American Hairless Terrier
Description
The American Hairless Terrier is a compact breed, weighing between 12 and 16 pounds, known for its unique hairless coat that comes in many colors and patterns, including apricot, brindle, and lilac dilute. Originating in the 1970s from a hairless puppy named Josephine, this breed stands out with its smooth skin and alert expression. They adapt well to family life and tend to be more sociable than many other terriers, often showing curiosity and friendliness toward strangers and other dogs. Their hairless nature requires special care, especially regarding sun exposure and temperature changes. Despite their terrier roots, they have a moderate activity level and low tendency to bark, making them suitable for various living environments. These dogs thrive on interaction and mental stimulation but don’t demand excessive exercise. Their temperament can vary, so spending time with the individual dog helps understand their personality better.
Grooming
The American Hairless Terrier’s hairless coat means minimal shedding, but skin care is essential to keep them comfortable and healthy. Weekly gentle baths are necessary to remove dirt and oils, followed by moisturizing to prevent dryness and irritation. Daily application of dog-safe sunscreen is crucial when they spend time outdoors, especially during sunny months, to avoid sunburn. Pro tidy grooming involves checking for skin issues and trimming nails regularly. Bullet list: - Weekly gentle bath with mild shampoo - Moisturize skin after bathing - Daily sunscreen application for outdoor exposure - Regular nail trimming - Monitor skin for dryness or irritation Pro tip: Use a hypoallergenic moisturizer designed for dogs to keep their skin supple and reduce flaking. Avoid human lotions, which can cause reactions.
Learn the Hairless routine:
→ Complete Hairless Grooming Guide
Walking
American Hairless Terriers require about 35 minutes of walking daily, ideally in a single session to match their moderate activity needs. This breed enjoys exploring but can tire faster than larger terriers, so pacing the walk is important. A consistent routine helps them feel secure and mentally engaged. They benefit from varied routes and opportunities to sniff and investigate, which satisfies their curiosity. Example routine: - 10-minute warm-up walk around the block - 20-minute brisk walk in a park or open area - 5-minute cool-down stroll back home Bottom line: One focused daily walk of 35 minutes keeps this breed physically and mentally balanced.
Boarding
When boarding an American Hairless Terrier, provide a crate sized between 30 and 36 inches to ensure comfort and security. Their playful but moderate energy level means they enjoy two active play sessions daily, combined with scent or brain games to stimulate their minds. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable schedule to reduce stress. These dogs appreciate gentle handling and consistent routines, which help them adjust quickly. Enrichment should include interactive toys and scent-based puzzles to keep boredom at bay. Because of their sensitive skin, ensure the boarding environment is free from rough surfaces or materials that could cause irritation. Staff should monitor for signs of sun exposure if outdoor time is provided. Bottom line: A calm, structured environment with mental and physical activities suits the American Hairless Terrier best during boarding.