16 things to know before getting an American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier (AHT) is a purebred and unique dog recognized for its lack of hair. It was originally from Louisiana in 1972 and was often mistaken as Rat Terriers. The birth of the American Hairless Terrier, the only hairless dog breed native to the United States, was a happy coincidence. These days, the breed is widely recognized as an energetic companion dog ideally suited for any family. Here are the things you need to know before taking this bundle of joy home!

They are good with people with allergies.

Though not a completely hypoallergenic dog, the American hairless terrier can be a good option for people with allergies. Because they don't have any body hair save for their eyebrows and whiskers, they don't lose much hair.

However, some American Hairless Terrier breeds are not hairless. These puppies are distinguished by their magnificent, short, and fine fur. They are known as Coated AHTs.

The American Hairless Terrier makes a great companion dog.

Even though it comes from a line of skilled hunters, the American Hairless Terrier is poorly adapted to the hunting task because it needs sunscreen if left out in the sun for an extended period and has no fur to protect it from branches and vegetation.

Though it cannot actively hunt, the American Hairless Terrier is a friendly, agile, and playful pet that makes an excellent everyday companion. They're lovely pets for virtually any kind of family.

Unlike their ratting ancestors, they were bred to be companion dogs, but they also retained the terrier's traditional predatory instinct. They still possess many terrier ways, like being lively and rambunctious.

They are one of the most affectionate terriers.

There is a widespread consensus that this particular terrier is among the most friendly terrier. Like most terriers, American Hairless Terriers are lively, bright, curious, and independent, but they are also loyal to their families and take great pleasure in spending time with them.

However, their possessiveness can sometimes make them difficult to live with. If you allow them to pick favorites, they will grow overly devoted to one person in the family. While this may not lead to outright hostility, it does increase the risk that they may stop listening to everybody save their preferred authority figure.

They are excellent with kids in general, but they tend to do well with older kids.

The American Hairless Terrier is a rare breed of terrier that gets along well with older and even younger children, provided they are taught to respect the dog's space.

Babies and toddlers shouldn't play with AHT without supervision. American Hairless Terriers might get used to children when socialized early, and that relationship should be strengthened over time.

They are excellent with dogs that were socialized with them from an early age.

American Hairless Terriers can get along well with other dogs if introduced appropriately. However, until the pack order is established, there may be some fights. While they might theoretically coexist with felines, they would probably just pursue them for fun.

If you also have other pets, such as rodents and hamsters, introducing them to these dogs is probably not a good idea. While they are no longer needed for hunting, they still have a strong prey drive and will likely terrify smaller pets whenever they get the chance.

Although American Hairless Terriers like to get along well with other canine companions, you shouldn't simply pair them up. Instead, gradually introduce them to each other in a setting that neither will find threatening.

The American Hairless Terrier makes an excellent watchdog, but they are too small to be a guard dog.

The American Hairless Terrier is a vigilant and observant breed that will bark at any sound, as is typical of the Terrier breed. Wiggling and licking are common responses when new people are around, but because of their diminutive stature and friendliness, they are not effective as guard dogs.

They have high energy levels and need daily exercise.

The American Hairless Terrier's high energy levels necessitate regular exercise and attention to curb destructive tendencies and excessive barking. American Hairless Terriers need a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity daily, but the more time they get, the better.

The breed has plenty of energy, so even when it gets plenty of exercise, it will still want to play and may even perform laps around the house. If these physical requirements are not met, AHTs can become restless, bark excessively, and act hyperactive.

These pups love to dig.

The American Hairless Terrier also has a penchant for digging holes. Providing a designated digging area for these dogs may reduce the likelihood of your dog digging in inappropriate places.

If you're going to take care of one of these dogs, you should have time to take it for a walk or let it run around in the yard every day to minimize digging tendencies. In addition, they are social creatures who become agitated when left alone for too long.

Last but not least, allowing them free access to the yard will likely result in the discovery of holes, and you'll need to keep a close eye on them to ensure they don't dig under the fence.

The American Hairless Terrier has a strong prey drive, and they love to wonder.

Due to their high prey drive and tendency to wander, AHTs are best taken on adventures. Due to their ancestry as ratting dogs, American Hairless Terriers are born hunters. Still, they aren't suitable as a hunting companion because of their thin coat and sensitive skin, but they love nose work and other canine sports that involve chasing.

Due to their high prey drive and tendency to run away, they do best in gated environments. Because of their terrier nature that loves to explore, AHTs shouldn't be left outside unattended or without a leash.

They are sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Since it has no hair, it quickly gets sunburned, and the cold bothers it. They may need sunscreen to protect their skin from sunburn and a jacket in cold weather to keep them warm.

One thing that makes American Hairless dogs unique is that you can tell how they're feeling by looking at their fur. When this breed gets too heated or is nervous, it sweats chilly drops of water. Extra affection should be given to this dog when it is sweating.

The American Hairless Terrier can thrive well in most living situations.

An American Hairless Terrier is a fantastic pet for active people who can give the dog plenty of outside time and regular exercise. They need both inside and outside activity to minimize destructive habits and nuisance barking, regardless of the size of the home.

American Hairless Terriers are remarkably versatile despite their high energy and activity levels. They'll adapt well to life in an apartment or a house, provided their owners commit to their exercise requirements.

They need high-quality dog food split between two meals a day.

An American Hairless Terrier should eat between half a cup and a cup of high-quality dry dog food every day, divided between breakfast and dinner two meals.

Dogs of all ages need diets that are age-appropriate and also according to their weight and activity level. Make sure they won't get overweight, and always ensure that water is available for them to drink all day.

Find out which everyday human meals can be fed to your dog and which should be avoided. You should consult your veterinarian if you are worried about your dog's nutrition or weight.

They are prone to separation anxiety.

An American Hairless Terrier may handle being left alone for four to six hours each day. Still, without proper care and exercise, the dog could develop separation anxiety and resort to destructive behavior.

They can benefit from crate training, which protects your dog and your things when you're not around. Certain Hairless Terriers may develop an annoying habit of constantly barking when left alone.

These canines are pretty easy to maintain and groom.

Although an American Hairless Terrier doesn't require regular brushing because it lacks hair, its hairless skin is easily damaged by the sun. Before venturing outdoors, AHTs should be coated in sunscreen, as a veterinarian prescribes. After going out, a bath is in order, with a mild shampoo to prevent skin irritation.

The rest is primary care. Nail splitting, cracking, and breaking can be painful, but they can all be avoided with regular trimming. It would help if your American Hairless Terrier's ears were checked regularly and kept out of the sun. Toothbrushing should be done twice a week to prevent dental problems.

The American Hairless Terrier is quite susceptible to many health issues.

While American Hairless Terriers are typically healthy, they can be susceptible to several health issues, including but not limited to liver problems, heart murmurs, Cushing diseases, diabetes, epilepsy, hip and elbow dysplasia, deafness, thyroid issues, and skin conditions.

Not all medical problems have an immediate risk of death, but the cost of treating them can go up quickly. The risk of many of these diseases can be reduced by adopting a dog from a reputable breeder and then giving the dog a healthy, well-balanced diet and lots of exercise.

They are trainable but can be a bit stubborn.

Dogs of the American Hairless Terrier breed can be trained to obey simple commands with relative ease, although because of their independent spirit, they may not consistently demonstrate their understanding.

This breed responds well to positive reinforcement that is given gently. The American Hairless Terrier breed is very trainable and makes excellent candidates for complex stunts and obedience. Training should be kept interesting and fun.

They can sometimes be territorial.

Inheriting terrier traits from their ancestors, American Hairless Terriers require a powerful owner to avoid being overly possessive. Like many toy breeds, the American Hairless Terrier can become violent if it feels its space is being invaded.

This breed of dog has a natural tendency to be guarded towards its human companions and physical domain. They often chase away other small animals from the territory they have staked.

Overall, these dogs are not just excellent family pets, and they can also be very loyal friends. They are a unique breed known for their high energy and versatility. They are hairless but quite stunning, and despite their baldness, these canines are fantastic. Nonetheless, they aren't for everyone's tastes. Potentially not the best choice for inexperienced pet owners because of their high activity levels and independent spirit. However, if you can keep up with them, you will soon be the proud owner of a tiny hairless pup who will bring joy and excitement into your life.