American Hairless Terrier - breed description and dog character

The American Hairless Terrier is a relatively new breed of dog. But, despite this, these dogs have already earned considerable popularity in the world. They are descended from Pied Piper dogs. In 2004, this breed was recognized as independent.

These dogs have a pretty attractive appearance and good-natured character. But their main advantage is that they do not have wool. This is a great chance for those who really want to get a dog, but can not do this because of allergies.

History of occurrence

The history of this breed intersects with the history of rat terriers and rat-catchers. This breed was bred in the UK. These dogs were used to fight rodents and foxes that encroached on the property of farmers and pets. For several centuries, this breed was intended only for practical purposes. Therefore, the appearance of the dogs was not given any significance. Together with the British, the dogs got to the American continent, as the owners took their loyal assistants with them. In a new place, these dogs quickly gained their popularity. They had no equal in the fight against rodents. But in the 30s, the rapid development of industry in the country began. In this regard, many farmers ceased to engage in agriculture in order to work in factories. As a result, the number of these dogs has declined.

Modern hairless terriers appeared as a result of a gene mutation in 1972. In one of the litters, puppies were born that did not have a coat. Dogs were very similar to their parents. The only difference was the lack of wool. The owners gave one of the puppies to friends. They really liked him, the dog was quite friendly and smart.

The owners of an unusual puppy decided to breed such dogs. They studied the principles of breeding for a long time, learning from geneticists and dog handlers. Specialists advised to mate the puppy with his father. Attempts were successful, as several more puppies without hair were born. But in the litter there were also individuals covered with wool.

The breed was recognized in 1990. After 9 years, she gained great demand in Canada, and a year later - and all over the world.

Representatives of the breed were born in limited numbers. They needed to be crossed with representatives of the breed of rat terrier. After that, several types of dogs appeared - small and medium.

These species are distinguished by genetic characteristics. At the first in the litter, only one naked puppy can be born. In the second case, if you cross two dogs that do not have hair, then all puppies will be born naked.

What are the differences between these two species?

1. First type. Dogs are born with short hair, but after 5 weeks it disappears. A little wool is left only on the head. Sometimes a small fluff grows on the dog’s body. They have soft skin.
2. The second type. Puppies are born with a small amount of hair, which does not go away with age.

Appearance

These dogs have a muscular body and a long neck. Growth is about 42 cm, and their weight, as a rule, is 5 kg or less.

Breed Standard:

1. The head in size is in harmony with the body of the dog. It has a wedge-shaped shape. The muzzle is wide, convex.
2. Lips are dry, fit tightly. The color should match the nose, which can be brown or black. The cheeks are muscular.
3. When participating in exhibitions, it is necessary that the bite be scissor-like.
4. The eyes are convex, medium in size.
5. The ears are triangular in shape. Most often sticking out, but can also hang on the cartilage.
6. The naked terrier has a long neck.
7. The back is flat with a short lower back, ribs are pronounced.
8. The tail at the base is thick, but tapers toward the tip.
9. Dogs without hair can have any skin color. Usually they are the same color with several spots. If there is a fluff on the dog’s body, it should be white. If the wool is two-color, such a dog will not be able to participate in the exhibition.
10. These dogs are agile in combination with strength. The limbs move smoothly.

Dog character

These dogs are very good companions. They are smart, very curious and exhibit physical activity. They are happy to learn, because they love to please the owner, hoping for praise. Representatives of this breed are sociable and open. From such a dog, you can make a pet that is ideal for this particular family.

The breed belongs to hunting dogs. Therefore, naked terriers have the corresponding instincts. They are very brave and will be good advocates for family members and their homes. Just because they do not show aggression. As a rule, they have a reason for this.

Experts do not recommend using this breed as a hunting one. This is due to the fact that the skin of dogs is not protected. You can go for a run with him or just take a walk.

Representatives of this breed get used to one owner and recognize only him. But he will serve each of the members of his family. Another advantage is that these dogs treat children well. The dog will not offend the baby, but will become a good companion for him. The naked terrier can play with the child for hours on end. These pets just love various active games. They always need communication. If you leave the dog alone for quite some time, it will be sad, but it will not harbor any grudge against you.

Fact! The American Hairless Terrier is so good-natured that it finds common ground even with cats. He gets along with her, even if they have not grown under the same roof.

These dogs are particularly loyal, and at any opportunity like to show it. Sometimes a dog may even seem annoying. If you leave the pet alone for a long time, it will bark loudly to attract attention.

It is best to keep a naked terrier out of town. Of course, they can live in an apartment, but it is important to remember that you will have to walk with this dog for a long time.

The naked terrier treats strangers peacefully. If the owner reacts calmly to the person, then the dog will not show aggression towards him.

Health

Since this breed appeared recently, there is no data on what hereditary diseases these dogs can get. Scientists claim that their genetic mutation does not pose a threat to the health of dogs. They develop quite normally, without any defects. In addition, representatives of the breed live for a long time. On average, a pet can live about 15 years.

Their skin is not protected by wool. Therefore, representatives of the breed suffer from severe cold or exposure to the sun. In summer, before you go for a walk with this dog, you need to apply a cream on his skin that will protect the dog’s hairless skin from the sun. In winter, the dog should be dressed in warm clothes.

It is known that these terriers can suffer from diseases such as gastritis, hepatitis and staphylococcus.

Care

1. Dogs of this breed do not need grooming. Sometimes their skin needs to be wiped. It is advisable to use special products for dogs to care for the hairless skin of the pet.It is important that all of these products are natural. Otherwise, a naked terrier may develop an allergy. It is recommended to bathe such a dog quite often - 2-3 times a week. During games, running or as a result of stress, naked terriers sweat. Therefore, if necessary, their skin should be wiped.
2. The teeth of representatives of this breed are quite strong, but sometimes they can suffer from gum disease. If the dog is properly fed, this problem will not occur.
3. Terrier ears and eyes are recommended to be wiped several times a month. If the dog’s eyes are watery, then the procedure can be done more often.
4. Claws need to be cut several times a year.

Nutrition

Owners of dogs of this breed should follow a diet that is usually recommended for decorative doggies. Feeding them better with lamb and chicken. They are very fond of various dairy products, but they need to be given little by little so that the dog’s stomach is not upset. You can give them boiled eggs. You can feed the naked terrier and dry food. It is important to add various vitamin complexes to the diet.

Features of education

Representatives of this breed are very well suited for those who previously did not have a dog. He will obediently study, as he loves to please his master. But for the dog to learn the necessary commands, it must be encouraged. You can not scream at the pet, treat it rudely. It only scares him. It is best to conduct classes in the form of a game.

Breed benefits

1. Due to the fact that more and more people suffer from allergies, and dog lovers are not getting smaller, the breed has gained immense popularity.
2. Those who started this dog claim that the dog is very sociable and friendly.
3. Naked terriers can be started for families with small children. Many call them “home babysitters” because the dog can play with the baby for hours on end.
4. These dogs are very smart, they are able to determine the mood of the owner by only one facial expression. If someone in the family is sick, the dog feels this and shows pity. When the owner is busy with something, the dog can simply lie nearby, not disturbing him, but at the same time, being near him.

When the terrier is at home, he behaves quite restrained, does not create a mess, follows the rules that the owner has established for him. All these advantages suggest that a naked terrier can be an ideal dog even for those who have no experience in keeping such pets. In addition, even those who already have other pets at home, including cats, can buy a puppy. The friendly nature of the dog allows him to get along with any pet.

The main advantage of this dog for people with allergies is the absence of hair. In this regard, the breed is unique. But the lack of hair does not make the dog less attractive and cute compared to its wool counterparts.

Video: American Naked Terrier dog breed