Pet Health And Care >> Dog Breed >> American Hairless Terrier

American Hairless Terrier - Puppies, Breeders, Puppies For Sale, Temperament and Price

The American Hairless Terrier originated in the United States in the city of Louisiana when a rat terrier gave birth to a hairless puppy.

Although it descended from the Rat Terrier and is identical to it, it is recognized as a separate breed. The American Hairless Terrier is well muscled all over. The hairless skin is usually pink with black or grey markings and ears are erect when they are alert. Interestingly, they are completely hairless except for their whiskers and eyelashes. The puppy is born with scanty hair but sheds it during the next six weeks. They are known for their full length tail, and they are classified according to their height and weight.

The American Hairless Terrier Temperament and Training

They are intelligent, playful and affectionate by nature.

They invariably like the company of people, and children in particular. They are not afraid of strangers or intruders, and being alert, they make ideal watchdogs. They are not attracted to water like most dogs, and are poor swimmers. Early dog training is necessary for instilling obedience, patience and eagerness to comply with the owner’s wishes or commands. This dog would make a suitable companion to those who are allergic to a dog coat a as they have the unique characteristic of being hairless.

It is important for the owner to be consistent in training this dog and to control or curb any negative behavior.

American Hairless Terrier Health Issues

Hairless dogs often have skin problems, sometimes major. However this dog breed is not troubled by this ailment except for occasional and assorted rashes that do crop up from time to time. These dogs are vulnerable to scratches and cuts due to the absence of a protective coat of hair. However, the advantage they enjoy is that they do not have problems of fleas and of shedding that is common in most dogs. Being hairless, they need to be protected from the sun’s harmful rays. You need to apply sunscreen if your dog is exposed to the sun for a lengthy duration. It also has a low tolerance level to cold weather. Do not allow your dog to sleep in a dog house during the winter, and provide it with sufficient clothing to keep it warm and comfortable.

American Hairless Terrier Grooming and Exercise

Frequent baths are a must, at least two or three a week. There is no coat of hair to absorb and retain moisture on the dog’s skin after toweling, and the dog’ skin will soon be very dry. To prevent this, moisturizing lotion should be applied at the first sign of dryness of the dog’s skin. Being energetic and lively by nature they enjoy challenging games. The trainer should use his imagination to modify games and exercises to hold the dog’s enthusiasm at the newness of each game. With the apparent increase in the number of games, his anticipation will increase, and so will his enjoyment. A further benefit will be the stronger bonding between the dog and his trainer, something that only a true dog-lover will fully understand. Outdoor activities like a long walk or a jog is ideal to release their boundless energy. They can adapt and be satisfied indoors provided they get enough exercise through games that involve a lot of activity, failing which they can be taken to a public open space for any outdoor exercise.

Most American Hairless Terrier dog breeders are quite happy to answer questions on their puppies. They will be as concerned as you about the household that a pup will be adopted into. Remember, it is up to both, the puppy buyer and the puppy breeder to ensure that the puppy has been, and will be treated well. Assure yourself of the facts and you will never regret your choice.

Submitted on September 16, 2011