American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is an energetic small terrier bred down from the Rat Terrier — most often truly hairless, though a coated variety exists.

History

It began with a hairless puppy born in a Rat Terrier litter in Louisiana in the 1970s, and the trait was bred on from there. Unlike some hairless breeds, its hairlessness comes from a recessive gene that carries no linked dental or other defects.

Temperament

The breed is known for being lively, clever and affectionate — a curious, playful companion with a terrier's drive and a strong bond to its people. It is alert and sociable.

Care and training

It needs regular exercise and mental work and takes readily to reward-based training. The bare skin needs sun protection in summer, warmth in winter and regular bathing; the coated variety is simpler to keep.

Health

Because it is often suggested for allergy sufferers, it is worth noting that no dog is truly hypoallergenic; known tendencies include skin issues from the bare coat and patellar luxation. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.