About the Chinese Crested
Distinctive small breed that comes in two varieties — hairless with tufts on head, feet, and tail, or the fully coated "Powderpuff." Ancient companion breed with a playful, affectionate nature.
Weight Range
8–12
lbs
Size
🐕 Toy Breed
Activity
🚶 Moderate Activity
Lifespan
13-18 years
Chinese Crested Temperament & Personality
Swipe to explore personality traits →
Affectionate
Deeply loving and enjoys physical closeness, cuddles, and bonding with their family.
Alert
Highly aware of their surroundings and quick to notice changes or approaching visitors.
Lively
Full of vibrant energy and enthusiasm — keeps the household active and engaged.
Playful
Loves games, toys, and interactive fun — keeps their youthful spirit throughout life.
Happy
Consistently joyful with a wagging tail and bright eyes — radiates happiness.
Chinese Crested Health & Dietary Needs
Common Health Considerations
Breed-Specific Nutritional Guidance
Hairless variety burns more calories for thermoregulation. Diet rich in omega fatty acids supports skin health — critical for exposed skin. Dental disease is extremely common in both varieties.
Estimated Daily Calories for Chinese Cresteds
Based on a typical 10 lb Chinese Crested with moderate activity level:
349
calories per day
* This is an estimate using the RER formula (70 × weight_kg^0.75 × activity multiplier). Use our calculator below for a precise recommendation based on your dog's exact weight, age, and condition.
Complete Chinese Crested Feeding Guide
Expert Tips for Chinese Cresteds
Feed 2–3 meals daily. Hairless variety may need 5-10% more calories in cold weather. Dental health food important due to common tooth issues. Protect exposed skin with nutrition from within.
Practical Feeding Guidelines
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 small meals per day to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Portion Control
Always measure portions with a kitchen scale or measuring cup. Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calories.
Hydration
Ensure fresh water is always available. A Chinese Crested needs approximately 5–10 oz of water daily.
Weight Monitoring
Weigh your Chinese Crested monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Ideal body condition means you can feel (but not see) the ribs.
Get Your Chinese Crested's Exact Calorie Needs
Our free calculator uses veterinarian-approved formulas to give you a personalized feeding recommendation based on your Chinese Crested's exact weight, age, activity level, and body condition.
Calculate Now — It's Free