American Hairless Terrier

Overview

Overview of American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier (AHT), the only hairless breed founded in the United States, is a naturally occurring offshoot of the Rat Terrier, affectionately known as 'feists' (because of their feisty ratting prowess)! People say that President Theodore Roosevelt adored his feist, Skip, so much that he even coined the name Rat Terrier. The breed origins begin with married couple, Edwin and Willie Scott bringing home a hairless rat terrier they named Josephine, who melted their hearts with her charming personality and spotted skin so they decided to start a new hairless dog breed in America. After many years of selective breeding, the American Hairless Terrier was finally born! Due to the gene being recessive for the hairlessness in these pooches, it took quite some time to produce two parents that could consistently sire hairless puppies. American Hairless Terriers’ unique genetic makeup means that many of these hairless pups are born with all their teeth (missing teeth can sometimes be an issue for hairless dog breeds.) These hairless ratters come in all colors and patterns except for merle or albino.

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for American Hairless Terrier

Atopic Dermatitis:

American Hairless Terriers can inherit atopic dermatitis, which is common among terriers. The most common symptom is itchiness in and around the face, paws and belly. Complications to atopy, in dogs, can lead to secondary bacterial and fungal infections, darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) and ear infections.

Recommendations for Atopic Dermatitis in American Hairless Terrier Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for American Hairless Terrier

Ear Infections:

The American Hairless Terrier can be prone to developing secondary ear infections from atopic dermatitis.

Recommendations for Ear Infections in American Hairless Terrier Dogs:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for American Hairless Terrier

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease:

Is an inherited condition where the femoral head deteriorates due to a loss of blood supply to the femoral bone cells, which can lead to arthritis.

Recommendations for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease in American Hairless Terrier Dogs:

Personality

Like most terriers, the American Hairless Terrier can be quite protective and vocal about it! Pet parents should protect their American Hairless Terrier’s sensitive skin by limiting sun exposure, in hotter months, and providing a light sweater during the winter. They are intelligent, trainable pups who enjoy activities like obedience & agility. Still, a fairly rare breed, if you have an American Hairless Terrier dog, you're sure to turn heads!