The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world.
This rare breed has been around for over 3,000 years, originating from Mexico and Central America.
The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, and can be either hairless or coated.
The breed's unique appearance has made it a favorite among dog enthusiasts and collectors.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is another hairless dog breed that originated in South America.
This breed has been around for centuries and was highly valued by the Inca Empire for its hunting skills and companionship.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid comes in two varieties: hairless and coated, and is known for its sleek, athletic build.
The Chinese Crested is a popular hairless dog breed that originated in Africa and was later introduced to China.
This breed has been around for over 1,000 years and is known for its friendly, outgoing personality.
The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff, with the hairless variety having a crest of fur on its head.
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Breed Characteristics
These hairless dog breeds are defined by their unique coats, which can be completely hairless or have very little hair on their bodies.
Their coats are characterized by a lack of hair, minimal hair, or tiny hairs that resemble peach fuzz over their skin.
These breeds carry genes that cause their hairlessness, which is a relatively rare trait among dogs.
Most of these breeds are small to medium in size, making them a great fit for many families.
Consider reading: Border Terrier Long Hair
How to Care for
Hairless dogs are unique, but that doesn't mean they require less care. They need a different care routine than their furry counterparts because their bare skin makes them more exposed to the elements.
You'll want to choose a sunscreen that's safe for pets and has a minimum of SPF 30 with protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A spray sunscreen that goes on clear and dries on contact is ideal.
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Clothing can be helpful in hot weather, as well as in cold, for reducing sun exposure that can cause permanent skin damage. I've seen dogs wear cute little sweaters in the winter, and it's adorable.
Hairless breeds require more frequent and ongoing skincare than most other dog breeds. Bathing twice a week with a shampoo that removes excess skin cells and skin oils is recommended.
A moisturizing spray, cream rinse, or conditioner should be used after bathing to keep your dog's skin hydrated. Using a dog shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide in combination with a conditioning product can help prevent irritated dry skin.
Hairless dogs have abnormal hair follicles, which make them particularly prone to recurrent bacterial skin infections. Regular bathing and skincare can help prevent these issues.
You'll want to use a gentle shampoo and avoid using hot water, which can strip your dog's skin of its natural oils. Oatmeal shampoos are a good option, as they can help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Regular bathing and skincare can also help prevent skin conditions such as blackheads and small cysts. By keeping your dog's skin clean and moisturized, you can help prevent these issues from arising.
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Why and How
The reason why we're seeing more pictures of hairless dogs is because of their unique genetic makeup, which in some breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli, is a result of natural selection.
These dogs have been around for thousands of years, with evidence of their existence dating back to ancient Mexico.
Their lack of fur makes them well-suited to hot climates.
In fact, the Xoloitzcuintli's ancestors were bred to hunt and kill vermin in the scorching deserts of Mexico.
Their hairlessness is not just a quirk, but a vital adaptation that helps them conserve water and regulate their body temperature.
This adaptation has allowed them to thrive in environments where other dogs would struggle to survive.
Some breeds, like the Chinese Crested, have been bred to be hairless for companionship and affection rather than for practical reasons.
These dogs have a unique bond with their owners, who often appreciate their affectionate nature.
Their hairlessness also requires regular skin care to prevent skin problems.
This means owners need to be diligent about protecting their skin from the sun, wind, and cold temperatures.
In return, the Chinese Crested provides its owner with a loyal companion that's always eager to play and cuddle.
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Other Hairless Breeds
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless dog, is one of the world's oldest dog breeds, dating back over 3,000 years.
This ancient breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, and two coat varieties: hairless and coated.
The American Hairless Terrier is the only hairless breed native to the U.S., with a history dating back to the 1970s when a hairless puppy was born into a litter of Rat Terriers.
Here are some key characteristics of the breeds mentioned:
These breeds are known for their unique characteristics, such as the Xoloitzcuintli's ancient history and the American Hairless Terrier's intelligence and high energy level.
Khala
The Khala is a rare and fascinating breed that's worth learning more about. They come in two sizes: medio and grande, with heights ranging from 14 to 17 inches and 17 to 20 inches, respectively.
The Khala's personality is loyal and stubborn, making early training a must to prevent any behavioral issues. They're also highly energetic and require plenty of outdoor time to stay happy.
One of the unique characteristics of the Khala is their appearance, with a tuft of long, flowing hair on their head giving them a rock star look. They're a member of the AKC non-sporting group and are known for being excellent family pets.
Here's a brief summary of the Khala's characteristics:
Overall, the Khala is a loving and energetic breed that requires early training and plenty of exercise to thrive. If you're looking for a loyal companion that's a bit unconventional, the Khala might be the perfect fit for you.
American Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a unique breed that's native to the United States. They originated in the 1970s from a hairless puppy born into a litter of Rat Terriers.
This breed is known for being completely hairless, with some individuals having eyebrows and whiskers. They're intelligent, high-energy, and playful, making them a great companion for active families.
The American Hairless Terrier is a small dog, typically standing between 12-16 inches tall and weighing between 12-28 pounds. They have a lifespan of 14-16 years.
Intriguing read: American Hairless Terrier Breeder
One of the distinctive features of the American Hairless Terrier is their soft skin, which is different from other hairless breeds. They also have normal teeth, which is a rare trait among hairless dogs.
These dogs are tough, feisty, clever, and playful, making them a great fit for families who love to hunt and dig. They're also fans of cuddles and affection.
Here are some key characteristics of the American Hairless Terrier:
- Height: 12-16 inches
- Weight: 12-28 pounds
- Personality: affectionate, curious
- Activity Level: low to moderate
- Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Not Recognized by AKC
These hairless dog breeds aren't recognized by the AKC, which means their stats and histories are a bit fuzzy. The AKC has meticulous records of recognized breeds, but these ones don't have a dedicated group of responsible breeders to keep track of their development.
We can't be 100 percent sure about the stats for each of these breeds, but we do know they're dogs and they're hairless, and that's enough to adore them.
Their lack of recognition by the AKC makes it hard to know what's true about their origins and characteristics.
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Sources
- Jonangi dog breed (nativebreed.org)
- Chinese Crested (akc.org)
- clothing (chewy.com)
- dog-friendly sunscreen (chewy.com)
- American Hairless Terrier Club of America (AHTCA) (ahtca.info)
- 9 Hairless Dog Breeds That Are Bald and Beautiful (rd.com)
- American hairless terrier (akc.org)
- Peruvian Inca Orchid (akc.org)
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- Tufts Your Dog (tuftsyourdog.com)
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