American Hairless Terrier

The history of this breed is truly unique and doesn’t begin in ancient times, but in 1972 in Louisiana, USA. In a litter of ordinary Rat Terriers belonging to the breeders Edwin and Willie Scott, a completely hairless puppy was born. This event was the result of a spontaneous natural mutation. The female puppy was named Josephine. She became the family’s favourite and laid the foundation for the purposeful breeding of a new variety.

The Scotts were so captivated by Josephine that they decided to solidify this unique trait. Over the following years, they meticulously worked on a breeding programme. Initially, successes were modest, but after nine years, they managed to produce the first litter that included two hairless puppies. This was a real breakthrough and allowed them to establish a stable line. It’s important to note that the hairlessness gene in the American Hairless Terrier is recessive, unlike the dominant gene in other hairless breeds such as the Xoloitzcuintli or the Peruvian Hairless Dog. This means that only hairless puppies are born from hairless parents, and the breed does not suffer from the dental problems often associated with other hairless breeds.

The breed received official recognition from the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2004, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognised it in 2016. Today, the American Hairless Terrier is a popular companion, especially in families with allergy sufferers.

The American Hairless Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog with well-developed musculature and harmonious proportions. Despite its elegance, it gives the impression of a sturdy and athletic canine. Its body is slightly longer than its height at the withers, giving it a rectangular outline.

• Body: Compact, muscular, with a deep chest and tucked-up abdomen.
• Neck: Long, elegant, smoothly transitioning into the shoulders.
• Limbs: Strong, straight, with well-developed muscles.
• Head: Wedge-shaped, proportionate to the body. Skull wide, slightly domed.
• Eyes: Expressive, obliquely set, can be any colour.
• Ears: V-shaped, erect or semi-erect, giving the dog an alert and inquisitive look.
• Skin: The main distinguishing feature of the breed. It is smooth and warm to the touch. Puppies are born with a thin coat of fur, which they completely lose by 8-10 weeks of age. The skin is usually pink with contrasting patches, which can be black, grey, golden, or reddish-brown. With age, the number and size of the patches may increase, and the skin itself may darken, especially when exposed to sunlight (tanning).

The American Hairless Terrier possesses a wonderful character, making it an ideal family pet. It’s an embodiment of energy, intelligence, and loyalty. Although its ancestors were rodent hunters, the modern AHT is primarily a companion. Its hunting instincts manifest in a love for active games and chasing toys, rather than actual prey.

This is a very people-oriented breed. They adore being the centre of attention, participating in all family activities, and do not cope well with solitude. Left alone for too long, a terrier may become bored and exhibit destructive behaviour. They get along splendidly with children, being tireless playmates. They also coexist well with other pets, especially if raised together. Despite their boldness, reminiscent of larger dogs like the Dogo Argentino, they are not prone to aggression. These are inquisitive, cheerful, and sociable dogs, whose company brings immense pleasure.

The American Hairless Terrier is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 14-16 years. Thanks to careful selection during breeding, many genetic problems have been avoided. However, their main characteristic – the absence of fur – creates certain risks.

1. Skin Problems: This is the most common issue. The skin is prone to sunburn, scratches, abrasions, dryness, and allergic rashes. It’s important to regularly inspect the skin for any damage or irritation.
2. Allergies: They may suffer from food or contact allergies, manifesting as rashes, redness, and itching.
3. Heart Diseases: Occasionally, lens luxation and heart conditions such as ventricular septal defect are encountered.
4. Hip Dysplasia: Although more characteristic of large breeds like the Dogue de Bordeaux, it can also occur in small terriers. It’s important to monitor the dog’s weight to avoid putting excessive strain on the joints.
5. Dental Problems: Like many small breeds, they are prone to tartar buildup, which requires regular care.

Prevention involves proper care, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and annual visits to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations.

Caring for this breed is not complicated, but it has its specificities related to the absence of fur.

Skin Care:

• Bathing: Bathe your dog regularly, approximately 1-2 times a week or as needed, using mild, hypoallergenic dog shampoos. This helps to wash away dirt and allergens.
• Sun Protection: In summer, before walks, always apply sunscreen with a high SPF, designed for animals or children, to your dog’s skin.
• Cold Protection: In winter and cold weather, the dog needs warm clothing: sweaters, jumpsuits, jackets.
• Moisturising: If the skin becomes dry, you can use special moisturising lotions or natural oils (e.g., coconut oil) after consulting with a vet.

Care of Teeth, Ears, and Claws:

• Teeth: Brush teeth 2-3 times a week with a special dog toothpaste to prevent tartar buildup.
• Ears: Regularly inspect ears and clean them as needed.
• Claws: Trim claws 1-2 times a month.

The American Hairless Terrier is a very intelligent and clever breed, which makes the training process easy and enjoyable. They are eager to please their owner and enthusiastically learn new commands and tricks. Positive reinforcement – treats, praise, toys – works best with them. Thanks to their energy and intelligence, they excel in various canine sports, such as agility, flyball, and obedience.

Early socialisation is key. Introduce your puppy to different people, sounds, places, and other animals so that they grow into a confident and well-behaved dog. Despite their friendliness, without proper socialisation, they can become timid or excessively noisy.

Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of health, especially for a dog with sensitive skin. The diet should be balanced and high-quality. You can choose either high-quality dry food or a natural diet.

For a natural diet, an adult dog’s daily intake should consist of approximately:

• 50% Protein: lean meat (turkey, chicken, beef), offal, sea fish.
• 25% Carbohydrates: porridges (buckwheat, rice).
• 25% Fibre: vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, courgette), greens.

It’s beneficial to add vegetable oils (flaxseed, olive) and fermented milk products (kefir, low-fat cottage cheese) to the diet if the dog tolerates them well. In case of skin allergies, it is necessary to immediately review the diet and consult a vet.

• Sweating Through Skin: Unlike most dogs, who cool down primarily through panting, American Hairless Terriers can sweat through their skin.
• Size Variety: There are two varieties of the breed: miniature (up to 33 cm) and standard (from 33 to 46 cm).
• Not Just Hairless: There is also a coated variety of the American Terrier (Coated American Hairless Terrier). They have a short, smooth coat and are born in the same litter as the hairless puppies. They are essential for maintaining the genetic diversity of the breed.
• “Smiling” Dogs: Many owners note that their pets can “smile,” showing their teeth in moments of joy, which is a characteristic trait of the breed.

Do they get very cold in winter?
Yes, due to the lack of fur, they are very sensitive to cold. In winter, they need warm clothing for walks and possibly boots to protect their paws.

Can they be left alone?
They do not cope well with solitude. If you spend a lot of time away from home, this breed may not be suitable for you. They should not be left alone for more than 4-5 hours.

Do they have an odour?
No, American Hairless Terriers practically have no specific “doggy” odour, which is another plus for apartment living.

Is their skin care complicated?
Care is not complicated, but it is regular. It boils down to protection from sun and cold, periodic bathing, and moisturising. This is simpler than daily brushing of long-haired breeds.