Hairless mutations have occurred in pariah-type litters, and from these the modern hairless breeds have evolved, likely first developing in Africa. Hairless dogs captivated the attention and fancy of ancient dog lovers in Africa, Mexico, Spain and China. During the Han dynasty, the Chinese Crested dogs were cultivated into two types: "treasure house guardians," or deer-type, and the larger, heavier cobby "hunting dog," which, when he didn't bring home meat, was the main ingredient in the cooking pot.

Other hairless varieties, like the African Elephant Dog, or the Abyssinian Sand Dog, developed in similar warm climates.

Fortunately for the breed, Chinese dogs accompanied their masters on trade vessels throughout the world, leaving mementos of their visits behind. True to the dominant genetics, hairlessness would show up in that first Utter!