Chinese Crested
Free Pet Insurance Comparison
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
On This Page
The Chinese Crested dog is not originally from China. They’re actually from either Mexico or Africa and were later bred to be smaller dogs in China.
The Crested were believed to have been companions of Chinese sailors in the early 1500s where they hunted vermin and helped catch fish.
The Chinese bred the Crested to chase rats off of ships and then sailors traded the dogs at the various ports.
In the early 1700s, there is documentation of hairless dogs that look very close to the Chinese Crested in Europe.
The Chinese Cresteds then began to appear in European prints and paintings in the mid-1900s.
The Chinese viewed the Cresteds as having healing powers and used them as heating pads. These little guys warm anyone up quickly!
Many Chinese emperors were known to have Cresteds in their palace.
It’s uncertain when Cresteds officially came to North America, but in 1974, the first breed club was formed by the American Kennel Club.
Today, the breed is very rare in China and more popular in the United States.
Need Pet Insurance?
FACT: Pet insurance pays up to 90% of vet bills when your pet is sick or injured!
Chinese Crested Dog Breed Characteristics
The Chinese Crested usually stands between 11 and 13 inches for both males and females and weighs anywhere from 10 to 12 pounds.
The Chinese Crested is not always hairless. It is actually found in two types:
The Hairless Chinese Crested
The Hairless is usually bald except for some hair on their feet, tail and little tuft. The hair on the body is usually shaved to protect their skin.
The Hairless skin tones are pink and black. They can sometimes appear almost naked due to his lack of hair.
The Hairless should get a weekly bath and use a high-quality shampoo (designed for dogs). It’s important to check the Hairless’ skin for any acne or blackheads because they are known to get some minor skin issues.
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
The Powderpuff Chinese Crested
The Powderpuff has a full coat and is usually derived from a genetically recessive gene, but both types can be found in a single litter!
The Powderpuff has a coat that comes in various colors and combinations: mahogany, clue lavender, blue and copper. They are either solid or spotted.
Powderpuff Cresteds require a lot of attention to broom. Their very silky, soft double coat and undercoat are prone to matting.
A weekly brushing should be sufficient but when they are puppies, the coat should be groomed daily.
Regardless of the type, the Crested is a slim, small-boned dog who is graceful and elegant-looking.
This dog, particularly the Hairless variation, is as close to a truly hypoallergenic dog that you will encounter.
Real Cost Savings from PetFirst Clients
Luna
PetFirst saved his parents
$6,712
A happy energetic Luna one morning couldn’t hold her food down. After months of multiple costly vet visits to specialists and an endoscopy, the problem was discovered and fixed. Luna put 22 pounds back on in no time and her parents were grateful for having PetFirst by their side to pay the bills.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
The Chinese Crested Personality
Chinese Crested are happy, upbeat dogs who love and adore his family. This is one affectionate dog who loves to be on your lap and spend time snuggling.
He is not an overtly social dog with new people or strangers so be careful when introducing your Crested to someone new.
The Crested is super-intelligent and can be a bit stubborn. Some trainers find the breed un-trainable but that is usually due to their very sensitive personality.
Trainers that are harsh or insensitive will have little luck with this breed.
The Chinese Crested can sometimes be reactive and with a combination of his need to be social, he or she can be a little needy.
Learn More: Why I Wish I Bought Pet Insurance When I First Got My Dog
But, of course, the temperament of the Crested can be affected by numerous factors including socialization, his parents’ demeanor, and training.
He will bark at strangers but isn’t big enough to really scare them off.
Their bark can be yappy or more like a howl with melody. This pup almost sings!
Similar to all other dogs, The Crested needs to be socialized at a young age and exposed to many different people, sights, and experiences to become more friendly and well-rounded.
Early training is a great start. Have friends over to meet him, take him with you to parks and on leisurely walks to help him adjust.
Chinese Crested only needs a little exercise. Don’t expect him to go on a run with you!
His small size makes the Crested a great choice for small homes or apartments.
Of course, keep your Crested stimulated with toys and puzzles that will keep him sharp, busy and not so needy!
Common Health Issues in Chinese Crested Dogs
Chinese Cresteds are a healthy breed, but like any pure-bred, Crested tend to be more prone to certain health issues.
Of course, your Crested might not develop any or all of the following conditions, it’s just important to be aware of them.
If you are buying a Crested from a reputable breeder, you can ask for health clearances for any of the conditions listed below to make sure your Crested (or their parents) is clear of the condition.
Dental Issues (Missing Teeth)
Chinese Crested tend to have dental issues that are a result of a genetic predisposition to missing teeth and being hairless. The Hairless Crested have small teeth that tend to slope toward the front of the mouth and cause issues including losing teeth. This can even happen at 2 or 3 years old. Wet food is always a good recommendation for this breed.
The Powderpuff Crested have less of an issue with missing teeth and just like any toy breed have dental issues, but not to the point of the Hairless. Good dental hygiene is always important for all breeds!
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, which is also known as dry eye, is what the condition implies: the inflammation and dryness of the eye(s). This condition usually occurs when there isn’t enough water in the tear film portion of the eye. This results in the eye being dry and that the membrane is only left with oils and mucus.
The symptoms can be misleading and some might think it is conjunctivitis which is similar and results in yellow discharge. Your vet will diagnose your dog by using the Schirmer Tear Test. Treatment typically consists of special eye drops and ointment.
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Legg- Calve Perthes Disease is a condition that involves the hip joint of the Crested. Legg-Perthes causes the blood supply to the femur to be decreased. This can result in the connective tissue of the femur that connects to the pelvis to disintegrate. Limping and even an atrophied leg muscle can occur in puppies that are five to six months old.
Surgery can often help and correct the condition so the puppy can walk normally.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a compilation of eye diseases that can lead to the deterioration of the retina. In the early stages, some dogs might only become blind at night. Their day vision will decrease as the disease progresses.
Many dogs will adapt to the limited vision as long as their environment, or home surroundings remain the same.
Seizures
Seizures in dogs are a neurological disorder that can be caused by several factors: exposure to toxins, infectious diseases, or even brain tumors. It isn’t always possible to know the exact cause of the seizure and that condition is called “idiopathic”.
Seizures are usually a result of the abnormal amount of neuronal activity in the brain. This can result in very brief episodes of unconsciousness or uncontrolled movement. The treatment depends on the cause of the seizure.
Should You Purchase Pet Insurance for Your Chinese Crested?
Whether you purchase or adopt a Chinese Crested or any other breed of dog, pet insurance is always a very good idea and is recommended.
There are many potential health conditions that might occur with your Crested and they can be very expensive to treat.
If your Crested loses his teeth or has dry eye, it is not uncommon for a vet bill to be anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 to treat.
And if you have enrolled in pet insurance, anywhere from 70% to 90% of the bill is covered.
Plans like Healthy Paws, Embrace, and Petplan not only have great comprehensive policies but will also cover breed-specific conditions for your Crested.
The most important thing you can do for your Crested (and you financially!) is to insure your dog when he is a puppy and before any conditions are deemed pre-existing. In fact, there are no pet insurance companies that will cover a pre-existing condition.
You love your little Hairless Crested and want to always be in the position to be able to give your pup the best care. And, pet insurance will allow you to do just that.
If you are looking to enroll in a new pet insurance policy or simply want to see what others are out there, our best pet insurance companies is a great place to start!
Other articles you may find helpful:
Is Exotic Pet Insurance Necessary?
The Best Pet Insurance By State
Fun Facts, Dog FAQ, And Unsolicited Dog Advice
5 Training Commands to Save Your Dog’s Life
The Ultimate Guide to Safe Foods for Dogs
How do you choose a dog breed? There are so many awesome options! We have compiled a complete database about all the dog breeds, their mannerisms, care, and who they do best with. Statistically, some purebreds experience more health issues than mixed breeds. There are many pet insurance companies out there and we have put together a great article about the best puppy and dog pet insurance companies in the US.
You may be interested in one of these dog breeds:
Bernese Mountain Dog Pet Insurance
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Pet Insurance
Cocker Spaniel Breed Information
French Bulldog Breed Information
German Shepherd Breed Information
German Shorthaired Pointer Pet Insurance
Golden Retriever Breed Information
Havanese Dogs | Average Cost and Care
Jack Russell Terrier Pet Insurance
Labrador Retriever Breed Information
Miniature Schnauzer Pet Insurance
Rhodesian Ridgeback Pet Insurance
Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Pet Insurance
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pet insurance necessary for Chinese Crested dogs?
Yes, pet insurance is highly recommended for Chinese Crested dogs. They may be prone to certain health issues, and treating conditions like dental issues or dry eye can be expensive. Pet insurance helps cover a significant portion of veterinary bills.
What are the common health issues in Chinese Crested dogs?
Chinese Crested dogs may face health issues such as dental problems (missing teeth), Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (dry eye), Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and seizures. Regular veterinary check-ups and early detection can help manage these conditions.
How much does it cost to treat common health issues in Chinese Crested dogs?
The costs of treating common health issues in Chinese Crested dogs can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. Having pet insurance can significantly alleviate these costs, covering anywhere from 70% to 90% of the veterinary bills.
Are there pet insurance companies that cover breed-specific conditions for Chinese Crested dogs?
es, pet insurance companies like Healthy Paws, Embrace, and Petplan offer comprehensive policies that cover breed-specific conditions for Chinese Crested dogs. It’s essential to choose a plan that suits your dog’s specific needs.
When is the best time to enroll in pet insurance for a Chinese Crested dog?
The best time to enroll in pet insurance for a Chinese Crested dog is when they are a puppy and before any health conditions are deemed pre-existing. No pet insurance companies cover pre-existing conditions, so early enrollment ensures comprehensive coverage.
What is the temperament of Chinese Crested dogs?
Chinese Crested dogs are known for being happy, affectionate, and intelligent. They love to be with their family and may be a bit reserved with strangers. Proper socialization and early training are crucial for shaping their temperament.
Do Chinese Crested dogs require a lot of exercise?
No, Chinese Crested dogs do not require a lot of exercise due to their small size. They are well-suited for small homes or apartments. Providing mental stimulation through toys and puzzles is essential to keep them engaged.
Are Chinese Crested dogs hypoallergenic?
The Hairless variation of the Chinese Crested is considered close to being hypoallergenic. Their lack of hair reduces the likelihood of triggering allergies, making them a suitable choice for individuals with sensitivities.
How should Chinese Crested dogs be groomed?
Grooming requirements vary based on the type of Chinese Crested. The Hairless variety should receive a weekly bath and have their skin checked for any skin issues. The Powderpuff variety requires weekly brushing and more attention to coat maintenance, especially when they are puppies.
What is the history and origin of Chinese Crested dogs?
Chinese Crested dogs are believed to have originated in Mexico or Africa and later traded by Chinese sailors in the early 1500s. They were used to chase rats off ships, and their appearance in Europe dates back to the early 1700s. Today, they are more popular in the United States than in China.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.