Enjoy this guide and overview with a lot of tips for new and existing owners of Chinese Crestepoo Doodle Dogs.

A Chinese Crestepoo, sometimes referred to as a Chinese Crestoodle, Poochis, or Cresteddoodle, is a crossbreed dog that is a delightful mix of a Chinese Crested and a Poodle, commonly a Miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle.

History of Chinese Crestepoo Doodle Dogs

The Chinese Crested: Drenched in mystique, the history of the Chinese Crested is a tapestry of ancient tales and world travels. Contrary to its name, this breed didn’t originate in China. Instead, it is believed to have descended from African hairless dogs. As Chinese sailors navigated the high seas during the Age of Exploration, they took these dogs on their voyages, mainly to hunt vermin onboard, thereby preventing plagues and protecting food supplies. The association with these sailors led the breed to be named “Chinese Crested.”

As the breed continued to evolve in China, two varieties emerged: the completely hairless version and the “Powderpuff,” which has a full coat. Both variations can be born in the same litter. Throughout the years, the Chinese Crested found its way into the hearts of Chinese royalty and nobility, often depicted in art and literature.

The Poodle: The Poodle’s roots trace back to Germany, where they were known as “Pudel,” which means “to splash,” fitting for a breed initially trained for water retrieval. Their unique coat was not just a fashion statement. The specific cuts were functional and intended to protect the dogs’ vital organs from cold water

The Birth of the Chinese Crestepoo: The endeavor to breed the Chinese Crested and Poodle is relatively recent, likely having started in the late 20th or early 21st century. The aim was to combine the unique aesthetic features of the Chinese Crested with the intelligence and hypoallergenic properties of the Poodle. The result is the Chinese Crestepoo, a dog that showcases the best of both worlds. This Doodle breed captures the hearts of many with its unique appearance, affectionate nature, and smart demeanor. while allowing them ease of movement.

Selecting a Chinese Crestepoo

When considering adding a Chinese Crestepoo to your family, making an informed decision is crucial. These delightful doodles can be a fantastic companion, but it’s essential to ensure they align with your lifestyle and expectations.

Knowing the characteristics, temperaments, and potential health concerns of both parent breeds can offer insights into the mixed breed’s likely behaviors and needs.

Due to the Poodle’s three size variants (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), Chinese Crestepoos can vary significantly in size. Confirm with the breeder which type of Poodle was used in the breeding to anticipate your pup’s adult size.

Both the Chinese Crested and the Poodle are known for being hypoallergenic. However, no dog is entirely allergen-free. Spend time with the breed before committing, especially if allergies are a concern.

While Poodles are active and enjoy playtime, Chinese Cresteds have a more moderate energy level. Depending on which parent breed your pup leans towards, be prepared for varied activity needs.

Chinese Crestepoos are generally sociable and get along well with other pets and children. However, it’s essential to consider the dynamics of your current household.

Size and Lifespan of Chinese Crestepoos

The size and lifespan of a Chinese crested poodle largely depend on the poodle’s parentage. This would mean a Chinese Crestepoo could stand anywhere from 9 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder, weighing anywhere between 5 and 20 pounds.

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A Chinese Crestepoo can be expected to have a lifespan ranging from 12 to 16 years.

Health and Maintenance of Chinese Crestepoos

Health:

• Skin Issues: Chinese Cresteds, especially the hairless variant, can be prone to various skin issues, including sunburn, acne, and dry skin. Regularly check their skin for any irritations or abnormalities, and apply dog-safe sunscreen if they’re out in direct sunlight.
• Dental Issues: Small dog breeds, including the Chinese Crested, can often face dental problems. Regular dental check-ups, tooth brushing, and dental chews can help prevent issues.
• Eye Problems: Both Chinese Cresteds and Poodles can be predisposed to eye issues, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Regular eye checks and keeping their eyes clean can be beneficial.
• Hip Dysplasia: More common in larger dogs, Miniature and Toy poodles can still be susceptible. This is where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket. It’s painful and can lead to arthritis. Regular checkups can help spot early signs.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: Poodles can sometimes be carriers of this inherited bleeding disorder. Though it’s not overly common, it’s something to be aware of and discuss with a vet.
• Patellar Luxation: Essentially, a dislocated kneecap. It’s a common condition in smaller dog breeds. Signs include irregular movement or hopping.

Required Vaccines for Doodle Dogs

Maintenance: Particularly for hairless Chinese Crestepoos, moisturize their skin to prevent dryness using dog-specific lotions. Be wary of long sun exposures. Also, regular teeth brushing, dental check-ups, grooming, a healthy diet, exercise, and training are all essentials for a healthy lifestyle.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Chinese Crestepoos

General Temperament:

• Affectionate and Loyal: Chinese Crestepoos are deeply attached to their families. They thrive on human interaction and often shadow their favorite person around the house.
• Intelligent and Alert: Thanks to the Poodle genes, these dogs are sharp and quickly pick up on new commands or tricks. Their alert nature also makes them decent watchdogs, notifying you of any unfamiliar presence.
• Playful: They’re playful dogs that enjoy interactive toys, fetch games, and gentle tug-of-war. Their zest for life can be infectious!

Interaction with Different Environments:

• Adaptability: Chinese Crestepoos generally adapt well to apartment living. They don’t require a lot of space, as long as they get their daily dose of playtime and walks.
• Outdoor Sensitivity: Due to the skin sensitivity of the hairless Chinese Crested genes, owners should be mindful when taking their Chinese Crestepoo outside. Protection against extreme weather conditions and the sun is a must.
• Social Butterfly: With early socialization, they can get along well in dog parks and playdates, though always monitor interactions to ensure they aren’t overwhelmed.

Interaction with People:

• Kids: With their affectionate nature, Chinese Crestepoos can get along great with kids. However, due to their smaller size, it’s crucial for interactions with very young children to be supervised to prevent accidental injury.
• Seniors: Their relatively low maintenance and gentle demeanor make them great companions for the elderly. They love cuddling, which can be quite therapeutic.
• Strangers: They might be a bit wary of strangers initially but usually warm up once they sense no threat. Early socialization helps make them more open to unfamiliar faces.

Behavioral Traits to Note:

• Barking: They can be a tad vocal, especially if they hear or see something unusual. It’s a blend of their watchdog instinct and curiosity.
• Training: Their intelligence means they’re trainable, but it also means they can be a bit stubborn. Positive reinforcement methods, like treats and praise, work best with them.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Free online workshop to train your Chinese Crestepoo to behave like a well-trained service dog.

Nutrition and Diet for Chinese Crestepoo Doodle Dogs

Nutrition:

• Quality Over Quantity: Always prioritize high-quality dog food that’s free from artificial additives, fillers, or by-products.
• Balanced Ingredients: Seek food that contains a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fats, and high-quality proteins. Ensure the protein source is named (like “chicken” or “beef”) rather than using generic terms like “animal meat.”
• AAFCO Guidelines: Opt for brands that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. This assures that the food provides complete and balanced nutrition.
• Skin Sensitivities: Chinese Crested genes can bring skin sensitivities into the mix. Including Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in the diet can benefit skin health. Foods rich in these fatty acids include fish and flaxseed.

Feeding:

• Age-appropriate Diet: Puppies, adults, and senior Chinese Crestepoos have different nutritional needs. Always choose food tailored to their life stage.
• Feeding Frequency: Puppies are usually fed 4–6 times daily. Once they hit the 6-month mark, switch to twice-daily feedings. Adult Chinese Crestepoos can continue with twice-a-day meals.
• Portion Control: Adjust food quantities based on age, activity level, and specific needs. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which strains the joints and can lead to other health complications.
• Treats in Moderation: While treats can be a valuable training tool, they should be given judiciously. They shouldn’t comprise more than 10% of the dog’s daily caloric intake.
• Water: Fresh water should always be available. This is particularly important if you’re feeding your Chinese Crestepoo a dry kibble diet.

Specific Dietary Considerations for Chinese Crestepoos:

• Skin Health: Given the potential for skin sensitivities, including supplements or foods rich in vitamins like vitamin E can be beneficial for skin health.
• Lean Protein Sources: While they do require protein, opt for lean sources like chicken, turkey, or fish. It helps maintain muscle while preventing unnecessary weight gain.
• Bone and Joint Health: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can be considered, especially if you have a larger variant of the Chinese Crestepoo, to support joint health.

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Always remember that individual Chinese Crestepoos might have unique dietary needs. Regular vet checkups and understanding your dog’s specific requirements will aid in providing the best nutrition possible. Adjustments based on activity level, age, and any health issues will ensure your furry friend stays in optimal health.

Average Cost to Purchase a Chinese Crestepoo and Annual Costs

Chinese Crestepoos, as with all designer breeds, can vary in cost depending on various factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, geographic location, and demand.

Average cost to purchase a Chinese Crestepoo: $1,500 to $3,500

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Annual expenses: $1,200 to $2,500

List of items needed for preparing for a Doodle Dog

This estimate includes costs associated with:

• Food and treats
• Routine veterinary care, including vaccinations and regular check-ups
• Grooming, especially if the poodle’s curly coat is dominant
• Training sessions or classes, if chosen
• Pet insurance (if opted)
• Supplies like toys, beds, leashes, collars, and other essentials
• Potential boarding or pet-sitting fees during travel or vacations

It’s worth noting that the first year might be slightly more expensive due to one-time costs such as spaying and neutering, microchipping, and initial vaccinations.

Grooming a Chinese Crestepoo

When it comes to appearance, the Chinese Crestepoo is a stunning sight! This delightful mix between a Chinese Crested and a Poodle results in a range of possible appearances, depending on which parent breed’s traits dominate.

Typical Appearance:
Chinese Crestepoos usually sport a medium-length coat that can be curly, wavy, or even hairless in some sections, reminiscent of the Chinese Crested’s unique hairless trait. Their body structure is agile and elegant, with a slightly rounded head, expressive eyes, and a plume-like tail.

Coat Colors:
Their coat can be a wide variety of colors, including black, white, brown, cream, blue, and even tri-color. Some may have the distinctive “hairless” look of the Chinese Crested, with hair only on their head, tail, and feet.

Ear Care:
Their ears can either stand erect or droop, but in both cases, they need regular cleaning. Use a vet-recommended cleaning solution and a cotton ball to gently clean inside the ear, being careful not to probe too deeply.

Eye Care:
Their expressive eyes can sometimes be prone to tear staining, especially in lighter-coated Chinese Crestepoos. It’s advisable to gently clean around the eyes with a soft cloth to remove any debris or tear buildup.

Nail Care:
Regular nail trims are essential for the Chinese Crestepoo. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim. For those who are unsure about trimming their dog’s nails at home, a professional groomer or vet can do this task.

Coat Care:
If your Chinese Crestepoo has inherited the Poodle’s curly coat, brush them several times a week to prevent tangles and mats. If they have the hairless traits of the Chinese Crested, you’ll need to care for their skin, using moisturizing lotions to prevent dryness and ensuring they have sun protection if they’re out in the sun for extended periods.

Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is also beneficial, especially if their coat is more on the curly side. This ensures they’re always looking their best and can help identify any skin issues or parasites early on.

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