American Hairless Terrier — Breed Profile
"Energetic, alert, curious, friendly"
Naked and unashamed
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Allergy sufferers seeking a true terrier breed; active families with time for play and training; owners in warm climates; those wanting a small, playful companion with terrier temperament; first-time dog owners with commitment to training and socialization
Not Ideal For
Owners unable to provide daily exercise and mental stimulation; those seeking a low-maintenance dog; families with very young children unable to supervise; cold climate residents without climate control; owners seeking an independent or aloof dog; those with limited time for training and interaction
Health Considerations
Skin sensitivities, dental issues, patellar luxation, heart murmurs, hypothyroidism
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,200
Breed History
The American Hairless Terrier originated in Louisiana and was developed from naturally occurring hairless mutations in the Rat Terrier breed. The first hairless litter was recorded in 1972. The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 2016. It comes in both hairless and coated varieties, with the hairless variety being highly sought after by allergy sufferers.
Fun Facts
- American Hairless Terriers come in both hairless and coated varieties from the same litter
- Their hairless skin requires regular sunscreen and moisturizing to prevent skin issues
- They are excellent for allergy sufferers but require consistent grooming and skin care
- Despite being hairless, they have high terrier energy and drive
- The breed was recognized by the AKC relatively recently in 2016
Famous American Hairless Terriers
Not widely documented in popular culture