Chinese Crested Dogs, another of the hairless breeds has become a popular companion animal in many homes. Affectionately named the “clown dog”, we like to joke that if they had thumbs we’d all be in big trouble!
Many hairless dogs share similar traits; they have a hairless and coated variety often born in the same litter, the hairless are often missing teeth, they are naturally hardy and healthy, and they tend to recognize and gravitate towards their own kind. Exceptions to the rule include the American Hairless Terrier who is born with a soft downy peach fuzz that diminishes as they reach adolescence. AHT’s do not have the same dental deficiencies as other hairless breeds, and skin issues are rare. Although they do sweat quite a bit!
They are NOT, as many commonly believe, “hypo-allergenic”. Allergies are caused by dander (dead skin), and saliva; both of which all dogs produce. Very few allergies are actually caused by hair, though it is not uncommon. Since hairless dogs require more frequent bathing, less dander is produced, thus less irritation off allergy symptoms. You might call them “low allergy breeds”.
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