Hailing from China, the Crested Dogs are quite rare and unique, which is why they’re often picked as mating buddies for other breeds. Overall, there are 21 Crested Dog hybrids out there, and they all have distinctive appearances, physical properties, and personalities. So, how do you know which crossbreed will be the best pick for your household?

We’ve got your back! Here, you’ll find details on the lifespan, size, and temperament of each breed, along with interesting facts, behavioral patterns, and, of course, a cute picture. Check them out!

How Are Chinese Crested Dog Mixes Classified?

This breed was recognized by the AKC in 1991, but it’s been around for much longer: the roots trace back to South America (1500s) and Africa (1700s). Also, while CCD is categorized as a hairless pup (with occasional hair on the head, tail, and legs), some pups are born as powder puffs with long, soft fur. As for the mixed breeds, there are no strict requirements for the second parent.

And, depending on which genes will prevail, you’ll either get a laidback doggo with little to no hair or an energetic pup with lush fur. In any case, the pet will be sweet, cheerful, and easy to maintain. Unfortunately, none of these hybrids are recognized by the AKC. But they’re still allowed in various dog shows and competitions.

The 21 Chinese Crested Dog Mixes

1. Crested Beagle (Chinese Crested x Beagle Mix)

The Crested Beagle is a low-maintenance, upbeat dog. Small yet full of life, it adopts color patterns from Beagles and wiry hair from a Crested Chinese. Is it going to be an “energizer”, or couch potato, though? That thoroughly depends on the parents, but, most likely, you’ll get a balanced fur bud (equally active and slow-paced)—a perfect pick for first-time owners.

2. Chinese Frise (Chinese Crested x Bichon Frise Mix)

Cuteness overload: that’s the best way to describe the Chinese Frise. This is a tiny, adorable pooch that loves nothing more than to spend time with its favorite humans (as a lap dog or hiking buddy). Chinese Frise dogs often have thick and dense coats with wavy/curly hair. When properly socialized, they are very friendly and don’t mind goofing around with other pets in the house.

3. Crested Boxer (Chinese Crested x Boxer Mix)

When taking after the Boxer parent, this hybrid can easily reach 45 pounds in weight and 19 inches in height. As for the personality, you’ll get a fearless guardian with a loving heart. Crested Boxers are capable companions with a strong spirit and unwavering loyalty. That said, they can also be stubborn and headstrong. So, obedience training is a must. Luckily, these champs are smart and happy to follow your lead.

4. Crested Cavalier (Chinese Crested x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Mix)

If you’re torn between the graceful Cavalier and the affectionate Chinese Crested, you can have the best of two worlds with this mixed breed. This pet needs at least an hour or two of exercise and fun games; the exquisite coat requires attention as well. But thanks to its tiny size, the Crested Cavalier won’t mind living in a small apartment.

Personality-wise, expect to welcome an even-tempered, noble dog with good manners.

5. Chi-Chi (Chinese Crested x Chihuahua Mix)

Up next, we have a perfect hybrid pup for active families – Chi-Chi. Senior dog fans who would like to adopt a friendly, obedient, and cuddly pet will also find the Chihuahua/Crested mix to be a great choice. These dogs can be a bit naughty, though, and get anxious when left alone. Still, the small size, impressive lifespan (up to 20 years), and adaptive nature turn this breed into a must-have.

6. Crested Chin (Chinese Crested x Chin Mix)

This miniature doggo weighs 3–11 pounds and rarely goes over 9 inches in height. It’s a healthy, well-built pup that loves nothing more than to please its owners. Now, it doesn’t need much exercise, but you will have to spend 1.5–2 hours per day with it. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get a pet with a long, smooth coat. The slim, compact body, cute dark eyes, and tiny feet are this breed’s trademark characteristics.

7. Crested Cocker (Chinese Crested x Cocker Spaniel Mix)

Cocker Spaniels and Chinese Crested Dogs are joyful and affectionate, and you’ll get plenty of that with their “lovechild”. Physically, the Crested Cocker is tall, slender, and weighs 15–23 pounds. And if it takes after the Asian parent, the pup will come with a thick coat yet bare spots all over the body. Give this energetic four-legged chap the attention it deserves, and it will return the love and care tenfold!

8. Crestoxie (Chinese Crested x Dachshund Mix)

A quick fact: the Chinese Crested used to hunt rats on ships. And when paired with the Dachshund, a famous badger killer, you get a beast with a high prey drive. Often called a Crested Doxie, this nightmare-for-vermin dog has strong, slim legs and a long back. Smart, capable, and active, it can be an ideal pet in the right hands.

Early socialization and obedience training will help you tame this stubborn hunter.

9. Crested Havanese (Chinese Crested x Havanese Mix)

If you’d like to bring home an exotic dog with a big heart and a people-oriented nature, the Crested Havanese might be a match made in Heaven. As a designer dog, it first emerged in the late 20th century, and today, it’s more popular than ever. That’s probably because very few hybrids are as affectionate and enthusiastic; it’s always ready to rumble!

Ideally, you should have grown kids in the family, though (because of the miniature size).

10. Italian Grey Crested (Chinese Crested x Italian Greyhound Mix)

Playful, alert, and quick to adapt, the Italian Greyhound is a multi-talented dog. It’s elegant, too, and matches the Chinese Crested in size. As a result, the crossbreed is compact, affectionate, and graceful. However, it’s also a needy companion with a sensitive personality. Lastly, the short coat, slim legs, and low-fat body make it a less-than-ideal pick for a cold climate.

11. China Jack (Chinese Crested x Jack Russell Terrier Mix)

Looking to get a fun, vigorous doggo to boost your spirit? We have the perfect hybrid: China Jack, a Jack Russell Terrier/Chinese Crested baby. You will, of course, have to put in some effort in obedience training, but it will be worth it. As for the coat, it can differ in color (black, white, brown, or red) and be long and soft, smooth, rough, or a little bit of both, depending on the parents.

12. Crested Apso (Chinese Crested x Lhasa Apso Mix)

Both Lhasa Apso and Chinese Crested dogs are highly sought-after breeds. Apsos have a history of serving as watchdogs for Tibet royalties. So, despite the miniature size, they’re quite the protectors and aren’t afraid to be vocal. They’re just as confident and smart as the Chinese pups. That’s why the Crested Apso hybrid is quick to follow commands, always on high alert, and all-around lovable.

13. Crested Malt (Chinese Crested x Maltese Mix)

Seniors, singles, and families living in apartments will like the Crested Malt. Docile and sensitive yet also cheerful and playful, these designer dogs have been around for many decades, bringing love and joy to their favorite humans. And, while the coat does take some time to groom, overall, the Crested Malt is a low-maintenance pet.

With that, it’s a rare mixed breed, meaning you’ll be “playing the lottery” when it comes to the size, fur, and coat color.

14. Crested Schnauzer (Chinese Crested x Miniature Schnauzer Mix)

Hailing from Germany, Schnauzers are intelligent, fearless farm dogs with a sporty look and stubborn but loyal personality. It has a tight coat, strong body, and trademark arched brows. Physically, it’s quite different from the Crested Chinese, but these two breeds are a close match in terms of character. So, no matter which parent Crested Schnauzer follows (genetically), you’ll always get a lively, spirited pet.

15. Powderpap (Chinese Crested x Papillon Mix)

We’re not done with the cute mixed breeds just yet! Meet Powderpap—a mix between Papillons and Chinese Crested Dogs. This toy breed is an excellent companion for a wide range of owners. It’s a bit mischievous, very cuddly, and likes a good balance between play and rest. But if it takes after the French parent, you will have a double coat to take care of.

On the bright side, this dog won’t feel cramped up in an apartment as long as you take it for regular outside walks.

16. Crested Peke (Chinese Crested x Pekingese Mix)

What happens when you mix two Chinese breeds? You get a four-legged wonder called the Crested Peke! Brought to life by two tiny pups, it does great in small apartments and likes to be included in all the family fun activities. The Peke is also very happy to spend time with little kids. You should always be there to provide supervision, though; otherwise, the dog might get hurt or start nipping.

17. Chinaranian (Chinese Crested x Pomeranian Mix)

This next champ is a crossbreed between a Chinese pup and a Pomeranian. It’s just as small as most Crested mixes, yet needs more daily exercise to stay in shape. The coat can be fine or a bit thicker (always short), depending on how the breeding goes. The available colors include black, gray, cream, brown, and blue.

Again, the Chinaranian is a family-oriented doggo, but young children may hurt it by accident. That’s why it’s more suited for families with adult kids.

18. Chinese Crestepoo (Chinese Crested x Poodle Mix)

Compared to other Chinese Crested mixed breeds, Chinese Crestepoo is quite tall. The body is always covered in long, soft fur (black, white, or brown), and the dog might grow a beard; the ears won’t have any hair, though. More importantly, since the other half is a Poodle, expect it to be a bit stubborn and strong-willed. So, be patient and use positive reinforcement during the training sessions!

19. Pugese (Chinese Crested x Pug Mix)

Just like the Peke, the Pugese has two Chinese parents: a Crested Dog and a Pug. Loving, caring, and a bit greedy—that’s the Pugese in a nutshell for you. Pugs have been a go-to choice for Chinese royalty for many generations. That’s why they tend to be aggressive toward other pets in the house. Separation anxiety can also be a problem.

On the bright side, these dogs are well-adapted to indoor living, although they do take 6–8 months to housetrain.

20. Crested Tzu (Chinese Crested x Shih Tzu Mix)

And here, we have a hybrid between a Shih Tzu and a Chinese Crested. What’s special about this one, you might ask? First, this hybrid rocks a dazzling appearance that will turn some heads. Secondly, it has a warm, cuddly, and chill personality. The Crested Tzu has impeccable manners, too, and doesn’t like the outdoors that much. Instead, it prefers to spend most of its free time as a lap dog.

21. Crustie (Chinese Crested x Yorkshire Terrier Mix)

To finish the list on a high note, we’ve got another special crossbreed, this time with the fan-favored Yorkshire Terrier. This little guy (or gal) has tons of energy to burn and lives its best life when around humans it loves and trusts. So, if you’re an active person with adult kids who love the outdoors, the Crested Yorkie will be a great addition to the family.

Conclusion

The Chinese Crested Dog might not be the most popular breed in the US, but it sure does make for an amazing pet. This pup is well-suited for single owners, seniors, and families with kids. And if we combine it with the likes of Boxers, Terriers, or Spaniels, we’ll get a whole bunch of loyal, affectionate, and one-of-a-kind companions.

Today, we checked out 21 Crested Dog hybrids, including mixes with world-famous German, English, French, and Japanese breeds. And, while some of these exotic pups aren’t exactly cheap (or easy to find), for a dog parent looking to adopt a low-maintenance, smart, and playful furry bud, it will be an investment worth every single penny!

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Featured Image Credit: Anastasiia Cherniavskaia, Shutterstock