American Hairless Terriers

BREED CHARACTERISTICS & TEMPERAMENTS 

The American Hairless Terrier is a smart, inquisitive, playful dog that comes in both hairless and coated varieties. They are fearless and confident and love to work. This breed is energetic, alert, curious and intelligent. They require regular exercise, and appreciate down time and bonding with their families. 

They are well suited for a variety of canine activities and sports these little dogs are highly trainable. American terriers welcome opportunities to be stimulated, offering tasks or jobs will ensure your terrier is well balanced and happy. The lack of coat on the hairless renders them unsuitable for most hunting activities. They have, however, retained a strong hunting instinct and excel in many other activities and sports. Examples of fun activities you can participate in with your American Terrier include: Dog agility, dock diving (jumping), obedience, lure coursing, weight pulling, rally obedience, fly-ball, scent tracking, freestyle dancing, disc dog, trick dog (multiple levels) to name just a few. American terriers also perform well in confirmation (dog shows).

 Today most terriers are kept as companions and family pets. They are generally loyal and affectionate to their owners. These little terriers are exceptionally good with families and children. They are very social, enjoy playing with other dogs when properly introduced and socialized at a young age in a controlled environment. As terriers, they have high prey drive meaning they will chase any small animal (game) that runs, instinctually they will do what they are bred to do and flag down and catch quarry. 

While no dog is 100% allergen free, the lack of fur and undercoat means there is virtually no dander floating in the air. For many households, the American Hairless Dog hypoallergenic quality is the deciding factor in ownership. Because they do not have hair to shed, the spread allergens like pollen, dust, and mold spores that typically get trapped in a dog’s coat as less likely. Furthermore, the absence of fur means they are not carriers of fleas or ticks in the way coated dogs are, reducing the chemical load needed for pest control. For someone with asthma or allergies the American Hairless is an ideal choice for a companion dog.

CARE & MAINTENANCE

Being entirely hairless these dogs “do not shed” however, proper grooming such as exfoliation, regular bathing routines with antibacterial or gentle oatmeal based dog safe shampoos are highly recommended along with a daily moisturizing routine. However, how we ‘bathe’ hairless types matters. Replenishing the skin with essential oils and minerals after bathing is the most important factor.” When using moisturizing products do your research to confirm they are “dog safe” they will lick regardless of what you use, be sure it’s not toxic. Patch test in one area to avoid skin reactions. 

Hairless dogs have a mutation of the forkhead 13 gene (FOX13), which can lead to tooth loss, while this loss isn’t a result of dental disease or tooth decay you can reduce the rate of loss by regular maintenance. Brushing your dogs teeth should be part of your regular grooming routine. 

Direct sunlight is a hairless dog’s worst enemy, as they can suffer from dry skin, to blisters and sunburns from powerful UV rays. Thankfully, you have options for preventing skin conditions without sacrificing your dog’s outdoor playtime. It’s important to use “dog safe” skin protection in the form of sun screen. Amazon along with neighborhood pet stores will generally carry some form of dog safe sun screen. The same applies to cooler temps and cold weather. Protecting Hairless breeds from frostbite and hypothermia is critical during the winter months. Adorning them with protective clothing, boots and head protection to reduce the risk to limbs is mandatory. Hairless breeds have “no insulation” to protect them from the elements. Nails: Some owners of hairless dogs report that their pets’ nails grow faster than other breeds they’ve had. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed avoids breakage, discomfort, and problems gaining traction while walking. In most cases Terriers in general are not fans of having their feet manipulated and handled, early nail care will ensure they are comfortable with having their nails trimmed using a dog safe grinder or file.