American Hairless Terrier Breed Profile: Essential Facts
These are purebred Rat Terriers without coats.
American Hairless Terrier
- AKC Group: Terrier
- Weight: 12–16 lbs.
- Height: 12–16 in.
- Life Span: 14–16 years
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Key Characteristics
American Hairless Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs who are muscular and active.
This is the first hairless breed to have originated in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Because of their hairless coats, they are not suitable for hunting or ratting (although there is also a coated version).
American Hairless Terriers have wedge-shaped heads with round, medium-sized eyes.
The eye color can vary with the skin color. It is commonly a dark brown, amber or hazel, but can also be blue or gray.
The feet are oval and compact with slightly longer toes in the middle. The dogs' V-shaped ears may stand erect or be tipped or buttoned. The tail is thick at the base and tapers to the end.
Where They Came From
In 1972, a hairless puppy was born in a litter of Rat Terriers in Louisiana. The breeder gave the hairless puppy to friends Willie and Edwin Scott, who named her Josephine.
They adored her and wanted to create more like her, so they began a breeding program after consulting several veterinary professionals. They formed Trout Creek Kennel and kept meticulous records throughout their breeding program.
The American Hairless Terrier Club of America Inc. was formed in 2009 by the Scotts and several other fanciers.
The AKC added the breed to its Foundation Stock Service in 2011, and the breed was moved to the Miscellaneous Class in January 2014. Two years later, the breed was fully recognized and moved to the Terrier Group.
How Friendly Are They?
American Hairless Terriers are playful, intelligent, inquisitive and feisty, as are most terriers.
They are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their family members, although they can be territorial. They are good-natured with strangers and not too wary, and they make excellent watch dogs.
They may chase after small animals, so keep your American Hairless Terrier in a secure area or on a leash when outdoors.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
MEDIUM: You'll need to take your American Hairless Terrier for daily walks and play so they can expel some energy.
These dogs really like to dig, so create a designated area in your yard to allow them to fulfill this instinct. They are good for apartment life because of their small size and activity indoors.
Grooming Needs
LOW: Allergy sufferers take note: American Hairless Terriers don't shed and create minimal dander from skin cell shedding occasionally.
However, according to the AKC's The New Complete Dog Book, "The coated variety still sheds and requires coat care similar to any other coated breed."
Bathe your terrier once per week or as needed. Keep up with regular maintenance, such as cutting the nails and cleaning the ears and teeth.
Health Problems
MEDIUM: This breed is susceptible to allergies and sunburn. Additionally, the breed club has compiled a list of possible health problems:
Malocclusions Demodect mange — juvenile Demodect mange — generalized Legg-Calvé-Perthes Patellar luxation Liver shunt Deafness Epilepsy Hip dysplasia Diabetes Cleft palate Immune mediated hemolytic anemia Seizures — no known source Blue dog disease Club foot Frontal leg diameter abnormality Allergies Von Willebrand’s disease Heart murmur Cushing's disease Thyroid problems Hemophelia A Primary lens luxation Microvascular dysplasia
Watch these American Hairless Terrier puppies enjoy some fresh air and bounce around the backyard:
Where to Adopt One
American Hairless Terriers are difficult to find. If you want a purebred one, check with rescues and shelters before contacting a breeder.
If you go through a breeder, ask for proof that the dog's breeding parents are health-tested. Ask to see the results — don't just take their word for it.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, American Hairless Terriers make great pets. They are intelligent, affectionate, and energetic, making them excellent companions for active families or individuals.
Yes, they are considered hypoallergenic since they have no fur to shed, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. However, they still produce dander, so sensitivities may vary.
Yes, they are good with children, especially when socialized early. They are playful and affectionate but should be supervised with very young kids to prevent accidental injury.
An American Hairless Terrier puppy typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on the breeder, location, and pedigree. Ongoing costs include skin care, vet visits, and proper nutrition.
Additional Resources
- American Kennel Club's American Hairless Terrier Page
- American Hairless Terrier Club of America, Inc.
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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