American Hairless Terrier
Profile
The American Hairless Terrier is a small, energetic breed known for their lack of fur. They are intelligent, playful, and loyal companions, making them great family pets. Their smooth, hairless skin requires regular sunscreen and moisturizing to protect from the sun.
Characteristics | Details |
Dog Breed Name | American Hairless Terrier |
Breed Group | Terrier Group |
Origin | United States |
Alternative Names | AHT, Hairless Terrier, American Hairless Terrier |
Suitable Weather | Moderate to warm weather |
Avg. Weight | 12-28 pounds |
Avg. Height | 12 to 16 inches |
Life Expectancy | 12-16 years |
Coat Color | The coat color of the American Hairless Terrier is typically pink or mottled pink and black. |
Coat Type | Hairless |
Shedding Frequency | American Hairless Terrier typically sheds very little or not at all. |
Activity Level | High |
Hypoallergenic | Yes |
Grooming | Low |
Dog Cost | $1,000 – $2,000 |
History
The American Hairless Terrier is a relatively new breed that originated in the United States in the 1970s. It is a result of a spontaneous genetic mutation in a litter of Rat Terriers, leading to a completely hairless puppy.
Breeders selectively bred these hairless dogs to create the American Hairless Terrier, which is known for its friendly and energetic nature.
Highlights
The American Hairless Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed known for its lack of fur, making it a hypoallergenic option for allergy sufferers.
Despite their lack of hair, these terriers are still energetic and playful, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.
American Hairless Terriers are social dogs that enjoy being around their human family members and are good with children when properly socialized.
Appearance
The American Hairless Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog breed that typically weighs between 12 to 28 pounds and stands around 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
They have a smooth, sleek coat with no hair, making them hypoallergenic and low maintenance in terms of grooming. They have a muscular build and a lively, alert expression, with a friendly and energetic demeanor.
Personality & Behaviour
The American Hairless Terrier is a lively, intelligent, and affectionate breed known for their playful and energetic nature. They are loyal and devoted to their families, making them excellent companions.
This breed is highly social and thrives on human interaction, enjoying being a part of all family activities. They are also known for their alert and curious nature, making them excellent watchdogs.
American Hairless Terriers are adaptable and can do well in various living situations, as long as they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Temperament
Compatibility with Children | Good with Children |
Compatibility with other Dogs | Good with Other Dogs |
Compatibility with Strangers | Highly Friendly |
Playfulness | Highly Playful |
Protectiveness | Moderate Protective |
Trainability Level | Highly Trainable |
Energy Level | High |
Barking Level | Moderate |
Need of Exercise | High |
Compatibility with Children
The American Hairless Terrier is known for being a playful, energetic, and affectionate breed, making them great companions for children. They are typically gentle and patient with kids, enjoying active playtime and bonding with their young family members.
Their hypoallergenic coat also makes them a good choice for families with allergies. However, it is important to supervise interactions between the American Hairless Terrier and children to ensure that both parties are safe and comfortable.
Compatibility with other Pets
American Hairless Terriers are generally good with other pets, especially if they are raised together from a young age. They are known to get along well with other dogs, cats, and even smaller animals like rabbits.
However, it is important to supervise interactions and provide proper socialization to ensure that they coexist peacefully. Some American Hairless Terriers may have a high prey drive, so caution should be taken when introducing them to smaller animals.
Overall, with proper introductions and training, American Hairless Terriers can be compatible with other pets.
Best Compatible Dogs with American Hairless Terrier
1. Rat Terrier
2. Miniature Pinscher
3. Italian Greyhound
4. Chihuahua
5. French Bulldog
Care Requirements
The American Hairless Terrier is a low-maintenance breed that requires regular grooming to maintain their hairless coat. They should be bathed regularly to keep their skin clean and free of dirt and debris.
Their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections. They are an active breed that requires daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
Mental stimulation is also important for this intelligent breed, so providing them with puzzle toys and training opportunities is recommended.
Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are essential for their overall health and well-being.
Monthly Maintenance Cost
The American Hairless Terrier is a low maintenance breed that requires minimal grooming due to its lack of hair. However, there are still monthly maintenance costs associated with owning this breed. These costs may include:
- Food: $30-$50 per month
- Veterinary care: $50-$100 per month (including regular check-ups and vaccinations)
- Toys and treats: $20-$30 per month
- Training classes: $50-$100 per month
- Miscellaneous expenses (such as grooming supplies): $10-$20 per month
Overall, the monthly maintenance costs for an American Hairless Terrier can range from $160 to $300.
Health
The American Hairless Terrier is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. It is important for owners to be aware of these common health problems and take necessary precautions to prevent them.
Some of the common health issues in American Hairless Terriers include:
1. Skin allergies: Due to their lack of hair, American Hairless Terriers are more susceptible to skin allergies and irritations. Regular grooming and proper hygiene can help prevent skin issues.
2. Dental problems: Like many small breeds, American Hairless Terriers are prone to dental issues such as tartar buildup and gum disease. Regular teeth cleaning and dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health.
3. Patellar luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing pain and discomfort. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight and regular exercise can help prevent this issue.
To ensure the overall health and well-being of your American Hairless Terrier, it is important to provide regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and proper grooming. By taking these precautions, you can help your furry friend live a long and healthy life.
Food & Feeding
The American Hairless Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed that requires a balanced diet to maintain their overall health and well-being.
It is important to feed them high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients.
Feeding the American Hairless Terrier twice a day is recommended to prevent overeating and obesity. The quantity of food will vary depending on the dog’s age, size, and activity level.
It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion size for your individual dog.
Feeding timings for the American Hairless Terrier:
1. Morning: 7-8 am
2. Evening: 5-6 pm
In addition to their regular meals, it is important to provide them with fresh water throughout the day to keep them hydrated. Treats should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain. Overall, a balanced diet and regular feeding schedule will help keep your American Hairless Terrier healthy and happy.
Fun Facts About American Hairless Terrier
1. The American Hairless Terrier is a relatively new breed, originating in the United States in the 1970s.
2. Despite their name, not all American Hairless Terriers are completely hairless. Some may have a light coat of fur on their bodies, while others may be truly hairless.
3. American Hairless Terriers are known for their friendly and energetic personalities, making them great companions for active individuals and families.
4. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable, excelling in obedience and agility training.
5. American Hairless Terriers are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, as they do not shed and only require occasional baths to keep their skin healthy.
Cost
The average cost of an American Hairless Terrier ranges from $800 to $1,500. Prices may vary depending on the breeder, location, and pedigree. Some breeders may charge as low as $500 for a pet-quality puppy, while show-quality puppies can cost upwards of $2,000.
