American Hairless Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The American Hairless Terrier began with a single hairless puppy born in a Rat Terrier litter in Louisiana in 1972. Today, the breed is a rare, lively terrier that comes in hairless and coated varieties, with a playful and curious nature.

Origins and appearance

The founding puppy, Josephine, was bred to produce more hairless dogs, which carried a recessive gene. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2016. American Hairless Terriers are small and athletic, with a lean, muscular build, large erect ears and a long muzzle. Hairless dogs have smooth skin in many colors and patterns, while coated dogs have a short, smooth coat.

Temperament

They are bright, energetic and affectionate. They bond with their family and love to be involved. They are playful, curious and often clownish. They retain terrier drive, including chasing and digging. They are usually good with children and other dogs when socialized. Many do not like being alone for long.

Exercise

They need around an hour of daily exercise, with walks, play and training. They enjoy agility, lure coursing and earthdog games. Mental games matter too. Protect hairless dogs from sun and cold during outings.

Training

They are intelligent and quick to learn, and generally eager to please. Use positive methods and short sessions. Early socialization builds confidence. House training is usually manageable. Teach a reliable recall in secure areas. See recall training guide.

Coat and skin care

Hairless dogs need skin care: bathing every one to two weeks with a gentle shampoo, moisturizer if the skin is dry and dog-safe sunscreen. They can get acne and sunburn. Coated dogs have a short coat requiring a weekly brush. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails and brush teeth. Hairless dogs often have missing or poorly formed teeth.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Sunburn and skin cancer risk. See dog sunburn and skin cancer
• Skin problems, including acne and dryness
• Dental abnormalities in hairless dogs
• Luxating patella
• Allergies
• Cold sensitivity

Living with an American Hairless Terrier

They suit houses and apartments with exercise. They need a warm indoor home and a sweater in cold weather. They are not outdoor dogs.

Behavior and daily management

A hairless terrier needs a routine of exercise, training and company. Provide warm bedding, sun protection and chew toys. Teach calm greetings, and supervise around small pets. They enjoy being included in family life.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are playful and curious. Begin socialization, skin care and training. Protect from sun and cold. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for skin products, sweaters, dental care and vet care. Be prepared for a waiting list. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They need coats in winter and sunscreen in summer. They travel well and enjoy company, but should not be left in cars.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include forgetting sunscreen, leaving the dog outdoors in the cold and underexercising.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about dental health, skin issues, patella checks and the parents' temperaments. Ask how hairless and coated puppies are handled.

Is it the right breed for you?

An American Hairless Terrier suits active owners who want a lively, low-shedding small dog and can manage skin care. It may not suit those who want a calm dog. For a related breed, see the Rat Terrier.

The takeaway

American Hairless Terriers are lively, rare and skin-sensitive, and they need warmth, sun care and exercise.