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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.
Reputedly, the breed started when one hairless puppy appeared in one Rat Terrier litter in the state of Louisiana, United States, in 1972. Edwin and Willie Scott, the owners, liked the dog's look and temperament, and upon maturity bred her hoping to reproduce the hairless quality. They were eventually successful; a litter produced in 1981 provided the foundation stock of the breed.
In build, the American Hairless Terrier is identical to the medium-sized Rat Terriers, from whom he is directly descended. The American Hairless is a well-muscled dog with a deep chest, strong shoulders, solid neck, and powerful legs. The ears are carried erect when the dog is alert and are called bat, similar to the Rat Terrier's. Tails must be full length. Bobs, either natural or docked are a disqualification. The skin is pink with gray, black, golden or red spots. Hairless-to-hairless breeding always produces completely hairless puppies.
Hairless-to-coated mating is producing variable results, depending on chances and whether the coated dog is a carrier of the hairless trait. Hairless pups are born with a bit of sparse fuzzy hair all over their body. The pup will shed this fuzz, starting with the head, proceeding backwards, becoming entirely and eternally hairless by the age of six weeks. They do not have tufts of hair on the head, feet and end of tail, as do the Chinese Crested. They do however, have normal eyebrows and whiskers.
The UKC is the only governing body that recognizes the breed. While this organization is a national body, the breed is waiting for an international official breakthrough. In 1998 the breed gained recognition as the American Hairless Terrier by the American Rare Breeds Association and the National Rat Terrier Club. Canada was the first country outside the US to gain recognition, by Canadian Rarities in 1999.
In 1999 the breed was recognized as Rat Terrier, Hairless Variety by the UKC. The breed continues to grow internationally, with several dedicated breeders diligently working together to promote and protect the breed. In the US the American Hairless Terrier Association is the UKC provisional breed club. Other National Breed Clubs around the world include the Canadian American Hairless Terrier Association, the Japanese Hairless American Terrier Club, and in Europe the Finnish American Hairless Terriers Club. These clubs continue to work towards recognition by their national governing organizations and the FCI.
American Hairless Terriers are intelligent, alert playful and loving dogs. Very inquisitive and lively. This affectionate dog makes an excellent companion for anyone. They are good with children, especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood. The American Hairless Terrier, unlike other dog breeds, will break out in a sweat when hot or scared. They are fairly territorial, stubborn and for the most part friendly with strangers.
American Hairless Terrier make good watchdogs. They are not good swimmers and need to be closely monitored. These dogs are quick and very playful. They are not yappers. The temperament of these dogs is pure terrier. The lively, feisty, fearless nature found in the best of terriers is sure to mellow, as ratting cannot be recommended, due to the increased vulnerability brought on by the lack of a protective coat. This breed seems to train easily and are eager to please.
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