Chinese Crested Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?
Everything you need to know about the Chinese Crested's life expectancy, factors that affect longevity, and tips to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.
Average Lifespan
13–18 years
Size Category
Small
Compared to Average
Above average
Chinese Crested Life Expectancy
The Chinese Crested has an average lifespan of 13 to 18 years, which is above average for dogs of their size category. Chinese Cresteds typically live 13 to 18 years. Their longevity is excellent, and many remain active and playful well into their senior years..
Several factors influence an individual Chinese Crested's lifespan, including genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall lifestyle. Dogs from health-tested parents who receive consistent preventive care tend to live the longest.
Lifespan Range Visualization
Lifespan by Gender
| Male | 13–18 years |
| Female | 13.5–18.5 years |
Factors That Affect Chinese Crested Lifespan
Several factors influence Chinese Crested longevity (average 13–18 years):
- Genetic heritage: Choose a breeder who tests for Dental Abnormalities and performs all recommended clearances
- Diet quality: Feed a complete, balanced diet (0.5–0.2 cups/day) and avoid overfeeding
- Physical fitness: 50+ minutes daily maintains joint, heart, and metabolic health
- Medical care: Annual visits (biannual after 11), dental cleanings, and early intervention
- Healthy weight: Maintaining 8–12 lbs prevents joint issues and extends lifespan
- Stress reduction: Moderate exercise needs satisfied by daily walks and play sessions. The hairless variety needs sun protection and warm clothing in cool weather during outdoor activities.
Tips to Help Your Chinese Crested Live Longer
Practical steps to extend your Chinese Crested's life beyond the 13–18 year average:
- Measure food precisely—keep weight within 8–12 lbs
- Commit to 50+ minutes of daily activity suited to this toy breed
- Stay current on vaccinations and parasite control
- Book veterinary wellness exams annually (biannually after age 11)
- Monitor for early signs of Dental Abnormalities and Patellar Luxation
- Provide enrichment through training sessions, food puzzles, and play
- Don't delay vet visits when something seems off
Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds
| Breed | Lifespan | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Welsh Terrier | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Pomeranian | 12–16 yrs | Small |
| Brussels Griffon | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Bedlington Terrier | 11–16 yrs | Small |
| Lakeland Terrier | 12–15 yrs | Small |
Frequently Asked Questions
13 to 18 years is typical for the Chinese Crested. This is above average for a small-sized dog. Chinese Cresteds typically live 13 to 18 years. Their longevity is excellent, and many remain active and playful well into their senior years..
Feed a balanced diet, maintain healthy weight, provide 50+ minutes of daily exercise, keep up with preventive vet care, and address health issues early. The hairless gene is linked to dental abnormalities, meaning hairless dogs will have incomplete dentition. Skin care is a constant requirement for the hairless variety..
While specific records vary, some Chinese Cresteds have lived well beyond their 13–18 year average with exceptional care and favorable genetics. As a small-sized toy breed from China, their longevity depends heavily on managing conditions like Dental Abnormalities. Documented long-lived Chinese Cresteds share common threads: healthy weight, active lifestyle, and consistent veterinary care.
Gender has minimal impact on Chinese Crested longevity. Both males (8–12 lbs) and females (6–10 lbs) share the same 13–18 year life expectancy. Affectionate, alert, and needy, Chinese Cresteds thrive on close physical contact. They are sensitive and intuitive dogs who seem to read their owners' emotions with remarkable accuracy.. Spaying/neutering may modestly extend lifespan by reducing certain cancer risks.
Current research suggests spaying or neutering can slightly increase lifespan by reducing certain cancer risks. For small-sized breeds like the Chinese Crested, the timing is less critical than for larger breeds, but discuss it with your vet to optimize outcomes. Your veterinarian can recommend the ideal age based on your Chinese Crested's individual health profile.