Chinese Crested vs Pomeranian

Which dog breed is right for you?

Chinese Crested

Size
8–12 lbs, 11–13 in
Lifespan
13–18 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Affectionate Lively Alert Playful

Pomeranian

Size
3–7 lbs, 6–7 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Bold Lively Curious Extroverted

About the Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is one of the most visually striking toy breeds, coming in two distinct varieties — the Hairless, with silky hair only on the head, feet, and tail, and the Powderpuff, covered in a soft, flowing double coat. Weighing 8–12 pounds and standing 11–13 inches tall, these elegant dogs likely originated in Africa before being refined by Chinese traders who used them as ratters on ships. The Hairless variety's exposed skin can be solid or spotted in shades of pink, black, slate, and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Chinese Cresteds are deeply affectionate and almost cat-like in their love of perching on high surfaces and curling up under blankets. They're remarkably attuned to their owner's emotions — often described as velcro dogs who follow their person from room to room. They generally get along well with other pets and gentle children, though they can be timid around strangers without proper socialization.

Pros

  • Hairless variety is ideal for allergy sufferers — produces minimal dander
  • Low exercise needs — happy with short walks and indoor play sessions
  • Exceptionally clean dogs with virtually no doggy odor
  • Highly adaptable to apartment living and small spaces

Cons

  • Hairless variety requires sunscreen, moisturizer, and skin care to prevent acne and sunburn
  • Prone to dental issues — Hairless variety often has missing or crowded teeth
  • Susceptible to cold temperatures and needs protective clothing in winter
  • Can develop severe separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods

Looking for an affectionate and unique companion? Check out Chinese Crested dogs available for adoption on Puplister.

About the Pomeranian

The Pomeranian descends from large sled-pulling spitz dogs of Iceland and Lapland, selectively bred down to toy size in the Pomerania region of northeastern Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries — Queen Victoria famously popularized the smaller variety. These tiny dogs weigh just 3 to 7 pounds and stand 6 to 7 inches tall, yet carry themselves with unmistakable confidence. Their magnificent double coat — a dense undercoat beneath a profuse, standoff outer coat — comes in nearly every color and pattern imaginable, with orange and red being most popular.

Temperament & Personality

Pomeranians are vivacious, bold, and surprisingly commanding for their size — they have no concept of how small they are and will happily try to boss around much larger dogs. They are devoted to their owners and can be excellent companions for singles and seniors, though they may be too fragile and snappy for homes with very young children. Poms are intelligent and curious, learning tricks quickly, but they also have a strong independent streak inherited from their spitz ancestry.

Pros

  • Tiny size makes them ideal for apartment living and travel
  • Alert and vocal watchdog — always aware of surroundings
  • Intelligent and responsive to training with positive methods
  • Long lifespan of 12 to 16 years with proper care

Cons

  • Profuse shedding — the fluffy coat requires brushing several times weekly
  • Prone to luxating patella, tracheal collapse, and severe dental disease
  • Fragile bones easily injured by falls, rough handling, or being stepped on
  • Excessive barking can become a serious behavioral issue without training

These tiny furballs pack enormous personality — find Pomeranians seeking loving homes on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Chinese Crested and a Pomeranian?
The Chinese Crested is 8–12 lbs, 11–13 in sized while the Pomeranian is 3–7 lbs, 6–7 in sized. They differ in size (8–12 lbs, 11–13 in vs 3–7 lbs, 6–7 in), lifespan (13–18 years vs 12–16 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Chinese Crested or Pomeranian?
Chinese Crested is generally good with kids. Pomeranian is not typically good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Chinese Crested or Pomeranian?
The Chinese Crested has a lifespan of 13–18 years while the Pomeranian has a lifespan of 12–16 years.

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