Cute American Hairless Terrier: A Complete Guide to Ownership

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Posted Oct 20, 2024

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The American Hairless Terrier is a unique and charming breed that's perfect for those who want a low-maintenance companion.

They come in both hairless and coated varieties, with the hairless version being the most recognizable.

Their skin requires regular care to prevent oil buildup and skin problems.

They're highly social and love to be around people, making them great family pets.

The American Hairless Terrier is a relatively small dog, weighing between 10-20 pounds and standing about 10-18 inches tall.

They're highly intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times.

Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential to keep them happy and healthy.

Their lifespan is around 12-14 years with proper care and attention.

Physical Characteristics

The American hairless terrier has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other breeds. Their primary distinguishing factor is indeed their hairlessness, which is a result of a genetic mutation that causes their thin puppy coat to shed after a month of age and never regrow.

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Their skin can vary greatly in color, with options ranging from black, white, grey, blue, red, and brown, and they can be born with one solid color or a combination of two or three. They're a small yet well-muscled breed, standing at just 12-16 inches tall.

Their triangular ears typically stand upright, though sometimes the tips neatly fold over, giving them a cute and endearing look.

Appearance

The American hairless terrier's baldness is actually a normal trait, thanks to a genetic mutation that causes their thin puppy coat to shed after a month of age and never regrow.

Their skin is not typically light pink, but rather comes in a variety of pigments, including black, white, grey, blue, red, and brown, and can be a single color or a combination of two or three.

They're a small breed, standing at just 12–16 inches tall.

Their triangular ears are usually upright, but sometimes the tips fold over neatly.

Their tail is tapered and curves slightly, and is always wagging when they see their favorite human.

Size

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The American hairless terrier is a small but mighty breed. They typically stand at 12-16 inches tall.

Both males and females tend to be about the same size, ranging from 12 to 16 inches tall. This small stature is one of the breed's defining characteristics.

These little pups stay small, usually weighing in at around 12-16 pounds. Their compact size makes them perfect for apartment living or for families with small children.

Temperament & Intelligence

The American Hairless Terrier has a trademark terrier attitude, carrying on the courageous and bold spirit of their rat terrier ancestors.

They're active dogs that love playtime with children and other pups, making them a great fit for families.

However, due to their high prey drive, they may not play well with cats or other small animals.

Socializing them with other small animals from an early age can help them become friends with cats and other pets.

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American Hairless Terriers are intelligent, curious, and lively dogs that require daily walks and adequate playtime to expend their energy.

They're not happy cooped up all day alone and need proper exercise and attention to stay happy and healthy.

These dogs do well with puppy classes and are eager to learn commands once they know you're in charge.

Their biddable nature makes them a great training companion, and many dog owners find teaching them to be a breeze.

American Hairless Terriers are alert canines that make great watchdogs, alerting you to anything suspicious they notice.

They're also protective, but they lighten up quickly once they decide they like you.

Care and Grooming

American Hairless Terriers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they still need regular care.

Their skin needs to be washed regularly, so you should bathe them about once a week with a mild dog shampoo. You should also pat their skin dry after bathing.

They are prone to dry skin, so be sure to use a canine shampoo for sensitive skin.

Care

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American Hairless Terriers are energetic dogs that need regular exercise and mental stimulation. They require basic grooming, but with extra care when it comes to their skin.

Bathe your American Hairless Terrier about once a week with a mild dog shampoo and pat their skin dry. In hot weather, apply a moisturizing sunscreen to protect their skin.

Their delicate skin can become easily dry, irritated, or cracked, so use a canine shampoo for sensitive skin when bathing. Regular ear cleaning is also essential, checking for debris and signs of infection.

Keep their teeth clean by brushing them regularly and trim their nails to keep them healthy and happy. An American Hairless Terrier's skin is very exposed, so it's essential to be gentle when handling them.

In cold weather, provide a practical and well-fitting coat outdoors, and consider a fleecy sweater indoors if your home is drafty. This will help keep them warm and comfortable.

Exercise

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Exercise is essential for American Hairless Terriers, as they were bred to hunt rodents and can become restless if cooped up for too long.

They require moderate exercise of around 45 minutes a day to stay fit and happy. This can include brisk walks, playtime in the yard, or agility training.

Keeping your American Hairless Terrier physically stimulated will greatly improve their quality of life.

Training and Socialization

American Hairless Terriers are very smart and trainable, doing well with puppy classes right away to get them socialized. They learn quickly to behave around other dogs and people.

They do well with authority, so it's essential to establish yourself as the leader and make sure they know you're in charge. This will help them become eager to continue listening to your commands.

These dogs want to make you happy, making training a breeze. Follow standard training techniques, teaching them commands and rewarding them with treats.

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Puppy classes are a great option for American Hairless Terriers, as they thrive in a social setting and will do well in class. They're playful, curious, and energetic, making them highly entertaining companions for families and singles.

Their biddable nature makes them great training companions, and many dog owners find that teaching them isn't too much of a challenge. They're alert canines, vigilant and watchful, making them a great watchdog despite their small size.

Family-Friendly

American Hairless Terriers are a great choice for families. They get along well with everyone in the family, as long as they're socialized from an early age.

With proper training and socialization, they'll behave around the children in the home. However, it's still a good idea to supervise interactions between dogs and small children, especially in new situations.

They're friendly with other dogs and will often make friends easily. Their territorial side might come out when confronted with another dog, but they usually bounce back quickly.

You can expect your American Hairless Terrier to be friendly with strangers as well. They love everyone and are always up for making new friends.

They also get along well with other animals in the house, especially if they were raised together. They're just happy to be everyone's pal.

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Buying and Owning

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If you're considering bringing an American Hairless Terrier into your life, you'll want to think carefully about whether you can provide for their needs. This includes their dietary requirements, exercise and training needs, grooming care, and more.

Expect to pay around $1,500 to $4,000 for a purebred American Hairless Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder. You may need to get on a waiting list or travel further afield to find one.

To start your search for an American Hairless Terrier, try the following sources:

  • The American Hairless Terrier Club of America
  • AKC Marketplace
  • Rat Bones Rescues

Adopt/Buy

If you're set on bringing home an American Hairless Terrier, be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait and a higher price tag. Expect to pay around $1,500 to $4,000 for a purebred AHT.

You can start your search by reaching out to reputable breeders or checking out the following resources. The American Hairless Terrier Club of America is a great place to begin, as they can connect you with certified breeders and provide valuable information about the breed.

If you're open to adopting a terrier-type, there are plenty of wonderful dogs waiting in shelters across the country. Rat Bones Rescues is a great organization to consider, and you can also check out the AKC Marketplace for a range of terrier breeds and mixes.

Owning Essentials

American Pit Bull Terrier Jumping on Green Grass
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Owning an American Hairless Terrier requires careful consideration of their dietary needs, which include a balanced diet rich in protein to support their skin and muscle health.

Their exercise needs are moderate, requiring daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.

Grooming care is also essential, as they need regular skin care to prevent skin conditions and infections.

You'll want to provide a safe and stable environment for your American Hairless Terrier, which includes a suitable living space and regular veterinary check-ups.

Their training needs are also crucial, requiring positive reinforcement and consistent boundaries to develop good behavior.

Notable Instagram

Instagram is a great platform for buying and selling, with over 1 billion active users. Many sellers use Instagram to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers.

Instagram's shopping feature allows users to purchase products directly from the app, with features like product tags and shopping carts. This makes it easy for buyers to find and purchase what they're looking for.

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Instagram's algorithm prioritizes content that performs well, such as posts with high engagement and relevance. This means that sellers who create high-quality content are more likely to reach a wider audience.

Instagram's shopping feature is particularly popular among younger buyers, with 71% of Gen Z users saying they've made a purchase on the platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are American hairless terriers cuddly?

Yes, American Hairless Terriers are affectionate and enjoy physical contact with their owners. They make great lap dogs and love to cuddle.

How much do American hairless terriers cost?

American hairless terriers can range in price from $800 to $1,800, depending on factors such as breeder reputation and bloodline. If you're considering bringing one home, learn more about this unique and lovable breed.

Do American hairless terriers bark a lot?

American Hairless Terriers are known to bark frequently, with a high-pitched bark often made in rapid succession. If you're considering this breed, learning more about their barking habits can help you decide if they're the right fit for you.

Shawna Welch

Writer

Shawna Welch is a versatile and engaging writer with a passion for exploring complex topics in an approachable way. With a keen interest in animal behavior, Shawna has developed a niche expertise in canine behavioral issues, shedding light on common problems and offering actionable advice for pet owners. Her writing style is characterized by clarity, empathy, and a commitment to accuracy, making her a trusted voice in the field.