American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is considered a great, if not the best, companion for allergy sufferers. This is a small dog with a big personality.

The American Hairless Terrier came about after the birth of one hairless pup in a litter of Rat Terriers, around 1972. This dog was given away as a gift, and immediately won the affection of their new family. This family, the Scotts’, eventually successfully bred her; resulting in the birth of a new breed, the dog now known as the American Hairless. Interestingly enough, the hairless gene of this breed is recessive while the hairless gene in all other hairless breeds is dominant.

Standing between 7 and 16 inches and weighing between 5 and 16 pounds, the American Hairless is a strong, well-muscled dog. They are intelligent, lively and always eager to please. Most are good with children, especially if they are socialized early in life. They are also good with other family pets, including cats.

Although territorial and considered a good watch dog, they are generally accepting of strangers. They do possess the feisty and fearless nature found in almost all terriers.

Because of the gene differences, this lovable dog does not suffer the skin and teeth problems that other hairless breeds succumb to. They do however need sunscreen and protection from the elements. Many owners prefer to put shirts or sweaters on their American Hairless for extra protection. They also have sweat glands so they do not pant or drool like most other breeds. They do need bathing at least a couple times a week as well as frequent applications of moisturizer to protect their fragile skin. Some develop allergic reactions to grass, resulting in a skin rash and others develop pimples. Both conditions are easily treated.

This breed is born with small amounts of fuzz on their bodies, but all hair is gone by six weeks of age. Their pink skin is generally dotted with brown, black or gray spots and is always moist and warm to the touch.

The American Hairless needs a small amount of exercise each day, but can certainly make do in an apartment, as long as a small area is available for playing. They enjoy a long life span of between 14 and 16 years.

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