Hairless Dog Breeds That Lack a Fur Coat
Did you know there are dogs who don’t sport fur coats? That’s right, there are several hairless dog breeds, just like there are hairless cat breeds, and these dogs are full of love and personality just like their coated counterparts. Here’s a look at four hairless canine breeds that make wonderful companions.
1. American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a great choice if you want a small dog who doesn’t have a coat that sheds. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), this breed measures 12 to 16 inches tall and weighs 12 to 28 pounds, on average. These dogs also have a life expectancy averaging 14 to 16 years.
Featuring a range of colors and markings, these fur-free dogs are hypoallergenic and have soft skin. Since they’re hairless and feel cold more quickly and intensely than dogs with full coats, consider getting this terrier a jacket or sweater like the Spark Paws WarmShield Water-Resistant Jacket.
American Hairless Terriers are good for families, including those with children. They’re eager to please and intelligent, and have a moderate amount of energy and playfulness, so they can be lots of fun.
Note: There are two types of American Hairless Terriers, one of which has a short coat with minimal grooming needs.
2. Chinese Crested
Like the American Hairless Terrier, the Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: coated, also known as powderpuff, and hairless. But even the hairless ones will have some hair on their ankles, head, and tail, so this is one of the most unique looking dogs.
According to the AKC, Chinese Crested dogs grow to an average height of 11 to 13 inches, and weigh an average of 8 to 12 pounds. If you guessed that these are toy dogs, you’d be right. And, in terms of their average life expectancy, it’s 13 to 18 years.
Described as lively, playful, and loving, the Chinese Crested makes a good family pet, getting along moderately well with children and other dogs. They aren’t difficult to train, and are open to meeting strangers.
3. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Another beautiful hairless breed is the Peruvian Inca Orchid, which comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. These dogs range in height from 9.75 to 25.75 inches and weigh 8.5 to 55 pounds, on average, according to the AKC. They have a bit of a shorter life expectancy compared to breeds like the Chinese Crested and American Hairless Terrier, as it ranges from 12 to 14 years.
Super affectionate with loads of energy, Peruvian Inca Orchids need a lot of mental stimulation and are intelligent and lively. They’re moderately good with kids and other dogs, but because they’re sighthounds who like to hunt, they may go after small pets.
These dogs can be hairless or have a fur coat, and they come in a variety of colors with various markings. Like all hairless dogs, Peruvian Inca Orchids can be prone to skin damage from exposure to the sun’s UV rays, so consider using a dog-safe sunscreen to protect them when they go outside.
4. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo for short, is an ancient dog breed. Like other hairless canines on this list, this one also comes in a coated variety. Both coated and hairless Xolos are considered easy when it comes to grooming, but hairless dogs can benefit from sunscreen for protection from the sun’s harsh rays, and young Xolos might develop acne.
According to the AKC, the Xolo comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. On average, they range in height from 10 to 23 inches and weigh 10 to 55 pounds. Also, they live an average of 13 to 18 years.
In terms of personality, Xolos are very affectionate, and moderately good with children and other dogs. They’re also adaptable, playful, and eager to please, with a high energy level, so they’ll need daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Caring for Hairless Dogs
In some ways, hairless dogs are easier to care for because they don’t have fur coats that shed or become matted. In other ways, though, they require some extra attention compared to other breeds. So, if you’re thinking about getting a hairless dog, do your research into their specific needs to ensure they’re actually a good match for your lifestyle.
A hairless dog has skin that’s exposed, without the protection of a coat. This means they can feel cold rather quickly, and might even become susceptible to hypothermia. Dog sweaters and jackets are great options for keeping your companion comfy while out and about. When indoors, your dog might need a heated bed if they start to show signs that they’re cold.
Throughout the year, you can protect your dog’s skin from sunburn while outside. Use a sunscreen made with ingredients that are safe for dogs. If you have other pets, such as cats, beware that some dog sunscreens are toxic to other animals, so read labels carefully to keep everyone safe.
In addition to keeping your hairless dog’s ears clean and nails trimmed, bathe them on a regular basis with a gentle, dog-safe shampoo and conditioner. The Wahl Dog Shampoo Oatmeal Formula is one option, as it helps moisturize dry skin and soothe itchiness and irritation. Bathing helps remove excess oils, and may help prevent certain skin issues like acne, while keeping the skin soft.
If you aren’t sure which products are best for hairless dogs, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice. Your vet can also provide guidance on topics like how often to bathe your dog and how to look for signs of skin issues that require treatment.
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Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.
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