American Hairless Terrier.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.