When it comes to dogs, the coat is one of the characteristics that most attracts our attention. But did you know that more and more people are interested in having a hairless dog? There are only 10 so-called “hairless” dogs in the world, some of which are totally hairless and others have only a little in some areas.
Keep reading below to discover what these exotic hairless dog breeds are, what characterizes them, what are the advantages of having a hairless dog as a pet, and what are their basic care requirements.
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Hairless dog breeds
First of all, it should be noted that hairless dogs are not a new trend in the world of dog grooming. These specimens have been like this since birth.
The 10 best hairless dogs that exist are:
- American hairless terrier
- Chinese crested
- Xoloitzcuintli or Mexican dairless dog
- Viringo or Peruvian dairless dog
- Argentinian pila dog
- Abyssinian Sand Terrier or African hairless dog
- Khala or Bolivian hairless dog
- Jonangi dog
- Ecuadorian hairless dog
- Hairless chihuahua
Let’s see what its main characteristics are, both physical and temperamental.
1. American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is one of only 3 hairless dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is said that it was developed in the 1970s, in Louisiana, especially for owners sensitive to allergies.
In essence, this dog is a rat terrier or buzzard terrier, but without hair. The first American Hairless Terrier was obtained by a natural variation of the breed, not as a result of a specific breeding process.
The American Hairless comes in two varieties: hairless and coated. The hairless variety may have eyebrows and whiskers, with smooth, soft, warm skin.
Another striking feature, in addition to the absence of hair on the entire body, is the V-shaped ears, always erect.
In terms of temperament, it is described as a very intelligent, playful, and curious dog by nature. He is as lively and energetic as any other terrier breed.
On the downside, the American Hairless Terrier is known to be a stubborn little dog, requiring a lot of patience and consistency to train. Although he can relate well to children, it is noted that he is often a bit protective.
In general, it is considered a good pet dog for the whole family, especially for allergy sufferers.
It requires very little maintenance; even so, an owner should keep in mind that the breed is sensitive to low temperatures and prone to sunburn.
- Origin: United States
- Purebred
- Life expectancy: 14-16 years
- Height: 18-41cm
- Weight: 2.5 – 7kg
- Colors: Black, Speckled, Spotted, White, Apricot
- Hypoallergenic: Yes ( exceptions may exist )
See later: How Many Types of Terrier Dogs Are There? 30+ Terrier Breeds and Pictures
2. Chinese Crested
It is said that this is the most elegant among all hairless dog breeds.
The Chinese Crested is not completely hairless. Some specimens are born hairless on the body, but with a crest or fringe of long hair on the head, as well as on the legs and tail. Other dogs are born with the body covered, except for the face and the tips of the ears.
The variation of the coat of the Chinese Crested Dog is due to a recessive gene in one of the parents, hence in the same litter, we can find hairless and hairy specimens.
Given its lapdog history, the Crested is described as a playful companion. He is very loving, caring, and family-focused. He loves to spend time with his owner of him and has a special ability to read his emotions.
As a future owner, it is important to consider the nature of this breed. They are known to suffer from separation anxiety when they don’t get enough human company. It is not the dog indicated for people who are too busy.
Also, be warned that you have sensitive skin, prone to sunburn, rashes, and even blackheads or acne.
- Origin: China
- Purebred
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Height: 25-33cm
- Weight: 3.2 – 5.4kg
- Colors: black, apricot, white, blue, chocolate, cream, palomino, dark gray
- Hypoallergenic: Yes ( exceptions may exist )
3. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, Xolo, or Mexican Hairless Dog was the companion and guard dog of the ancient Aztecs. Like other hairless breeds, this one too comes in a coated variation, but the smooth, tough-skinned hairless dog is much more iconic and popular.
Something that many do not know is that the Aztec hairless dog comes in 3 different sizes: toy, miniature, and standard.
This ancient dog still retains primitive reflexes. Their social and hunting instincts are not like those of other dogs. Since it was not bred to perform a particular task, breeders have made a few modifications to the breed.
The Xoloitzcuintli is a very intelligent dog. He can be sensitive at times, but generally exhibits an alert and energetic temperament. Due to its strong hunting and guarding instincts, it needs a lot of socialization to get along with other dogs and small pets.
In addition, he often needs training as a puppy if he is to become a good companion for children.
With proper training and socialization, this muscular hairless dog can be a calm and calm-natured pet.
- Origin: Mexico
- Purebred
- Life expectancy: 14-20 years
- Height: 38-51cm
- Weight: 6.8 – 14kg
- Colors: black, white, brown, gray, variegated
- Hypoallergenic: Yes ( exceptions may exist )
4. Peruvian Hairless Dog
As its name indicates, the Viringo or Peruvian hairless dog is originally from Peru. This dog is recognized by both the AKC and the FCI (International Cynological Federation). Like the Xoloitzcuintli, the Peruvian hairless breed comes in three different sizes (small, medium, and large) and has a coated variety.
Despite being labeled as a type of hairless dog, it is not completely hairless. It can present a coat of short hair, not very thick, on the head, part of the face, and on the tail.
The Inca Hairless Dog is an excellent family, hunter, and guard dog. It is often described as a loving, alert, and lively companion. He is agile, slim, and athletic; moderate exercise is a key factor for good behavior.
Commonly included in the bloodhound group, it is known to be obedient, intelligent, and loyal; however, their strong hunting instinct makes early socialization essential.
The skin of the Peruvian Viringo is susceptible and delicate, so it requires special care to stay healthy.
- Origin: Peru
- Purebred
- Life expectancy: 11-13 years
- Height: 25-65cm
- Weight: 4 – 25kg
- Colors: black, white, brown, gray, pink, tan, spotted
- Hypoallergenic: Yes ( exceptions may exist )
5. Argentine pile dog
The Argentine pila dog is a close relative of the Peruvian Hairless Dog. This breed is often highly admired for its smooth fur. It can also come in 3 sizes: small, medium, or large. Its build resembles that of a miniature Doberman Pinscher, with a shorter back and a raised curly tail.
Thanks to its lean and athletic body build, this is a very agile dog, able to run, jump, and climb trees with little effort. Its long, pointed ears stand erect on its narrow head.
Most of the specimens of this breed are hairless, but it is possible to find pile dogs with small tufts on the top of the head and on the tail. Some may even have hair on their body (rare).
The Argentine Hairless Dog is playful, energetic, and cunning. They are said to be obedient breed, easy to breed, and able to adapt well to life in different environments. In fact, he is a good hairless dog for apartment life. Mind you, you need to expend your energy levels through exercise.
His watchdog instincts lead him to be curious and wary of strangers, but he is not aggressive. He is considered an excellent hairless pet for children.
The Argentine Pila Dog lacks official recognition by the major kennel clubs in the world.
- Origin: Argentina
- Race: not defined
- Life expectancy: up to 20 years
- Height: 25-55cm
- Weight: 3.6 – 25kg
- Colors: dark gray, black, brown, spotted
- Hypoallergenic: Yes ( exceptions may exist )
6. Abyssinian Sand Terrier
This ancient and rare hairless terrier is native to Africa. It is not a well-known breed internationally. While most individuals are completely hairless, some may have tufts of fine hair on top of the head and tip of the tail.
Another of the physical characteristics that make the Abyssinian unique is its large “bat” style ears.
The African hairless dog is said to have been revered in ancient times because it was thought to have healing powers. Although its origins are not entirely clear, some historians believe that it served as the foundation for the development of other breeds of hairless dogs, including the Chinese Crested.
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is described as a quiet dog, with little tendency to bark. Many owners say they have had to teach their dogs to bark.
He is reckless and brave. Being skinny and small doesn’t stop her from defending her home and family from him, though he doesn’t consider himself big enough to be a guard dog. Likewise, he shows a loyal and affectionate temperament, getting along well with other dogs and children.
- Origin: Africa
- Purebred
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Height: 39-52cm
- Weight: 9.5 – 18kg
- Colors: Black, Grey, Bronze, Sand, Speckled
- Hypoallergenic: Not applicable
7. Bolivian Hairless Dog
The Bolivian Hairless Dog, also called the Hairless Khala, is a rare breed native to Bolivia. There are two variations: a smaller, stockier, medium, and a large, greyhound-type khala. Although they have no hair on their bodies, they do have an area of white or yellow hair on their foreheads.
This primitive dog was not bred to perform a specific job or role in society. The breed is believed to have made a natural transition into a companion and hunting dog.
Bolivian hairless specimens are quite difficult to find, even on the South American continent. And since they haven’t been recognized by any of the major kennel clubs, they are almost non-existent in North America and other parts of the world.
The Hairless Khala is an affectionate and loyal dog with the family but is often aloof and wary of strangers. Be warned that he needs a lot of socialization as a puppy. He thrives well under firm and consistent, yet gentle leadership.
- Origin: Latin America
- Purebred
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Height: 36-51cm
- Weight: 6.8 – 13.5kg
- Colors: dark gray
- Hypoallergenic: Yes ( exceptions may exist )
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