American Hairless Terrier Breed description: Character & Co

Facts & Origin

American Hairless Terriers are the perfect companions for people with dog hair allergies.

The origin of the American Hairless Terrier

This particular breed originated from the Rat Terrier. Other ancestors include the English smooth-haired Fox Terrier as well as Manchester Terriers.

In a litter of Rat Terriers, a hairless kitten was born in 1988. The breeders gave the puppy away to a couple who were friends. The new owners were so enthusiastic about their "Josephine" that they started a new breeding with her.

At first Jospehine was mated by several Rat Terriers and gave birth to only one other naked dog. All the other puppies were hairy. It was not until Edwin and Willie Scott ventured a final litter with one of Jospehine's sons as sire that another naked female was born. In the meantime a separate breed has developed from these three animals.

The United Kennel Club fully recognized the breed in 2004, but the FCI has not yet done so.

hairless dog
originated from the Rat Terrier
only recognized by the UKC, not by the FCI
suitable for allergy sufferers

Banner: Shutterstock / Jordi Calvera

Dog,Mammal,Vertebrate,Dog breed,Canidae,Carnivore,Italian greyhound,Grass,Snout,Companion dog,

Mammal,Vertebrate,Dog breed,Dog,Canidae,Dog collar,Collar,Snout,Carnivore,Non-Sporting Group,

Dog,Mammal,Vertebrate,Dog breed,Canidae,Carnivore,Snout,American hairless terrier,Peruvian hairless dog,Italian greyhound,

Alternate Name	-
Origin	USA
Life expectancy	12 - 14 years
Care requirements	low-maintenance

Activity level	average
FCI group	not recognised
AKC group	Terrier Group
KC group	not recognised

Attitude, character and temperament of the breed

Character traits and nature of the American Hairless Terrier

They are typical terriers with a pleasant and controllable temperament. As former rat hunters they are nimble, agile and mobile. Most of all, the American Hairless Terrier likes to dissipate its energy while romping around and playing. Long walks, bike rides or agility are also suitable for him.

Terriers are basically very sensitive and should be managed with consistency and tact. In the house he is considered uncomplicated and people-friendly. Caution is advised with small animals in the house.

pleasant terrier temperament
with a lot of energy, but controllable
people friendly and eager to learn

Character

active
energetic
intelligent
concentrated
alive
affectionate
playful
vigilant
inquisitive

Usage

Family Dog

Health and breeding information

Breeding, acquisition and keeping of the American Hairless Terrier

If you want to keep a terrier, you should also have time during the day or someone to look after your dog. If he feels lonely, he tends to gnaw furniture or be destructive.

This dog is rare, but not impossible to get. Since it is not an official breed, prices vary widely. When buying a dog, always look for reliable breeders who make a loving impression on you.

American Hairless Terrier breed description, breed description, temperament, hairless breed, hair allergy dog, allergy dog, hypoallergenic breed

The breed characteristics of the American Hairless Terrier

If you have never seen a Hairless Terrier before, the hairlessness may seem strange at first. However, these animals are quite normal dogs and look very attractive with their silky soft skin.

As puppies they are born slightly hairy. The real Hairless Terriers lose these few hairs after a few weeks. The skin of the animals tans in the sun. In winter they are lighter than in summer. Intense sun or cold weather may require protective measures (sunscreen and coat), especially for the lighter types.

Appearance and coat of the American Hairless Terrier

Due to the fine pigmentation of the skin, one might think at first glance that he has a very fine coat. In fact, however, this sheen emanates from the silky soft skin. The skin color ranges from a soft white-pink to gray or light brown. There may be light or dark brown, grey, reddish or black spots on the skin.

The legs are high, the body is slender and muscular. The ears are pointed upwards and are always directed towards reception. The head is slender, graceful and fits perfectly to the elegant body line. The tail is pointed and also hairless.

The skin needs no special care. Coarse dirt should be removed with a soft brush or the dog should be bathed. The American Hairless Terrier has almost no inherent odor.