Mike Clinton
Introduction: Who is the American Hairless Terrier?
The American Hairless Terrier (AHT) is a small breed of dog that originated in the United States. As the name suggests, the AHT is hairless, with a smooth, soft, and warm skin that makes it ideal for people with allergies. The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and good temperament, which make it a wonderful companion for families and individuals alike.
Historical Roots: The Ancestry of the AHT
The AHT was first developed in Louisiana in the 1970s, when a hairless puppy was born to a litter of Rat Terriers. The puppy, named Josephine, was found to be the result of a natural genetic mutation that caused hairlessness. Josephine was bred with her Rat Terrier sire, and the offspring were selectively bred to create the AHT breed. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2016, and it is still a relatively rare breed, with only a few thousand registered AHTs in the United States.
Early Development: The Birth of the AHT Breed Standard
The AHT was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1999. The UKC worked with a group of breeders to establish the breed standard, which outlines the physical and behavioral characteristics of the AHT. The standard includes information on the dog’s size, weight, coat, color, and temperament, among other things. The AHT is a small dog, weighing between 12 and 16 pounds, and standing between 12 and 16 inches tall at the shoulder. The breed is often described as active, alert, and friendly, with a strong drive to please its owner.
The Unique Feature: Hairlessness in AHTs
The most distinctive feature of the AHT is its lack of hair. The breed is born with a fine, downy coat that eventually falls out, leaving the dog with smooth, soft skin. The lack of hair makes the AHT a great choice for people with allergies, as it produces less dander and shedding than other breeds. However, the breed does require special care, as its skin can be more sensitive than that of other dogs. AHTs need to be protected from the sun and cold, and they may require regular moisturizing to keep their skin healthy.
Popularity and Recognition: AHTs in the United States
The AHT is still a relatively rare breed in the United States, with only a few thousand registered dogs. However, the breed has gained a dedicated following among dog lovers, particularly those with allergies. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2016, which should help to increase its popularity and visibility. AHTs are often used as therapy dogs, due to their friendly and affectionate nature, and they excel at obedience and agility competitions.
The AHT Club: The Breed’s Organized Movement
The American Hairless Terrier Club (AHTC) was founded in 1999 by a group of breeders and enthusiasts. The club is dedicated to promoting and preserving the breed, and it provides educational resources and support to owners and breeders. The AHTC also organizes events and shows, and it works closely with the UKC to maintain the breed standard and ensure the health and welfare of AHTs.
Crossing Borders: AHTs Beyond the US
While the AHT is still primarily a US breed, it has gained a following in other countries as well. The breed has been recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, and it’s increasingly popular in other parts of the world, including Europe and Asia. The AHT’s unique appearance and temperament have made it a popular choice for dog lovers around the globe.
The Controversy: Disputes on AHT Standardization
Despite its growing popularity, the AHT has also faced some controversy over its breed standard. Some breeders and enthusiasts argue that the standard is too restrictive, and that it doesn’t allow for enough variation in the breed. Others argue that the standard is necessary to maintain the health and welfare of AHTs. The controversy highlights the challenges of maintaining a breed that is still relatively new and relatively rare.
The Future: Prospects for the AHT Breed
The future looks bright for the AHT breed, with its popularity and visibility on the rise. While the breed may never be as popular as some of the more well-known breeds, it has a dedicated following of owners and enthusiasts who are committed to preserving and promoting the breed. As more people become aware of the AHT’s unique features and temperament, it’s likely that the breed will continue to grow in popularity and recognition.
Conclusion: The American Hairless Terrier Today
The American Hairless Terrier is a unique and fascinating breed of dog, with a rich history and a bright future. The breed’s hairlessness makes it a great choice for people with allergies, while its intelligence and good temperament make it a wonderful companion for families and individuals. As the breed continues to gain popularity and recognition, it’s clear that the AHT is here to stay. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the breed or just learning about it for the first time, the AHT is definitely a breed to watch.