Chinaranian

The Chinaranian is a combination of a Chinese Crested and a Pomeranian, also known as a Pom or Pom Pom, and who is the smallest member of the Spitz family of dogs. They are feisty, intelligent dogs whose owners have included luminaries such as theologian Martin Luther, artist Michelangelo, physicist Isaac Newton and composer Mozart. They are named for the Pomerania region in Germany and Poland where it was believed they were bred down to size. The breed was also popular with British royalty including Queen Victoria who bred the smaller variety of Pomeranians. It is claimed that on her deathbed she asked for her favorite Pom called Turi to be with her. Although the first Pom, called Dick, was entered into the American Kennel Club (AKC) stud book in 1888 it was only in 1900 that the AKC officially recognized the breed. Despite the name, Chinese Crested dogs don't come from China. There are two varieties, the Hairless and the Powderpuff, with the Hairless gene being the dominant in these dogs. They are believed to be related to the African Hairless Dog or the Mexican Hairless Dog, also known as the Xoloitzcuintli. This may indicate that the origins are of Africa or Mexico . The American Hairless Dog Club was started in 1959 by Debra Wood; the Chinese Crested was recognized by the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom in 1981 and added to the roster of the American Kennel Club in 1991.