and their clown like antics
melt the heart and make you smile. They are very intelligent breed of dog
that can use their feet like hands to cling to objects. They are an alternative
for people who don't enjoy grooming or vacuuming hair and are excellent
for people with allergies. Although this is not a barking breed they are
alert to the slightest noise and will alert you to visitors.
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