Pyrenean Shepherd vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Shepherd vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed ComparisonPyrenean Shepherd is originated from Spain but Chinese Crested Dog is originated from Mexico. Pyrenean Shepherd may grow 20 cm / 8 inches higher than Chinese Crested Dog. Pyrenean Shepherd may weigh 15 kg / 34 pounds more than Chinese Crested Dog. Both Pyrenean Shepherd and Chinese Crested Dog has almost same life span. Both Pyrenean Shepherd and Chinese Crested Dog has almost same litter size. Pyrenean Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Chinese Crested Dog requires Low maintenance

History

pyrenean shepherd - historyThe Pyrenean Shepherd hails from Spain where he has always been used to herd sheep. Some people believe he is a descendant of the French Catalan Sheepdog while others say from the Briard. Nobody is too sure.

He is actually the smallest of the French herding breeds. It is interesting to note that he still does this herding job today. It was in the 19th century that a few of these dogs left for America with shepherds who found work herding flocks in the American West.

These dogs were also used in World War 1 as messenger dogs.

It was during the 1970's and 1980's that breeding programs were started for the dog and The Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1987. The dog was also recognized in 2009 by the American Kennel Club.

chinese crested dog - historyThe Chinese Crested Dog is believed to have its origins in Africa and there are many texts from the 19th Century that feature an Africa Hairless Terrier that resembles the Chinese Crested. However, the scientific and genetic evidence leads to an origin that is shared with the Mexican Hairless Dog. Any way you look at it the dog did not originate in China. The Chinese were very fond of this breed and used them on their ships to control the rat populations. This is probably how they got their name.

There are two types of Chinese Crested Dogs – the well known Hairless, and the lesser known Powderpuff. The Hairless type is better known because they carry the dominant trait and the Powderpuff is recessive. However, this recessive gene is carried by every Chinese Crested Dog so the Powderpuff can show up in all litters even those of two Hairless Crested. Two Powderpuffs will not result in any Hairless in their litters as the Powderpuff does not have the gene for the Hairless.

The “Crest Haven” Kennel was opened by Debora Wood in the 1950’s to breed the Chines Crested Dog. At the same time Gypsy Rose Lee, of the famous burlesque shows, was also breeding Chinese Crested Dogs. The two lines of Crested bred by Americans came together following the death of Rose Lee. Every Chinese Crested that lives today can trace their heritage directly to these two breeding lines. In 1959, Debra Wood founded the American Hairless Dog Club which became a part of the American Chinese Crested Club or the ACCC in 1978. This organization then became the breed’s parent club after AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the breed in 1991. Prior to this the Federation Cynologique Internationale, recognized the breed in 1987, the United Kingdom (UK)the Kennel Club recognized them in 1981 and the Australian National Kennel Council recognized the Crested in 1995.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Toy dog
Origin:
Spain
Mexico
Height Male:
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
28 - 30 cm
11 - 12 inches
Height Female:
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
26 - 28 cm
10 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
4 - 5 kg
8 - 12 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
3 - 4 kg
6 - 9 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 4
2 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Toy dog
Other Names:
Pyr Shep
Crested, Puff
Colors Available:
grey, black overlay occasionally, Fawn, some white - solid colors or tri-colored
Any color or combination of colors
Coat:
Long or short haired - soft or wiry
hairless or Puff has double coat
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Playful
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

pyrenean shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Pyrenean Shepherd is a medium-sized dog standing at between 38 and 50cm in height and weighing between 14 and 20kg.

His head is fairly small with large, bright, expressive eyes. The ears are semi-erect. The tail has always traditionally been docked but often left long these days.

He comes with two different coat types – rough and smooth with sometimes both types being in the same litter. The dog is a regular shedder. The coat can be medium length or long and slightly wavy with a harsh texture. The coat can be of the shorter type with finer, softer hair. The coat is available in different colors and patterns, and can be a fawn color or grey and you will find a black overlay occasionally with some white. The coat can be tri-colored or he can be in solid colors such as cream or white.

Temperament:

Your feisty Pyrenean Shepherd is a dog with plenty of personality. He is also full of energy and will love to live with a outdoorsy-type family who are always on the go, because he’s in on everything.

He is distrustful of strangers and this together with the fact that he is so alert, makes him a splendid watchdog too.

He will need to be trained and socialized as he can be overly robust. He becomes obedient and well mannered, being totally dedicated to his owner. It isn’t easy for him to be separated from his beloved human owner.

chinese crested dog puppy - descriptionThis is a toy breed and very small. The Hairless and the Powderpuff are two types of the same breed, although they do not look like it. The Hairless type can have fur anywhere on its body, but it will not have much. It will have hair on its paws, tail and head. The Powderpuff on the other hand will have a thick double coat. When discussing the color of the hairless, one is referring to the color of its skin. It can range from flesh to black.

The Powderpuff has a soft, thick, straight double coat. It can have very long hair. The Hairless must have its skin taken care of and protected. Both types of Chines Crested are small in stature with well proportioned, athletic bodies.

Characteristics

pyrenean shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is essentially a one-person dog, becoming totally attached to one particular person in the family.

He is known as a dog who becomes totally loyal to his human family, getting on well with children as well as with other pets in the home.

He is aloof and wary of strangers. Training and socialization is important so as to avoid aggression and fear. This is one dog that requires being diligently exercised every day.

He is a great watchdog, and when you add up all his fantastic qualities, you get to realize what a splendid companion and pet this wonderful dog makes.

chinese crested dog dog - characteristicsThe Chines Crested Dog is very intelligent and love to perform for audiences. They do well with obedience courses and they are very affectionate lap dogs. They want to be with you and on you or in your arms all the time. They are loyal and playful.

Health Problems

pyrenean shepherd puppies - health problemsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is such a jovial little dog that you just can’t imagine him ever being sick. When he is lethargic, you'll know there is something seriously wrong with him because he is always as bright as a button.

He can however get sick, and there are a few dog illnesses such as epilepsy, eye problems and hip dysplasia that can be very painful ad debilitating for such an energetic dog. You don’t have to be too concerned though, as he is a dog known to have minimal health issues.

chinese crested dog puppies - health problemsThe Chinese Crested Hairless version must have its skin take care of much in the same way we take care of our own. It will burn if exposed to too much sun without protection. They can suffer from dry skin, acne, need moisturizing cremes. They get skin allergies as well and it is important to take care of the skin instead of the brushing you don’t have to do.

The Chinese Crested does not suffer from most of the diseases other toy breeds do. They can have ye issues. The Hairless have a “primitive mouth” . They have pointy teeth and poor dentition. This is not true of the Powderpuffs however. Their eye issues include:

  • Lens Luxation
  • PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
  • Glaucoma

Other issues include:

  • Luxating Patellas
  • Legg-Perthes Disease
  • Canine Multiple System Degeneration (CMSD)
  • Allergies

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

pyrenean shepherd dogs - caringThis will depend on the coat type. Both coat types will essentially require you brushing him twice a week.

Exercise:

The Pyr Shep’s activity levels are very high and this dog will require living with people who love outdoor activities. He’s the perfect companion for those camping trips or hikes. He is always ready to join you on your walks and will be ready and waiting to jump right in when he sees you with a ball or frisbee.

Diet:

For all that energy, your Pyrenean Shepherd will be needing the best dog food there is. Food full of preservatives and colorants can be bad for your pet, detrimental to his health.

Good food full of vitamins and minerals will ensure your pet stands a good chance of living a long, healthy life. If you feed him commercially manufactured dog food, ensure its the best there is, with labeling on the packaging that tells you its for his age, his size and energy levels.

Consistency and simplicity is what your Pyrenean Shepherd wants, and home-made food can enhance his dry kibble. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots all chopped up and mixed into the dry kibble once or twice a week will ensure your pet’s eyes are continuously bright and alert and his tail constantly wagging.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also go towards ensuring his good health. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Feeding

chinese crested dog dogs - caringLike several other toy breeds, it is easy to overfeed the Chinese Crested because it has such a small stature. Feed once or twice a day but never more than one fourth of a cup total for the day.

Health issues

  • Lens Luxation – causes blindness and is inherited
  • PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) – can also lead to blindness
  • Glaucoma – also leads to blindness
  • Dry Eye Syndrome

Other issues include:

Luxating Patellas – kneecaps move out of place and cause lameness and arthritis

Legg-Perthes Disease – a hip disorder where blood does not reach the head of the femur. The bone dies, and growth stops.

Canine Multiple System Degeneration (CMSD) – a progressive movement disorder can call falls

  • Allergies – skin and sometimes food

Exercise and games

This Breed does not need an excessive amount of exercise, but they do enjoy running. They are competitive and athletic, so they can excel at flyball, lure coursing, agility and obedience. They are sensitive and trainable enough to become a therapy dog.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  4. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  6. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  8. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  10. Pyrenean Shepherd vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  12. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  13. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  14. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  15. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  16. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  17. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  18. Pyrenean Shepherd vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  19. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  21. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  22. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  23. Pyrenean Shepherd vs New Zealand Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  24. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund - Breed Comparison
  25. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Chihuahua vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Morkie vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Havanese vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Chorkie vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Pekingese vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  31. Chinese Crested Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Chinese Crested Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  33. Chinese Crested Dog vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  34. Chinese Crested Dog vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  35. Chinese Crested Dog vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  36. Chiweenie vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  37. Chug vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  38. Chipoo vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  39. Chiapom vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  40. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  41. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  42. Russian Toy Terrier vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  43. Franzuskaya Bolonka vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  44. Phalene vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  45. Cockachon vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  46. Shih Tzu vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Silky Terrier vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  48. Snorkie vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  49. Toy Bulldog vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  50. Toy Mi-Ki vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds