
Other Names:
AHT
Price Range:
$800 – $1,800
Size:
Small
Dog Group:
Terrier group
Coat Length:
Short
Energy:
High
Kid Friendly:
High
Life Expectancy:
14-16 years
American Hairless Terrier available in these colours:
American Hairless Terriers come in a variety of colours, including Pink & Grey, Pink & Gold, Pink & Black and Pink & Red. Any colour or combination of colours is allowed with the exception of albino or merle.
Characteristics & Tendencies:
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
APARTMENT FRIENDLY
HYPOALLERGENIC
About the American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier, also known as the AHT, is the only hairless breed native to the United States. The breed was originally descended from the Rat Terrier, and therefore have great similarities in appearance. The Rat Terrier was originally bred in the early 1800s in England to exterminate rats that carried disease and raided food supplies. AHTs are small-sized, smoothly-muscled and come in two varieties: coated and hairless. This breed sheds very minimally, making them great for owners with allergies. Due to their sensitive skin, the AHT is susceptible to sunburn. This breed also does not get fleas, but do shed skin cells.
Like all terriers, the American Hairless Terrier loves playing, digging and chasing small game. They make good watch dogs, and are intelligent and alert. AHTs can have a stubborn streak, and do best with reward-based training methods while being trained. This breed can often be territorial at times as well, so will require a human who can be their true pack leader to curb any unwanted behaviours. The AHT requires about 30 minutes of exercise a day, and will do okay in apartment as long as they receive adequate exercise. Brief daily sessons in a fenced-in yards or regular walks will usually be sufficient. AHTs also require attention and validation, and will not do well if they are left alone for extended periods of time.
AHTs are graceful and elegant, and also strong and athletic. This smart, inquisitive dog makes an excellent companion for anyone!
Top health issues
What are the most common health issues for American Hairless Terriers?
- Hip Dysplasia
- Legg-Perthes Disease
- Epilepsy
- Blue Dog Disease
IN DETAIL
Common American Hairless Terriers diseases & conditions, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment in detail:
Due to their active lifestyles, hip dysplasia is not a rare occurrence in American Hairless Terrier. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and is the primary cause of painful hip osteoarthritis in dogs. It generally occurs in large or giant breed dogs, however can also occur in smaller breeds as well. It is usually affected by factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, improper weight and nutrition. Symptoms of hip dysplasia may show in dogs when they are as young as four months of age, whilst for others the disease may develop in conjunction with osteoarthritis as they age. These symptoms may include decreased activity, difficulty or reluctance rising, jumping or running, lameness in the hind end, loss of thigh muscle mass, pain and stiffness.
This involves the hip joint. If your dog has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur (the large rear leg bone) is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. The first symptoms, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, usually occur when puppies are four to six months old. Surgery can correct the condition, usually resulting in a pain-free puppy.
Epilepsy describes repeated episodes of seizures, which are one of the most frequently reported neurological conditions in dogs. It is a chronic disorder affecting dogs, and may run in some families. Dog seizures may be caused by a range of factors, such as trauma, exposure to toxins, issues with the dog’s blood or organs and genetic abnormalities. Generally, the younger the dog is, the more severe the epilepsy will be. Most seizures happen when the dog is resting or sleeping, usually at night or in the early morning. Breeds that are prone include Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs. Whilst epilepsy cannot be cured, it can usually be controlled using anticonvulsant drugs. Aside from medication, other management methods include maintaining a seizure log recording the date, time, length and severity of seizures with videotapes to share with your veterinarian, blood work recommended by your veterinarian, and putting a medical alert tag on your pet’s collar in case he gets lost and needs medication.
Blue dog disease, also known as colour dilution alopecia (CDA) is a genetically inherited condition that causes complete and permanent hair loss, resulting in a patchy appearance. It is common in dogs with a blue or fawn dilute hair colour, including Chow Chows, Whippets, Chihuahuas, German Shepherds and Dachshunds. Symptoms include broken hairs, recurring bacterial infections, hair loss and broken hairs. Whilst there is no effective treatment for this disorder, some palliative measures may be taken during the early stages of the disease. Some treatments may include topical ointments, moisturising rinses, antibiotics and a high dose of essential fatty acids and vitamin A.
Feeding
How much does an American Hairless Terriers eat?
The recommended amount to feed an AHT is 1.5 to 2.5 cups of food a day. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and adjustments will be required as their needs change with age. As this breed as a low to average risk to obesity, ensure that he is fed high quality dry dog food whilst receiving adequate exercise to lead an active life. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
Shedding
How often does the fur fall off?
AHTs shed very little to minimal amounts, and do not get fleas. However, their coats do shed skin cells about every 20 days, which does produce some dander. This breed commonly does not have a coat, which makes their skin very exposed and additional care should be taken to protect it.
Grooming
Are American Hairless Terrierss high maintenance?
The American Hairless Terrier actually comes in two varieties: coated and hairless. For either type, grooming needs are minimal. For the hairless variety, there is little maintenance involved other than keeping the ears clean and making sure the dog is protected from sunburn. The variety with a short, shiny coat is almost as carefree.
Though the hairlessness of the American Hairless Terrier means brushing isn’t necessary, the skin is prone to sunburn. AHTs need an application of veterinarian-recommended sunscreen before going outside. Baths, with a gentle shampoo to prevent skin irritation, are necessary occasionally, and more often after the application of sunscreen. Trimming nails regularly will help prevent painful splitting, cracking, or breaking a nail. Your American Hairless Terrier may be sensitive about having his paws touched, so get him used to it early.
Exercise
How much exercise does an American Hairless Terriers need?
Exercise for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day is necessary, but American Hairless Terriers are happiest and better behaved with 45 minutes or more each day. Even with enough exercise, the breed possesses an excess of energy and will expect playtime and will likely run laps indoors. Without enough exercise, AHTs may become destructive, bark excessively, or become hyperactive. Whilst they enjoy being active, they equally enjoy curling up on the couch next to their humans, or being a lap dog. This breed is fairly active indoors, but will do best with a small to medium sized yard due to their high tendency to dig. AHTs generally enjoy challenging games and outdoor romps.
Vet Visits
How often should an American Hairless Terriers visit the vet?
AHTs are a generally a healthy breed, the only concern would be the increased protection they need for their skin. As they are hairless, these dogs may need to be dressed in protective clothing when left to play outdoors, or have sunscreen applied. In colder climates, they may require a sweater or coat.
Veterinary care is essential to a dog’s health and wellbeing, however the frequency of treatment and checkups will depend on the dog. Scheduled six-monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure your American Hairless Terrier is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. In these annual visits, your vet will complete a physical examination, take your dog’s temperature and check his heartbeat, among other things. Routine maintenance for your dog gives you a chance to track your dog’s growth and development and discuss any concerns with your vet, and forms a key part of preventative care.
Family Suitability
Are American Hairless Terrierss kid-friendly and sociable with humans?
The American Hairless Terrier can get along with children that are respectful of the dog’s personal space. Their playful nature makes them a great playmate for children. Be careful around AHT puppies, as their small size means they are likely to be accidentally injured by a well-meaning but overly enthusiastic or carelesss child. Caution should be taken around AHTs with babies and toddlers, and their interactions should be supervised at all times.
Trainability
Are American Hairless Terriers difficult to train?
Despite the AHT’s fiesty and spunky temperament, they are considered one of the easiest terriers to train. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them great candidates for agility and obedience training. They enjoy spending time with their owners, and fun activities can keep them engaged. This breed can be stubborn however and possess a mischievous streak, so will require a firm trainer who will not allow them to become dominant. As a small dog, they have a tendency to lack in human leadership, so ensure that you are this dog’s true pack leader in order to curb any negative behaviours. The AHT responds well to reward-based training methods and calm, assertive leadership.
Compatibility with other pets
Do American Hairless Terriers get along with other dogs or cats?
Due to their strong prey drive, caution is advised around smaller pets such as hamsters or cats as AHTs have a tendency to chase. AHTs are often good with other dogs if they are introduced properly, however it is normal to expect battles over alpha dog status until the household balance is figured out. American Hairless Terriers are fairly territorial.
Need for company
How often do they need to be around humans?
American Hairless Terriers are intelligent and curious dogs which need attention and validation. They are eager to please, and are therefore suited to bigger families or active urban dwellers. Even though they are an energetic breed, AHTs love to cuddle equally as much! As a smaller dog, they may stick to their “main” human, but still won’t ignore the rest of the family. This breed is regarded more affectionate compared to their other terrier counterparts.
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