American Hairless Terrier
Quick Summary
Unique hairless terrier ideal for allergy sufferers. Best for active owners who can provide consistent care and protection from elements. Perfect blend of companionship and adaptability.
Contents
Weight Range
12-16 lbs
♂ Male: 12-16 lbs
♀ Female: 12-16 lbs
Height Range
30-41 inches
♂ Male: 12-16"
♀ Female: 12-16"
Life Expectancy
14-16 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #65
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in Louisiana during the 1970s from a hairless mutation in Rat Terriers
Popularity
#136
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 12"-16" |
| Female Height | 12"-16" |
| Male Weight | 12-16 lbs |
| Female Weight | 12-16 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1500-$3000), supplies, and medical checks. Monthly expenses cover premium food, skin care products, and preventive healthcare. Additional costs for clothing and sun protection.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Energetic and alert terriers with a curious, friendly disposition. Shows high intelligence and eagerness to please, though can display typical terrier stubbornness. Social with family and generally good with other pets when properly socialized.
Social Needs
Thrives on human companionship and requires daily interaction. Generally good with other dogs but early socialization is important. Can handle alone time if properly trained, but prefers company.
Breed Overview
American Hairless Terriers showcase a muscular, elegant build with smooth, warm skin in various color combinations. Their alert expression and graceful movement reflect their terrier heritage. Standing 12-16 inches at the shoulder, these dogs display a balanced, athletic physique with a distinctive wedge-shaped head and expressive eyes that convey their intelligent, inquisitive nature.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Hypoallergenic
- ✓ Great for families
- ✓ Low maintenance grooming
- ✓ Highly adaptable
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
Cons
- ✗ Needs sun protection
- ✗ Temperature sensitive
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Requires regular exercise
- ✗ May be vocal
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Energetic, Alert, Curious |
| Energy Level | |
| Trainability | |
| Grooming Needs | |
| Shedding |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and agility activities. Moderate to high intensity level activities help maintain their physical and mental well-being. Enjoys interactive games and terrier-specific sports.
Diet & Nutrition
Feed 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special consideration needed for skin health through omega-rich foods. Requires consistent feeding schedule with precise portion control.
Requires 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Diet should support skin health with adequate omega fatty acids. Fresh water always available. Avoid overfeeding as they can gain weight easily.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal for homes with secure yards. Temperature-sensitive due to hairless nature - needs climate control and sun protection.
Adapts well to various living situations, from apartments to houses. Minimum space requirements are modest, but needs secure outdoor area for exercise. Highly adaptable to different environments with proper temperature control.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Emerging from a hairless mutation in a litter of Rat Terriers in Louisiana, dedicated breeders developed this unique variety into a distinct breed. Their development focused on creating a companion dog suitable for allergy sufferers.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Louisiana during the 1970s from a hairless mutation in Rat Terriers. Bred specifically as companion dogs and for families seeking hypoallergenic pets.
Fun Fact
They're born with a fine coat of fur that falls out, leaving them completely hairless by 6-8 weeks of age!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs sun protection and temperature regulation. Regular skin care required. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Special attention to dental hygiene important.