When you picture a guard dog, images of towering Rottweilers or muscular Pit Bulls might leap to mind. But what if I told you that one of the best watchdogs in the canine kingdom stands just over a foot tall, weighs less than 15 pounds, and has no fur?
Believe it or not, the Chinese Crested dog, a breed best known for its startling looks and winning “ugliest dog competitions,” is an exceptional watchdog. That’s not to say this breed is a typical guard dog (those notions of Rottweilers and Pit Bulls weren’t all wrong), but they do possess an uncanny knack for detecting changes in their surroundings and alerting their owners. And no, they don’t do this by barking up a storm in the middle of the night and disturbing the rest of the house.
The Chinese Crested is a small, elegant breed that comes in two distinct varieties – the mainly hairless variant aptly named ‘Hairless’, and the ultra fluffy ‘Powderpuff’. Separately, these dogs might look like they belong to different breeds, but they’re both valid choices if you’re seeking a vigilant, loyal companion.
Unlike other much larger, more physically imposing breeds, the Chinese Crested doesn’t rely on raw power or ferocity to safeguard its household. Instead, it utilizes its sharp senses, impressive intelligence, unwavering loyalty, and consistent alertness. These dogs are perfectly capable of detecting any change in their environment, be it a newcomer at the door or an unusual sound in the middle of the night, and immediately alerting their owners of the potential danger.
Their small size, coupled with their unique ability to move silently, also means they’re able to investigate suspicious occurrences without alerting potential intruders of their presence. It’s like having a tiny, furry secret agent in your home.
But don’t let their watchdog abilities make you think these dogs are hard, serious workers all the time. On the contrary, the Chinese Crested is renowned for its affectionate, playful, and loving personality. They’re known for becoming incredibly attached to their owners, and while this breed might not be up to protecting a large property, their unwavering loyalty makes them a dependable household companion.
While the Chinese Crested may be a capable watchdog, it’s essential to remember that they’re not trained guard dogs capable of tackling and restraining intruders. The breed is small, not very strong, and easily intimidated, so while they’ll happily alert you to the mailman’s arrival, you shouldn’t expect your Chinese Crested to take him on singlehandedly.
If you’re thinking about welcoming a Chinese Crested into your home, remember that they’re sensitive, intelligent dogs. They require a great deal of mental stimulation, affection, and consistent training to thrive. They’re also a relatively active breed that enjoys regular play sessions and walks to stay fit and keep their minds sharp.
Whether you’re interested in them for their stellar watchdog capabilities, their unique looks, or their loving personalities, the Chinese Crested is an intriguing breed that can bring a lot of joy into your home. Always remember, however, that owning a dog is a commitment, and every breed comes with its requirements and challenges. But if you’re up to the task, the rewards of a loving, loyal, and vigilant companion can be immeasurable.
In conclusion, the Chinese Crested may not be your traditional guard dog, but as a watchdog, it simply excels. Quick to alert their owners to changes in their environments, yet caring and affectionate, a Chinese Crested may be just the dog you didn’t know you were searching for. If you’re big on love and low on space, a Chinese Crested could be the perfect furry friend for you.
