American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier: An overview of a fascinating dog breed

History of the American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier originated in the 1970s in Louisiana, USA. A hairless puppy, born in a litter of Rat Terriers, attracted the attention of breeders Edwin and Willie Scott. They decided to keep this special dog and named her Josephine. Josephine laid the foundation for the development of the breed by giving birth to more hairless puppies. Through targeted breeding programmes, the American Hairless Terrier was finally recognized as a breed in its own right.

Who is the American Hairless Terrier suitable for?

The American Hairless Terrier is ideal for people with allergies as it does not shed hair and therefore spreads fewer allergens in the environment. This breed is also perfect for active individuals or families looking for a playful and energetic companion. Their small size and adaptability make them suitable for both urban and rural living.

Character of the American Hairless Terrier

This breed is known for its lively, intelligent and friendly character. American Hairless Terriers are curious, playful and love to spend time with their families. They are alert and have a strong bond with their owners, making them great watchdogs.

Appearance of the American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is medium in size and has a muscular, athletic build. As the name suggests, these dogs are mostly hairless, although there is also a rare variety with a short, soft coat. Their skin is soft and can have different colors and patterns. They have erect ears and an alert, attentive expression.

Grooming the American Hairless Terrier

Although the American Hairless Terrier does not require regular grooming, its skin requires special attention. The skin should be wiped regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and oil. Gentle sun protection is necessary to avoid sunburn, and in winter the dog should be protected from the cold.

Health of the American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is generally a healthy breed. They are not prone to many of the genetic diseases that affect other breeds. However, it is important to schedule regular vet visits and watch for skin problems that can arise from their hairlessness.

Size and weight of the American Hairless Terrier

This breed is small to medium in size, with adult dogs reaching a height of around 25 to 46 cm. The weight usually varies between 3.5 and 7 kg, depending on sex and build.

Exercise requirements and suitability for the city

American Hairless Terriers are very active and need sufficient daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Regular walks and playtime are a must. However, thanks to their size and adaptability, they are also suitable for city life as long as they get enough exercise.

Training recommendations

These intelligent dogs learn quickly and are eager to please their owners. Positive reinforcement and consistent training are the keys to success. Puppy schools and obedience training are recommended to socialize the dog well and teach it the basics of obedience.

Detailed grooming instructions

In addition to regular cleaning of the skin, it is important to pay attention to skin injuries. Scratches and cuts can easily occur in hairless dogs and should be treated immediately. Regular ear checks and nail clipping are also necessary. A balanced diet and sufficient exercise contribute to the dog's general health.

Behavioral characteristics and interactions with children and other animals

American Hairless Terriers are friendly and social dogs that get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. They are playful and patient, which makes them great family dogs. Nevertheless, interactions with smaller children should always be supervised to ensure that the dog does not become overwhelmed.

Recognition by the FCI

The American Hairless Terrier is not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), but is recognized by other major dog associations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC).

Interesting facts about the American Hairless Terrier

An interesting detail about this breed is that they do not get common parasites such as fleas and lice, as they lack the coat in which these parasites could hide. They are also known for their longevity and can live up to 14-16 years.