If you had told me a few years ago that my life would be filled with the tiny pitter-patter of paws and the endless affection of two Chinese Crested dogs, I would have smiled and thought, maybe one day. Now, that day is my every day — and I couldn’t imagine it any other way.
Meet Derek and Gerald: my quirky, lovable little companions, a handsome pair of Chinese crested hairless dogs. Derek, my “big brother” of the duo, is three years old. He’s the kind of dog who seems to have been born ready to be loved — confident, cheeky, and just the right amount of mischievous. Gerald, on the other hand, is the newest (and slightly shyer) addition to our family. At just two years old, he came to us a few months ago with a heart full of fear but little by little, he’s letting us in — and watching his transformation has been one of the most beautiful things I’ve experienced.
Adventures with My Chinese Crested Hairless Dogs
Finding Their Pack: London Chihuahua Meet-Ups
One of our favourite rituals is attending the monthly London Chihuahua Meet-Ups. Now, I know what you’re thinking — aren’t they Chinese Cresteds? Yes, they are, but they also have plenty of chihuahua in their DNA, trust me – We have DNA tested them!
Derek, naturally, acts like he owns the place: strutting his stuff, greeting every dog and human like an old pal. Gerald has been a little more cautious, sticking close to me at first, tail tucked tightly, unsure of all the new faces. But with each passing meet-up, I’ve watched him take a few more brave steps: a sniff here, a tentative wag there. Last month, he even had a little playful tumble with another shy pup — a milestone that made my heart just about burst.
Life with Two Chinese Cresteds
Life with Chinese Cresteds is never boring. They are such wonderfully odd little beings — naked (apart from their tufts of hair), expressive, and full of character. Derek is especially fond of burrowing under blankets like a little mole, while Gerald has recently discovered the simple joy of sunbathing by the window, ears perked up, soaking in the warmth.
What I love most is how they balance each other out. Derek’s boldness seems to lend Gerald a bit of courage when he needs it most, while Gerald’s gentle spirit has brought out a more tender side in Derek that I hadn’t seen before. They aren’t just dogs — they’re little personalities, little stories in motion.
Watching Gerald Grow
Bringing Gerald into our lives hasn’t just changed his life; it’s changed ours too. Patience, trust, and unconditional love — these are lessons he teaches me daily. Watching him blossom has been a reminder that growth often happens in the smallest, quietest moments.
Every tiny victory — a playful bark, a wagging tail, a new friend — feels monumental. And every cuddle reminds me that sometimes, the shyest souls have the most love to give.
The Adventures Ahead
So, here’s to Derek and Gerald — the heart and soul of our little world. Our days are filled with snuggles, play dates, and countless moments of joy (and, let’s be honest, the occasional chewed slipper). I can’t wait to see what adventures lie ahead for us.
If you ever spot us at a meet-up or out on a walk in London, don’t be shy — Derek and Gerald would love to say hello (well, Derek certainly will… and Gerald might, if he’s feeling brave).
Debz Louise is a plus-size blogger based in Yorkshire. Behind many nationwide campaigns such as #WeaAreTheThey & winner of Best Blogger at the UK Plus Size Awards, she talkas about life as a plus-size 40-something woman in South Yorkshire.
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