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 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, instinctively they will do what they are bred to do and flag down and catch quarry.

American Hairless Terriers lifespan is notably long, typically 14 to 16 years, owing to its status as a robust, lively breed. However, health problems do exist and are mostly related to their unique genetics. Skin issues are the most common complaint; without hair, the skin is exposed to the elements, leading to dry skin, acne (especially in adolescence), and cuts from rough play. Their skin is exceptionally soft and warm to the touch.

This breed is relatively easy to train and well suited for first time dog owners with support and guidance from an experienced terrier breeder. Terriers are highly alert and intelligent and work best with positive reinforcement training methods and structured routine. Harsh discipline can lead to lack of respect, fear biting or anxiety. Early socialization is crucial, terriers typically get along well with children and dogs when properly introduced. They are confident and outgoing and have no fear of strangers or making new friends. They are a great choice for young  families that are fairly active looking for a companion that thrives in most environments. American Hairless do well as apartment dogs, they are versatile and adapt well to most living situations, however, it’s worth mentioning they have a natural ability to guard and protect their families from anything or anyone that doesn’t belong in their territory and can be very vocal, barking warnings or during play.

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 is 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

Skin Care: Hairless these dogs “do not shed fur” 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. Replenishing the skin with essential oils and minerals after bathing is the most important factor, bathing can strip natural oils from their skin. 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. 

In the summer, dog safe sunscreen is mandatory while frolicking outdoors to prevent painful sunburns. 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 neighbourhood 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. They require clothing (dog suits or pj’s) for sleeping and waterproof, windproof coats for walks. Without protection they are susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite in temperatures that coated dogs can tolerate. Ears, tails and paws are highly sensitive to cold. To prevent skin damage it’s important to cover extremities when outdoors in cooler temperatures for any extended length of time. 

Dental care: Unlike other Hairless breeds which suffer through tooth loss, American Hairless generally have a full set of teeth with no real underlying dental issues given regular maintenance. They should white, well developed teeth, ideally with a scissors bite (upper teeth overlapping lower), though a level bite is acceptable. Brushing your dogs teeth should be part of your regular grooming routine.
 
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. 

The American Hairless Terrier is a wonderful newly introduced breed to Canada. Although well established in the US and parts of Europe it’s important to note with any breed as they gain popularity the numbers will slowly start to increase in Canada as we begin the process of showcasing, promoting and educating the public about these amazing littler terriers. It’s critical when researching a potential breeder to confirm they conduct proper health testing, adhere to the breed standard and practice ethical breeding strategies. As a preservation breeder of rare, hairless dogs Raven’s Ridge along with our sister Kennel Evlevage Erazzo in Quebec are committed to establishing healthy, well rounded companions. Our passion for the breed is our primary reason for establishing bloodlines in Canada. We are Canada’s FIRST American Hairless Terrier breeders to be listed in the Canadian Kennel Club puppy listings.