American Hairless Terrier

American Hairless Terrier

American Hairless Terrier

American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier is a breed of dog that was formerly considered a variant of Rat Terrier. As of January 1, 2004, the United Kennel Club deemed the AHT a separate terrier breed. It is often mistaken for a hairless Chihuahua.

The American Hairless Terrier is a smoothly muscled, active, small-to-medium terrier.

Height: 7-16 inches (18–41 cm.)

Weight: 5-16 pounds (2.5–7 kg.)

These dogs do not have absent premolars or any of the breeding complications associated with the hairless breeds. The AHT does not have the major skin problems commonly seen in hairless dogs. Sometimes they will get a rash on their skin. Because of their lack of hair, they do need protection from the sun. Sunscreen should be applied or a shirt should be worn, not only for the protection from the sun but from the cold as well. AHT's do have sweat glands and will get pimples! They go away on their own. Rashes due to grass allergies are not that uncommon. Other allergies do occur as well. Another difference found between the breeds is that the American Hairless Terrier's hairless gene is recessive, while the gene for hairlessness found in the ancient breeds is a lethal dominant.