American Hairless Terrier
Also known as Aht
United States, Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 30–41 cm
- Weight
- 5–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 14–16 yrs
- Energetic
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
- Curious
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a small, active terrier that is born with a fine coat which falls out in the first weeks, leaving bare skin. A coated variety also exists. It is the only hairless breed from the United States.
Temperament
AHTs are intelligent, energetic and affectionate, with typical terrier curiosity. They are often less intense than some other terriers and can be good family dogs.
Exercise
They need about an hour of daily exercise and play. Protect hairless dogs from sun and cold when outdoors.
Grooming
Hairless dogs need regular bathing and skin care, plus sun protection and coats in cold weather. Coated dogs need only a weekly brush. Less hair can help some allergy sufferers, but skin flakes and saliva still carry allergens.
Care & wellbeing
Hairless skin can burn, dry out or develop spots, so a vet-approved skincare routine is useful. Positive training suits their sensitive nature. Burns, sores or rashes that do not settle should be seen by a vet.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 6 kg adult- Water
- 240 ml–360 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 430 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a American Hairless Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The breed began in Louisiana in the early 1970s, when a hairless puppy was born in a litter of Rat Terriers. The family who owned her bred from her and eventually established a line of hairless dogs. The UKC recognised the breed in the late 1990s, and the AKC in 2016.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Sunburn and skin irritation
- Patellar luxation
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Skin allergies
- Dental problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella check
- Hip scoring
- Eye examination
Not every American Hairless Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 14–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a American Hairless Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a American Hairless Terrier get?
Adult American Hairless Terriers typically stand about 30–41 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–7 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do American Hairless Terriers live?
Typically 14–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a American Hairless Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a American Hairless Terrier need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are American Hairless Terriers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do American Hairless Terriers shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are American Hairless Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a American Hairless Terrier live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do American Hairless Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to sunburn and skin irritation, patellar luxation, legg-calvé-perthes disease. Not every American Hairless Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the AKC and UKC; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club