American Hairless Terrier

by Amy Tokic

Published: March 5th, 2014

About American Hairless Terrier

Weight

5-25 lb

Lifespan

14-16 years

Group

Miscellaneous Class

Best Suited For

Families with children, active singles and seniors, houses with yards

Temperament

Lively, inquisitive, alert, intelligent

Comparable Breeds

Xoloitzcuintli, Rat Terrier

Height

7-18 inches

American Hairless Terrier Basics

Although a fairly new breed, the American Hairless Terrier has gathered quite the fan club in its few decades of existence. Identical in appearance to the Rat Terrier, barring its obvious lack of hair, the American Hairless Terrier, or AHT, is a fairly small dog with strong shoulders, a well-muscled neck and powerful legs. And although it looks more like a toy breed, it is actually a highly intelligent working breed.

American Hairless Terriers possess traits that are characteristic of all terriers: They are energetic, intelligent, extremely loving and make excellent companions for a wide array of dog owners. They also make excellent pets for animal lovers that suffer from various allergies.

Although a fairly new breed, the American Hairless Terrier has gathered quite the fan club in its few decades of existence.

Origin

The story of the American Hairless Terrier began in 1972 when a single hairless puppy was born in a Rat Terrier litter owned by Edwin and Willie Scott. This puppy, which was named Josephine, went on to become the mother of the entire breed. Once Josephine reached maturity she was bred to a Rat Terrier and produced one female hairless pup. However, Josephine failed to produce any pups with the hairless trait in her next few litters. In her 9th litter, she rewarded the Scott’s perseverance by producing two hairless pups, one of each sex. These two puppies became the foundation on which the American Hairless Terrier was developed as a breed.

Pedigree

The American Hairless Terrier is a direct descendant of the Rat Terrier, which is in turn a development from a breed of European terrier called Feists, which were crossed with Beagles, Greyhounds and Miniature Pinschers.

Food/Diet

These dogs are highly energetic and should be fed on high-quality dry food.

Like Rat Terriers, AHTs are highly intelligent and are also eager to please.

Training

Like Rat Terriers, AHTs are highly intelligent and are also eager to please. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement based training methods. They can, however, turn willful and stubborn if an owner fails to demonstrate calm and assertive leadership.

Weight

American Hairless Terriers can weigh anywhere between 5 to 25 pounds.

Temperament and Behavior

Like most terriers, American Hairless Terriers are highly intelligent, alert and playful. They also are a very loving breed of dog and get along excellently with children. They also possess the determination and fearlessness of terriers and make excellent guard dogs.

Like all terriers, they love playing, digging and chasing small game and enjoy competing in agility trials. It is important that owners keep these tendencies in mind when purchasing a pet because catering to a terrier’s needs can sometimes be an overwhelming task for a mild or laidback pet owner.

Common Health Problems

Because the gene associated with the American Hairless Terrier’s lack of hair is recessive, they do not suffer from absent premolars or other breeding complications that plague other hairless dog breeds. They can however suffer from occasional cuts and bruises resulting from vigorous play.

Life Expectancy

American Hairless Terriers have fairly long life spans and can live for 14 to 16 years.

Exercise Requirements

American Hairless Terriers are extremely strong and athletic and require a significant amount of exercise. Owners should not purchase these dogs if they cannot take them on a long walk every day. When deprived of an outlet for their excess energy, these dogs can turn destructive and develop other behavioral problems.

Like most terriers, American Hairless Terriers are highly intelligent, alert and playful.

AKC

The AKC has included the American Hairless Terrier in its Foundation Stock Series and allows the breed to compete in performance events and open shows.

The AKC also has this to say about the American Hairless Terrier: “The breeding of the American Hairless Terriers (AHT) began in earnest in the early 1970’s when a hairless puppy was born into a litter of mid-size Rat Terriers. This was not the first hairless puppy born to these parents, but it was the first to be given to a couple in Louisiana, Edwin and Willie Scott, who immediately fell in love with this female puppy and named her Josephine. Josephine became the foundation for the American Hairless Terrier breed.

The AHT is well known for its propensity for fewer allergic reactions than other breeds, allowing them into homes once denied. This combined with their intelligence and ease of care make them perfect companions while maintaining the drive to excel in performance events.”

Coat

Since they lack a coat, owners should take care to protect their American Hairless Terrier’s skin by using a sunscreen. They may also need a light sweater to keep warm during colder months.

Puppies

It is important that American Hairless Terrier puppies be socialized with humans and other animals at an early age. They can sometimes be reserved with strangers and early socialization is important to ensure that they lead a balanced life later on.

Photo credit: Nyaah/Wikimedia; Rpping/Wikimedia; John Morton/Flickr

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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There has been a recent surge in dog lovers and prospective dog parents interested in hypoallergenic pups. The allure of a hypoallergenic dog is undeniable for those who may feel limited due to allergies. But does the perfect allergy-free pet truly exist?While there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, certain breeds are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. This could open the door for pet allergy sufferers to add a furry companion to the family. This guide will explore the reality of hypoallergenic dogs and help you choose the dog that best suits the needs and sensitivities of your family.What is a “Hypoallergenic Dog?”Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a hypoallergenic dog? Contrary to popular belief, the term hypoallergenic, when applied to a product or item, does not mean that it absolutely cannot cause an allergic reaction. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “hypoallergenic” is defined as “having little likelihood of causing an allergic response.”These are dog breeds that are less likely to cause problems for allergy sufferers due to various physical characteristics. For example, the breed may be low shedding, have shorter coats (or be considered hairless), or the coat type naturally catches and traps allergens like loose hair and dander, controlling its spread around your home.While these qualities make it more likely that these dogs could co-exist peacefully with an allergic family member, it is important to note that they are not 100% free from allergens.Which Dogs are Considered to be HypoallergenicDeciding which dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic is a bit of a grey area. Some breeds will make the list when speaking with one expert, and not the list shared by the next. This can make it difficult to determine if a dog you are considering will be a good fit for your home.Even if the dog breed you are considering is well-known for their hypoallergenic coats, I recommend having a conversation with the breeder, the shelter/rescue you are adopting from, and your doctor (or allergist) to prepare yourself to take precautions and minimize any risk. Individual dogs may have unique grooming needs or considerations even within a breed.Here is a list of breeds commonly referred to as hypoallergenic: Affenpinscher Afghan Hound American Hairless TerrierBarbado da Terceira Barbet Bedlington Terrier Bichon Frise Bolognese Chinese Crested Coton de Tulear Irish Water Spaniel Kerry Blue Terrier Lagotto Romagnolo Lowchen Maltese Peruvian Inca Orchid Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard) Portuguese Water DogRussian Tsvetnaya BolonkaSchnauzer ( Miniature, Standard, Giant) Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Xoloitzcuintli Yorkshire TerrierWhat about mixed-breed dogs? With the current buzz surrounding poodle mixes like Golden Doodles, Bernedoodles, Labradoodles, and more, many interested in finding a hypoallergenic companion have been told they are the perfect option. The truth is that no one can give you an honest and definite answer that can be applied to all dogs of a specific mix.While “doodle” dogs do have poodles in their genes, it can’t be guaranteed that the hypoallergenic qualities of a poodle coat will be present in every puppy. For example, a Golden Doodle (Golden Retriever/Poodle) could be born with a hypoallergenic poodle-like coat or a coat that resembles the Golden Retriever more. If you live with allergies, you know that Golden Retrievers are definitely not a hypoallergenic option.This isn’t to say that mixed breeds won’t be hypoallergenic. However, you need to consider each dog's physical attributes individually instead of making an assumption based on their breed makeup. Dog Breeds Commonly Mislabeled as HypoallergenicOf course, while people generally mean well when making recommendations of the best dog for people with allergies, mistakes are going to be made. Some dog breeds are often recommended that shouldn’t be given this label.As we just discussed, the first group of dogs that should be mentioned here are mixed-breed dogs. While mixed breeds can be born with the hypoallergenic characteristics of a parent, there is no guarantee that the puppies will inherit those physical traits. Many families have adopted poodle mixes with the promise of purchasing a hypoallergenic dog, only to find their new beloved family member is badly triggering allergies in the home.Dog breeds often mistaken for hypoallergenic may share traits or commonalities with dogs on the previous list. However, they have other characteristics that contribute to allergic reactions in those around them. For example, a dog could have a very short coat but produce larger amounts of dander, a common dog-related allergen.Purebreds that are often mistaken or mislabeled as hypoallergenic include: Basset Hound Boxer Doberman Pinscher Labrador Retriever Pug Shih TzuIf in doubt, speak with the breeder or rescue worker about your needs. A reputable breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed they produce and committed to only placing their dogs in homes that are an ideal fit. Shelter and rescue workers are dedicated to finding the best home for the dogs in their care. Even if the dog you’re considering adopting isn’t a good fit, they will likely have recommendations for others you should consider.

American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier Basics Sometimes it’s important not to judge a pooch by his appearance. There’s more to any doggo than meets the eye. At first glance, the American Staffordshire Terrier can be an overawing breed of dog. This is thanks to the dog’s stocky and muscular build. They look like little tough guys. With its broad head, short muzzle, and demanding jaw bone, it’s no wonder that some people can feel intimidated by this dog. Add to that the American Staffordshire’s thick bone structure, sturdy weight, and scissor bite teeth, and you’ve got one serious dog to contend with. One who can certainly take care of himself in a tough spot. Thankfully, there’s more to the Amstaff than the dog’s rough exterior. Despite its tough look, the American Staffordshire Terrier is affectionate and loving. This is a pup with a lot of heart hidden within. A wonderful guard dog and a loving family pet, the American Staffordshire Terrier has a sweet side to him, one that made a lot of pet owners fall in love with the breed. Unjustly portrayed as a dangerous dog breed, the Amstaff is a gentle and devoted dog hidden with a muscular and imposing body. So, don’t be so judgmental the next time you see an American Staffordshire. Despite appearances, these doggies are absolute sweethearts and deserve to be treated as such! That said, precisely because of his reputation and the build that earned it for him, the American Staffordshire Terrier is not a breed for everyone. To live up to their potential, these dogs require experienced owners. Owners who know how to seriously approach training and socialization in ways that ensure good behavior and amiable temperament. Additionally, due to their athletic nature these dogs are not always a good choice for cramped condos or busy owners. The pooches need exercise and space to live their best lives. To ensure that the Amstaff is indeed the best choice of doggo for you and your family, read on to learn more about the breed before making a final decision. Despite its tough look, the American Staffordshire Terrier is affectionate and loving. Origin The American Stafford Terrier originated in 19th century Staffordshire, England. Developed with a strong muscular build, this breed was initially used for fighting (sad, but tragically true). They were also bred with the purpose of “bull baiting” in their original form. After this barbaric practice was finally banned, these puppers finally got the chance to show their true, affectionate side. Eventually, bull and terrier type dogs finally found their way to America as early as 1870, where they eventually became the unique breed known today as American Staffordshire Terrier. Also, they are known as the Pit Dog, Pit Bull Terrier, American Bull Terrier, Staffy, and Yankee Terrier. When the Cruelty to Animals Act was introduced in the mid 1800’s, these puppers were freed from their harsh life of fighting and baiting. In time, they were described as confident, muscular, good natured and loyal companions, which made them popular not only as dashing and elegant show dogs – but also as affectionate family pets. The American Staffordshire Terrier became popular in the 1920s thanks to one of these delightful doggos being cast as Pete the Pup in the popular serial Our Gang (aka The Little Rascals). Pete the Pup sparked the interest of viewers all across the United States, and soon after, families all over got to experience the delight of having one of these puppers as a loyal family friend. Sadly, American Staffordshire Terriers today are often connected with the image and subculture of gangsters. Due to their popularity amongst such social circles, the American Staffies continue to be mistreated, and their true, good natured character is discouraged by such reckless owners. Pedigree

Fur-Flying Tips for Spring Shedding Season

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Top 10 Cleanest Dog Breeds

Dogs are pretty messy creatures, so when you’re looking for one that’s neat and tidy, you’re in for the hunt. That’s why we’ve made a clean sweep of the top 10 cleanest dog breed. What defines a clean dog to you? One that doesn’t shed? A pooch that’s fastidious about self-grooming? How about a dog that never tracks dirt and mud into the house or that eats daintily without leaving food all over the kitchen floor? And where do drool and slobber fall on the list? While my Schnoodles are non-shedding (my Dyson thanks them), they’ve decided my sofa is the best way to wipe off wet, muddy paws after a run in the yard so to me, in spite of the lack of flying fur, their cleanliness scale ranking lands somewhere between not-so-great and spectacular-fail. And are we talking naturally clean or easy to clean? The possibilities are endless and while no one pooch can possibly tick all the boxes some are certainly labelled as cleaner than all the others. So, let’s take a deeper dive to find out what makes for a pristine pup. Our list of top 10 cleanest breeds includes the super clean dog, the pretty clean dog and the cleaner than most of the other dog breeds… in no particular order. American Hairless Terrier

American Pitbull Terrier

American Pitbull Terrier Basics The American Pitbull Terrier often gets a bad rap for being an aggressive breed. This is due to the fact that these dogs are often used for dog fighting. The reality of the situation is, however, that Pitties, as they are often referred to, are not aggressive by nature – any dog will become aggressive out of pain or fear if he is mistreated by his owners. When treated properly, the American Pitbull Terrier is one of the friendliest, most gentle-hearted breeds out there. If you are looking for an energetic and fun-loving family pet, the American Pitbull Terrier may be a great option. The American Pitbull Terrier is one of the friendliest, most gentle-hearted breeds out there. Origin The American Pitbull Terrier is descended from English Terriers and Bulldogs, bred in England and Ireland for the purpose of baiting bulls and bears. These dogs were bred for speed and strength with short, stiff coats and a strong jaw. When bear-baiting and bull-baiting were phased out in 1835, the Pitty came to be used for rat-baiting and dog fighting instead. Throughout the early 20th century, the breed was used for the purpose of catching semi-wild hogs and cattle as well as for driving livestock. Today the American Pitbull Terrier is kept as a companion pet and they are used for therapy dogs and police dogs. These dogs are still widely used for dog fighting in America, even though the practice is illegal. Pedigree

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

Non-Profit Brings Together Veterans and Rescue Dogs

There are few tales as heartwarming as the magic of the human-animal bond shared by dogs and their people. This love and loyalty that inspires Arizona-based nonprofit, Soldiers Best Friend, to bring together combat veterans and local homeless dogs for their happily ever after. The organization was founded by veterinarian John Burnham following the passing of his father in 2007. At this time, he realized he wanted to do something bigger to honor his father while using his personal and professional talents, and the rest, as they say, is history. Since its establishment in 2011, Soldiers Best Friend has remained unwavering in its commitment to its mission of 'touching 2 lives at once'. The organization pairs veterans with combat-related PTSD or traumatic brain injuries with dogs from local shelters. The veteran and dog train together, giving both a second chance at the quality of life they deserve while also allowing them to create the close bond that will strengthen their relationship moving forward. Not only do dogs find a forever home, helping to address the current pet overpopulation problem, but veterans are also provided with a unique and effective source of support free of charge. While John has stated that he will continue his mission until these service dogs are no longer needed, he also acknowledges that the time will likely never come—at least not in his lifetime. To date, Solder’s Best Friend has connected with and served over 400 veterans, an impressive feat. These dogs not only offer the veterans more independence at home, but they also make the greater world feel more accessible. Tiffany Batura, a retired Navy veteran who served for four years, shared her story. After retiring, Batura was faced with the incredible challenge of recovering from PTSD from her service. “I had not very many women on my boat,” she explained. “The military has changed a lot, but at the time, there was a lot of harassment.” When asked about Soldier’s Best Friend and her service dog, a lab named Deadly, she was happy to share how much the dog has made a difference in her life. “So far, I’ve noticed that I am more willing to go out in public. I’m not homebound all the time,” Batura stated. While that may not seem like a lot, it’s a life-changing difference for Batura and others who are faced with PTSD from their military experiences. In fact, according to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 7% of veterans will have PTSD. However, that rate is nearly double among female veterans, reaching a concerning 13%. If you’re interested in helping Solider’s Best Friend in their noble mission, you can show your support in several ways. Those based in Arizona can volunteer to help with various tasks, including administrative duties, building maintenance, fundraising events, and even fostering a dog. For those who live outside of Arizona or who have a busy schedule that prevents them from committing to volunteer work, the organization is an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization. Simply make your donations using QCO code 22497. Alternatively, they also have an Amazon Wish List with many items needed to continue their work. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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New Study Reveals The Best Time To Spay or Neuter Dogs

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Do Cat Colors Affect Personality?

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A lot of emphasis gets put on treats that help keep your dog’s teeth clean, but it is also an important consideration for your cat.

Scientists Found a New Type of Training that Makes Dogs Better Behaved

Training a dog can seem intimidating, and doesn’t always yield the expected results. Luckily for all dog owners out there, a new study has found another way to train your four-legged companion. Scientists at Aberystwyth University, located in Wales, United Kingdom, have discovered that scent training could improve pet dogs' behavior. The study shows that pet dogs trained to detect scents have a better mental ability and capacity to carry out certain tasks.Previous research only compared highly trained working dogs, like assistance dogs or search and rescue dogs, with untrained pet dogs. Now, for the first time, the researchers have tested the effects of scent training on two groups of untrained dogs. A research team from Aberystwyth University led the study in collaboration with Emma Stoker, owner of Puppy Plus, a dog training company based in Newton, Wales.The study involved 40 dogs of varying degrees of training, whose owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information about their pet. Researchers gave the dogs two tasks, both requiring impulse control. In the first test, called the “detour task”, the dogs needed to navigate a transparent barrier to get food. The second “A not B task”, tested the dogs’ ability to switch their choice from one pot to another, depending on where food was placed. Researchers separated the dogs into two groups to see whether their ability to detect scents would improve their cognitive ability. The dogs in the first group were given the “detour task” and had to navigate around a transparent barrier to get a treat. In the second group, the researchers said “Look” to the dog to get its attention and then showed it a treat before hiding it under a pot. Dogs in the second group underwent scent training, separated into three phases - familiarization, training, and test phase. In the first phase, only one pot was used. In the training phase, two pots were used, and in the final, test phase, three pots were used.Pate scent was rubbed on all pots to make it harder for the dogs to sniff out where the treat was hidden. If the dog didn’t respond within 20 seconds of being released to find the treat, or if it picked the wrong pot, the dog was shown the treat but wasn’t rewarded. Researchers discovered that dogs who received scent training performed the tasks more efficiently than those who weren’t trained. The study also showed that scent training improved dogs’ inhibitory control and helped them focus on completing a specific task. What’s important for dog owners to know is that poor impulse control is believed to be the main cause of a lot of unwanted behaviors in dogs, such as house soiling and destructive behavior. This new study suggests that scent training could help owners improve their dogs’ behavior. Dr. Sarah Dalesman, the co-author of the study, said: “This research shows that dogs that train primarily in scent work have stronger inhibitory control, suggesting that this training can have a positive effect on their behavior.”“Scent training is offered by a lot of dog trainers, and easy to practice at home. It might offer a great way for owners to improve their pets’ behavior, and we’re aiming to test this theory in future studies.”If scent training isn’t compatible with the way your pup learns, you can try agility or puzzle training. Puzzle training provides mental and physical stimulation and can come in handy when a dog needs to stay home alone or confined. Agility training is another option. Agility is a sport in which you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course allowing them to gain problem-solving skills. Try different training activities with your dog to find out what you and your pooch enjoy doing together the most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Get My Dog Used to Car Rides?

Getting your pooch accustomed to car rides can make travel more enjoyable and less stressful for both of you. Whether it’s simply running errands, a trip to the vet, a visit to the park, or a longer journey for a vacation, you will need to make sure that your pet feels comfortable and at ease while driving around with you. Whether you’re looking to train a puppy to be calm and well-behaved during car rides or to help your adult dog feel less anxious when you are driving him, here are some general guidelines you should follow.How Do I Get My Dog Used to Car Rides?First and foremost, you want to take things slow and steady. Begin by allowing your pooch to get used to the car environment while the car is not running. Let them sniff around, explore, and sit in the car when the engine is off. This will help them get familiar with the car’s smells and space without the anxiety of movement. After this, you will want to create positive associations with the car itself, by offering treats, praise, and toys when your dog is in or around the vehicle. This positive reinforcement will help your dog associate the car with good experiences – and nothing says a good experience for a pooch like a yummy snack or being told you’re a good boy (or a girl). Once your doggo is comfortable just being inside a car that’s not moving, it’s time to start driving – but start with short trips first. A quick drive around the block or a short journey to the nearby park can be a good start. Keep these initial trips short to prevent overwhelming your dog.

Martha Stewart's Persian Cat, Empress Tang, Crosses the Rainbow Bridge

Loss of lifestyle guru's 15-year old fur kid now leaves her feisty feline, Blackie in charge.

Can Cats Get Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a well-known threat to dogs and humans, but what about our feline friends? Should we take steps to prevent transmission or protect our cats when they are spending time outdoors? While cats CAN contract Lyme disease, it’s far less common than in dogs. (PheBorrw!)This begs the question: Should cat parents be concerned about this tick-borne illness? How significant is the danger to our furry friends? Let’s dive into the details to understand the risks and preventative measures to keep your cat safe. What is Lyme Disease? Let’s start at the beginning – What is Lyme Disease and why should we be concerned about the risk it poses for our cats? Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (and, on rare occasions, Borrelia mayonii). This bacterium is transmitted to the animal (or human) through the bite of an infected tick. It then moves through the bloodstream, spreading the infection and leading to potentially serious health complications. Cats are capable of being infected by the bacteria responsible for the disease. Luckily, our feline friends are also highly resistant to it, making the infection highly unlikely to develop and spread. Their grooming habits also help to prevent a problem from occurring. But, if you’re like me, you recognize that highly unlikely doesn’t mean it can’t happen and would rather take steps to prevent a problem just in case. How is Lyme Disease Spread? The bacteria responsible for Lyme Disease is carried by infected black-legged ticks (deer ticks), which are commonly found in many areas of North America. When the tick bites an animal or human, it transmits the bacteria into the bloodstream, but this transmission isn’t instantaneous. As the infection spreads, it starts to impact different areas of the body, including the joints, kidneys, neurological system, and heart. The infected animal or person often feels the effects of this infection for the rest of their lives. In the most severe cases, Lyme Disease is fatal. Removing the tick in the first 24-48 hours reduces the infection risk. Of course, the best way to avoid Lyme Disease is to prevent tick bites from occurring in the first place.

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