American Hairless Terrier

Because this is a small breed, holding a healthy weight matters, since some dogs gain weight as they age. Monitor food and treats, and remember that treats help during training but too many can lead to obesity.

Feeding frequency changes with age:

• Puppies under 4 months: four or five small meals a day, which helps avoid the low blood sugar seen in small-breed pups
• Fully grown adults: two meals a day keep most dogs satisfied

The feeding guide on the package gives a total amount for a 24-hour period. Use it as a general guide, since exact needs depend on age, health, and lifestyle, and talk to your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. A puzzle feeder adds mental work and keeps the dog busy while it eats.

Dogs eating an AAFCO-compliant food generally get the nutrients they need. Your vet may suggest supplements based on your dog's needs, so talk to them about any nutrition concerns and never give a supplement without veterinary oversight.

Both varieties keep grooming light, but in different ways. The coated type wears a short, shiny coat that barely sheds, so a once-weekly pass with a soft bristle brush and an occasional bath are all it needs. The hairless type has no coat to brush, but its bare skin needs a regular care routine instead.

For the hairless dog, guard against sunburn with dog-friendly sunscreen or by blocking the sun with clothing. These dogs chill quickly when the temperature drops, so use a sweater or coat outdoors and a blanket indoors. Bathe them often, preferably weekly, with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo, then check for dry spots, redness, or flaky patches and keep the skin moisturized with a dog-friendly lotion or cream.

Hairless dogs may also be prone to acne. Medicated wipes can help with skin infections, and your vet can advise on keeping skin comfortable.

Check the ears regularly and watch for ear-scratching, head-shaking, discharge, or a bad smell, all signs of an ear infection. Ask your vet how often to clean the ears and which products to use. Trim the nails regularly.

The American Hairless Terrier has moderate exercise needs. It should go outside several times a day, but brief daily sessions in a fenced yard or regular walks usually cover it. These dogs enjoy activity yet are just as happy to curl up on the couch next to their owner, and after their daily exercise they will gladly snuggle.

Mental stimulation matters as much as physical activity. Without enough to do, these smart, energetic dogs can dig and develop other destructive habits to entertain themselves. A puzzle feeder, a daily neighborhood walk, or a run through an agility course all help keep the mind occupied.

High trainability makes the breed a strong candidate for canine activities such as obedience, rally, and agility. Watchful by nature, these terriers will bark to alert the family to visitors or strange noises, and steady exercise and mental work help reduce excess barking.

Gently exposing a puppy to a wide range of people, places, and situations between about 7 weeks and 4 months helps it grow into a well-adjusted, well-mannered adult. Puppy classes also teach owners how to spot and head off behavior problems while strengthening the bond between dog and owner.

The American Hairless Terrier is intelligent and eager to please, so training tends to be easy and enjoyable. Keep sessions short and full of positive reinforcement. Obedience and trick training are a good place to start, and the breed's temperament suits obedience and agility work well.

A well-socialized American Hairless Terrier does well around new people and other pets and generally gets along with children. Even so, supervise young children at all times with any dog, regardless of breed, and teach kids how to interact with a small dog.