Chinese Crestese

The history of the Chinese Crested is controversial but many believe that it has been around since the 1200s and was used as a bed warmer for the Aztecs. Some believe it is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Mexican Hairless dog, while others claim the breed originated in Africa in the 1300s and was bought by the Chinese to barter with on their trading ships. That is supposedly how the breed managed to become popular all over the globe. However, there is evidence that the breed was around in China before the 1200s so this is not certain. In the 1800s, they found evidence that the Chinese Crested existed in Europe in paintings and photographs as far back as the 13th century. The Chinese Crested became popular in the United States when Ida Garrett, who was a breeder, introduced them to the American public. Another story claims that a famous stripper named Gypsy Rose Lee was a breeder who improved the breed. The Chinese Crested was finally accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1991 where it became the 77th most popular dog breed in the United States. The Maltese was one of the oldest known breeds and was discovered in 1500 BC when the Phoenician sailors visited the Island of Malta, where the breed originated. Breeders in Italy added the Poodle and Miniature Spaniel to the bloodline and the breed came in many different colors back then. Today, the Maltese is known for its long, silky, white coat and small size. In the 14th century, this breed became popular with the wealthy English women who carried the little dogs in their sleeve. It did not get registered by the AKC until 1888 where it is now the 33rd most popular breed of dog.