Crustie
The Crustie is a cross between the Chinese Crested and the Yorkshire Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Crustie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a distinctive toy breed that stands between 11 and 13 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs between 8 and 12 pounds, though some individuals may range from 5 to 12 pounds. The breed is characterized by its fine-boned, elegant build and graceful movement that gives it an unmistakable presence despite its small size. One of the most unique aspects of this breed is that it comes in two distinct coat varieties that can appear in the same litter: the Hairless and the Powderpuff. Both varieties share the same body structure and temperament, differing only in their coat characteristics. The Hairless variety is perhaps the more recognizable of the two, featuring soft, smooth skin on the body with hair present only on specific areas: a flowing crest on the head, plume on the tail, and socks on the feet. The exposed skin requires special care and protection from sun exposure and extreme temperatures. The skin texture is soft and smooth, and all colors and color combinations are acceptable according to breed standards. The Powderpuff variety possesses a full double coat of soft, silky hair that covers the entire body, giving these dogs an elegant, flowing appearance that requires regular grooming to maintain. The Chinese Crested has a wedge-shaped head with a moderately rounded skull and a fine, tapered muzzle. The eyes are almond-shaped, dark, and set wide apart, contributing to the breed's alert and curious expression. The ears are large and erect in the Hairless variety, though they may droop in Powderpuffs due to the weight of the hair. One notable characteristic is the breed's hare feet, which are elongated with uniquely long toes that give the appearance of walking on long, slender digits. The tail is slender and tapers to a curve, carried gaily but not over the back. The overall impression is of a fine-boned, graceful dog with an almost otherworldly elegance that has made it a favorite among those seeking a unique companion.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Chinese Cresteds have relatively low to moderate exercise requirements, making them well-suited for apartment living. Daily walks of 30 to 60 minutes combined with indoor playtime typically meet their needs. The breed is known to be good with children when treated gently and respectfully, and they generally get along well with other pets in the household. They can be somewhat stubborn during training, responding best to patient, positive reinforcement methods. The breed has a notable love of digging, which owners should accommodate or redirect. While not excessive barkers, Chinese Cresteds are alert and will notify their owners of visitors or unusual activity, making them decent watchdogs despite their small size.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The Hairless variety is particularly susceptible to skin problems including acne, sunburn, and allergic reactions. These dogs require sunscreen when exposed to direct sunlight and may need moisturizers or other skin treatments. Additional health concerns affecting the breed include patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, which affects blood supply to the hip joint. Hip dysplasia can occur despite the breed's small size. Canine Multiple Systems Degeneration is a severe genetic neurological condition that is virtually exclusive to the Chinese Crested breed. Some Chinese Cresteds are born deaf. Hypothyroidism may develop and requires lifelong medication. Regular veterinary checkups and health screenings help ensure early detection and management of potential issues.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a compact toy breed that embodies elegance in a small package, with adults typically standing 6 to 9 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 7 pounds according to the American Kennel Club standard, though many pet-quality Yorkies range from 4 to 8 pounds. Despite their diminutive size, Yorkshire Terriers carry themselves with a confident, self-assured bearing that belies their tiny frames. The breed possesses a well-proportioned, compact body with a level topline and moderate bone structure that creates an overall impression of balance and refinement. The Yorkshire Terrier's coat is perhaps its most distinctive and celebrated feature. The long, silky, perfectly straight hair has a glossy, fine texture similar to human hair and grows continuously, requiring regular grooming to maintain its characteristic flowing appearance. The standard coloration is a distinctive blue and tan pattern, with the body and tail displaying a dark steel blue from the back of the head to the root of the tail, while the head, chest, and legs feature a rich golden tan. Puppies are born black and tan, with the blue coloration developing as they mature. The coat parts naturally down the center of the back and may be trimmed to floor length for show dogs or kept shorter for easier maintenance in pet homes. The Yorkshire Terrier's head is small and flat on top, with a medium-length muzzle and a black nose. The eyes are medium-sized, dark, and sparkling with intelligence, set forward-facing to create an alert, keen expression. The ears are small, V-shaped, and carried erect, positioned high on the head and covered with short hair. The tail was traditionally docked to medium length and carried slightly higher than the level of the back, though many countries now prohibit docking. The overall appearance should suggest a spirited, confident terrier with an air of importance and dignity that has made the breed a perennial favorite among toy dog enthusiasts.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Yorkshire Terriers are intelligent and can be trained effectively, though they possess a stubborn streak that requires patient, consistent handling. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods and can learn a variety of tricks and commands. Early socialization is important to prevent the development of Small Dog Syndrome, where the dog becomes overly protective, snappy, or difficult to handle. Yorkies may not be ideal for families with very young children, as their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury and they may become snappy if handled roughly. They are energetic despite their size and enjoy daily walks and play sessions, though their exercise needs are easily met in apartment settings with moderate daily activity.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease affects the hip joint and can cause lameness and pain, typically appearing in young dogs and often requiring surgical treatment. Portosystemic shunt, a liver condition where blood bypasses the liver rather than being filtered through it, occurs in Yorkies at higher rates than many other breeds. Eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and retinal dysplasia may affect vision. The breed is also prone to heart problems, particularly patent ductus arteriosus. Yorkshire Terriers can be sensitive to anesthesia, which should be discussed with veterinarians before any surgical procedures. Regular veterinary checkups, weight management, and attention to dental health are crucial for maintaining the long-term wellbeing of these charming little dogs.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Crustie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Chinese Crested and Yorkshire Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.