Best Hairless Dog Breeds for Pets
While it’s always nice to pet a fluffy pup, there are plenty of reasons that you may want a hairless dog breed for a pet instead. If you have allergies, don’t want to deal with a lot of shedding, or simply like the look of a hairless best friend, then you’ll want to consider these hairless dog breeds for your next pet.
Benefits of a Hairless Dog
There are two types of hairless genes (that we are aware of) in dogs—the dominant gene in the Chinese crested dog, Hr, and the recessive gene in the American hairless terrier, ha. Mexicans, Chinese, Peruvian Incas, and Japanese all have types of hairless dogs in their history.
Some people simply love the look of a hairless dog as these dogs definitely give off an artistic vibe of sophistication and even a bit of rebellion against the norm. In addition, dogs with no hair require little to no grooming and don’t shed around the house.
Some hairless dogs may also be useful for those with allergies, although many humans are allergic to dog dander and saliva as well, so a hairless breed may not solve all problems if you’ve got severe dog allergies.
Ultimately, hairless dogs are unique, artistic breeds and are fairly easy to maintain. Keep in mind that they will need baths, skin moisturizer, and special protection from sun and cold without that fur coat to keep them safe.
Best Hairless Dog Breeds to Get as Pets
There are relatively few hairless dog breeds out there, but here are the top choices for you if you’re looking for a hairless friend to bring into your home.
The Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli (show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee), also known as the Mexican hairless dog, is a small, affectionate dog that you can get in either toy, miniature, or standard size. This dog comes with dark, smooth skin, a strong, graceful body, and an alert, intelligent face.
Mexican hairless dogs are an ancient breed from the Aztecs and come in both a hairless variety or a short-coated variety. These beautiful dogs are generally low-maintenance and fairly calm, though they are of course protective of their owners when necessary.
These dogs usually live between 13 and 18 years. They’re not the friendliest of dogs, so be cautious around other dogs or children, but they’re typically loyal and obedient. The Xoloitzcuintli is definitely a top choice for a hairless dog breed!
The Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a common hairless dog that originated in Peru as a companion animal. This dog comes in hairless and coated varieties, though the hairless variety is much more common. Peruvian Inca Orchids usually have white, pink, or gray skin, but could have black, brown, or tan as well.
Peruvian Inca Orchids are athletic dogs akin to greyhounds or whippets. You can get them in small, medium, or large and some have patches of fur on their heads, paws, and tails. In general, these dogs live 14-16 years and weigh anywhere from 8.5 pounds to 55 pounds depending on the size you get
As with the Mexican hairless dog, be sure to supervise your Peruvian Inca Orchid around children or other dogs (especially small dogs) since they are often not friendly with outsiders. These pups love to exercise and are incredibly loyal to their families.
The Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is an affectionate toy breed that comes in two varieties: hairless, with puffs of fur on the head, tail, and ankles; or powderpuff, with a soft, long coat. This dog usually comes with spotted skin in gray or pink and is slender and lithe.
The Chinese Crested is small, weighing between 8 and 12 pounds. Its life expectancy is between 13 and 18 years. These dogs are usually playful but cuddly, and they tend to be a little less friendly toward other animals or people.
Chinese Crested dogs are perfect for families who want a loyal, playful, cuddly dog with little to no shedding and a unique appearance.
The American Hairless Terrier
Native to Louisiana, the American Hairless Terrier is perfect for those who want a hairless dog with incredibly low allergy potential and a fierce terrier attitude. This dog usually weighs between 12 and 16 pounds and comes with soft, warm skin, a broad forehead, and classic pointed ears.
The American Hairless Terrier is a loyal companion who tends to adore his family. He is a great watchdog and enjoys hunting small rodents. Hairless Terriers love to run and play and are usually incredibly brave.
As with other hairless dogs, it’s important that you provide protection from the sun and the cold when going outside with your American Hairless Terrier. However, this pup is usually easy to train and needs only minimal exercise, so overall, it’s an easy and lovable dog to care for!
Rarer Hairless Dog Breeds
While the above are the most common hairless dog breeds, there are a few other options. However, these dogs are a lot rarer and may be more expensive. A few of these options include:
- The Argentine Pila dog, a close relative of the Peruvian Inca Orchid. This hairless, affectionate, playful pup is prized for its soft skin.
- The Hairless Khala or Bolivian hairless dog is likely a distant relative of the Xoloitzcuintli and is incredibly loyal and protective of family.
- The Abyssinian Sand Terrier or African hairless dog is small or medium-sized with a sleek, athletic build. This dog occasionally has tufts of hair on the head and tail.
- The Ecuadorian hairless dog is very rare but likely a distant relative of the Peruvian Inca Orchid. This dog is a good hunter of small rodents as well.
- The Jonangi is a rare hairless dog from India trained as a hunter and herder. Jonangi dogs are usually wary of strangers but loyal to their family. They also often have a very short coat of fur that is nearly invisible.
- The Hairless Chihuahua is similar to the regular Chihuahua. These dogs develop strong bonds and usually have big personalities. Their skin is usually very tender and requires cautious care.
Choosing the Best Hairless Dog for You
If you’re looking for a dog with little to no hair, these are your best options. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to get a loyal, loving pet to keep you company and provide protection and great company during exercise!
If you have a hairless dog or any other type of dog and need help cleaning up their yard, be sure and check out our services! Our team would be happy to help you scoop your dog’s poop and get their yard cleaned up and ready to play in!