American Hairless Terrier — breed guide
A hairless terrier that appeared in a single Rat Terrier litter in 1972. The only genuinely low-allergen terrier — and the only one that needs sun cream and a coat.
At a glance
- Group
- terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5–7 kg (11–15 lb)
- Life span
- 14–16 years
- Coat
- Hairless, or a coated variety; hairless skin needs sunscreen
Living with a American Hairless Terrier
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Almost no grooming.
- Barely sheds.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Usually fine with a familiar dog; strange dogs need managing.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Needs a coat in the cold.
Temperament
Lively · Inquisitive · Affectionate · Alert
Health to watch
- Sunburn and skin cancer
- Patellar luxation
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Allergies
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a American Hairless Terrier good with kids?
Generally yes. American Hairless Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a American Hairless Terrier good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a American Hairless Terrier need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a American Hairless Terrier handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a American Hairless Terrier's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.