History of Chinese Crested Dogs

A unique looking animal, the Chinese Crested Dog resembles a miniature pony or fawn. The Chinese and other explorers made reference to what is now known as the Chinese Crested Dog as far back as the 13th century. While its exact country or continent of origin may never be known, the animal has gained devoted fans, many of whom toiled tirelessly to ensure the dog's longevity and certification as a breed and show dog.

  1. Edible

    • Also known as the Chinese Sailor Dog or the Chinese Edible Dog, the names refer to a combination of Chinese tradition and practicality. "Both of these names reflected the fact that these dogs were often taken on board Chinese merchant ships where they were used to kill rats on board. When all of the rats were gone, the dog was eaten as a special delicacy by the ship's officers," says Stanley Coren in his book "Why We Love the Dogs We Do."

    Origin

    • Devoid of hair aside from the feet, top of head and a tuft at the tail, the dog has also been called the Chinese Hairless, Chinese Ship Dog, Chinese Royal Hairless, the Pyramid, or Giza Hairless (in Egypt), South African Hairless, and the Turkish Hairless. The exact origin of the dog is unknown, with canines of similar appearance having been recorded in ports of call that Chinese sailors frequented. It is believed the dog may have possibly evolved from the African Hairless Dog and been transported back to China by sailors.

    Recognition

    • The breed first appeared in England as part of a zoological show. According to the American Kennel Club, Chinese Crested's began appearing in European art in the mid-19th century. "This unusual breed was first exhibited in the West in 1885 but the first American breed club was not established until 1979. Full AKC (American Kennel Club) recognition was granted in 1991," writes the Iams dog food brand.

    Famous Fan

    • The dog gained recognition and favor in the United States, largely through the efforts of a few committed individuals. "Ida Garrett, an American credited with popularizing hairless dogs, helped to garner admirers for the Chinese crested. Gypsy Rose Lee, a famous stripper in her time, was one of the breeders committed to improving the favor of this breed," according to the website 5starDog.com. Lee regularly appeared in public and photos with her Chinese Crested's and worked diligently to expand the viability of the breed and gain recognition and certification for it among dog-breeding authorities -- and politicians. "There is a story that a certain state governor even went out and got a Chinese Crested -- just so he could have his picture taken with Gypsy Rose Lee," writes Coren.

    Certification

    • Lee Weston of the website BarkBytes.com says that an American registration service for the breed was formulated in the 1950s, resulting in the founding of the American Hairless Dog Club. Two decades later, in 1979, the American Chinese Crested Club was established as an advocacy group for the dog and its breeders. The organization continues its efforts today.