The American Hairless Terrier is a small to moderate size dog.
This breed is roughly 7 inches to 16 inches in height.
They typically weigh between 5 and 16 pounds.
This breed has pink skin with gray, black, golden, or red spots.
Typically, when this breed is born it has soft fuzzy hair. Within six weeks of age however, the pups will have shed this hair.
Afterward, they will be completely hairless but will maintain their eyebrows and whiskers.
Temperament
This small terrier is lively and energetic.
This small dog is known for its intelligence and playfulness. In addition, they are very alert which makes them good little watch dogs.
Due to their loving personalities, the American Hairless Terrier is wonderful with children and can be a good family pet. They are good with other dogs as well.
One unique characteristic of this breed is that they tend to sweat when they are hot or scared.
These small dogs have the tendency to be poor swimmers. Thus, if you live by a lake, pond, or have a pool, your American Hairless Terrier should be closely monitored when outside (keep them away from the ocean).
Living Standards
Due to their energetic personality, this breed is better suited for a home with a small to moderate size yard.
If you live in an apartment, these dogs will be fine as long as you get them plenty of exercise.
Exercise
This breed should be walked on a daily basis (a moderate to long distance is recommended).
Be sure to allow your American Hairless to run in a safe confined area as well.
These small dogs love to play, so be sure provide them with dog toys and tennis balls to chase.
Litter Size
This breed will typically have between 3 and 6 pups per litter.
Health and Life Expectancy
In general, this is a healthy breed.
They typically do not have breeding complications.
In addition, they do not possess any common skin problems that may be found in other hairless dogs.
Due to their lack of hair however, it is necessary to protect them from the sun. You can do so by applying sun screen or a t-shirt (made for dogs). If you live in colder climates, shirts obviously help keep this breed warm (and they look rather cute in these shirts).
Due to the fact that this breed sweats, they may experience acne on their skin. This will go away of course. This breed may also get rashes related to grass allergies (see your vet if this occurs).
This small dog has a life expectancy of roughly 14 to 16 years.
Trainability and Obedience
Due to their intelligence, this small terrier is quite trainable and obedient.
Like all other breeds, it is best to begin training when the dog is a pup.
They are somewhat territorial and can be independent.
Be patient and firm with this breed and you will eventually win them over.
This breed is also agile and can be taught tricks.
Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.
Grooming
Obviously, there is no need for brushing this dog.
Regular bathing, trimming of the nails, and keeping the ears clean is necessary.
History
The American Hairless Terrier is a newer breed.
They were first developed in the United States in 1972. Seemingly, in a litter of mid-sized Rat Terriers, a completely hairless female was born.
The owners, Willie and Edwin Scott of Louisiana named the dog Josephine and eventually bred her.
Unfortunately, none of Josephine’s litters spawn any hairless traits. Then, at the age of 9, she gave birth to two hairless pup of the opposite sex.
The Scotts worked with geneticist and veterinarians in order to produce and stabilize this new breed. Furthermore, this small dogs did not retain any complications found in hairless breeds such as premolars.
Finally, the Scotts named their new breed the "American Hairless Terrier".
