There is not a lot of information that is accurate about the
Chinese Crested. There is pictorial evidence during the 16th
century that as early as 1550 Chinese traders obtained Cresteds
either in Africa or Mexico, and that they were sold throughout
the world. They have been found in port cities wherever Chinese
ships stopped and Spanish explorers record them in both Mexico
and South Africa. British settlers found them in various ports of
Africa and Asia in the 19th century. During the Han dynasty, the
Chinese Crested fell into two distinct types: the "cobby"
or "hunting dog" version which was larger, and the "deer type"
or treasure house guardian, which was smaller and more elegant.
Once the favored pet for the Mandarins, the Chinese Crested
is from a group known as canis Africanis. It is an unuaual breed
in that it occurs in two varities, hairless and powderpuff (with
hair). They loved people, are usually outgoing, and are good with
children. They are easily trained and use their paws like hands.
This exotic, intelligent, and rugged little dog comes spotted,
parti-colored or in solid coloring. He is agile, loves to play,
and is a good watch dog.
In 1885, two Chinese Cresteds were exhibited at the
Westministerin New York. Although the Chinese Crested
Club of America was organized in 1975, it was not until
1986 that the breed was able to compete in the Miscellaneous
Classes of AKC. He gained full recognition in 1991.
Deborah E. Wood is credited with the establishment of the
modern breed type and for keeping the breed alive.
Canine Crests TM by LeBold Studios
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