20. Chinese Crested Hairless

The exotic-looking Chinese Crested Hairless is the most popular hairless breed in the world. According to the American Kennel Club, ‘’it is believed that Chinese mariners sailed with this breed - believed to have evolved from African hairless dogs - on board. During the time of the Chinese plagues, hairless dogs were stowed aboard ships to hunt vermin. By the mid-nineteenth century, Cresteds began appearing in European art, and entries of the breed in American dog shows began in the late 1800s.’’

In fact, there are two types of the Chinese Crested Dog – the Hairless and the Powderpuff. Interestingly enough, all hairless Chinese Crested can produce powderpuff puppies, even when both the mother and the father are hairless. On the other hand, two powderpuffs cannot produce a hairless puppy.

These little dogs are often considered ugly because of their strange appearance and one famous Chinese Crested Hairless dog won the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest three times in a row.

Needless to say that grooming is minimal with this dog breed. Their lifespan is around 13 years, but they can live longer than that.

They are loveable and affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time and playing with their human family. They get along well with kids, but make sure to teach your children how to handle such a small and fragile breed. Like all dog breeds, the Chinese Crested requires a dominant pack leader who will define the rules of behavior. Do not let your adorable dog develop the Small Dog Syndrome – treat the Chinese Crested as you would a larger breed. Additionally, just because they are small does not mean they do not need exercise – they are active dogs that have to be taken on daily walks.

Last but not least, do not overfeed them as they tend to gain weight easily.