A dog’s coat of fur or hair coverage is one of the animal’s most notable traits. Irrespective of the type of fur (straight, curly, thin, or dense) their coat helps them stand out. However, a dog does not need to have fur to stand out in a different manner. Several dog breeds are hairless, and while they are relatively rare, the breeds carry a gene that causes them to have very little hair or none on their bodies at all. Keep reading till the end to discover our list of the TOP 10 Best Hairless Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers.
Some of these hairless dog breeds have very distinct origins while others are related to each other. Much like any other dog, simply being hairless by no means indicates the type of personality or appearance the dog will possess. Most of the breeds do, however, tend to be affectionate with their humans.
It would be sensible to think that these breeds are great because unlike most others they won’t shed all over the place, they actually still require grooming to keep healthy skin. They need regular baths, as well as having any dry skin treated with dog-safe moisturizer. Without hair or fur, these breeds also need additional protection for their skin to keep them warm in cold weather and protect them from getting sunburnt in direct sunlight.
TOP 10 Best Hairless Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers
Let’s look at the 10 best hairless dog breeds in the world.
1. American Hairless Terrier dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | — |
| Height: | 12 to 16 inches |
| Weight: | 12 to 16 pounds |
| Life Span: | 14 to 16 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Small and muscular body; coat colors include black, chocolate, red, apricot, and various combinations; can be hairless or have a very short coat |
| Price: | $800 to $1,500 |
In the 1970s, breeders started selectively breeding rat terriers, specifically for their hairless coats. The American hairless terrier is a descendant of the rat terrier, though some are still born with a light coat, they also generally share the trait of being hairless dogs. As the name of their predecessor implies, this breed has a high drive for hunting small rodents.
Outside of that, the American hairless terrier makes a great family dog, especially for those who are willing to let them be active and playful. The dogs are smart and loyal, making them great friends and relatively easy to train.
2. Chinese Crested dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Toy dog |
| Height: | 11 to 13 inches |
| Weight: | 8 to 12 pounds |
| Life Span: | 13 to 15 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Can be hairless except for the head, tail, and feet or fully coated; small and slender body; spotted pink skin with feathery white hair |
| Price: | $1,200 to $2,200 |
There are two variants of the Chinese Crested dog. One is the hairless version, with only some fluffy fur tufts on their paws, tail, head, and ears, with the amount varying between individual dogs. The other is the powderpuff variety, which possesses a soft, lengthy double coat that covers its entire body. The interesting thing is, that both kinds can be born in the same litter. They are energetic and playful dogs, but they can be extremely cuddly and loving.
3. Xoloitzcuintli dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Foundation Stock Service Program |
| Height: | 10 to 14 inches (toy); 14 to 18 inches (miniature); 18 to 23 inches (standard) |
| Weight: | 10 to 15 pounds (toy); 15 to 30 pounds (miniature); 30 to 55 pounds (standard) |
| Life Span: | 12 to 15 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Can be completely hairless or have a short, flat coat; muscular, rectangular body; wrinkled forehead |
| Price: | $2000 to $4000 |
Often referred to as the Mexican hairless dog, the Xoloitzcuintli actually come in short-coated and hairless variations, with both types being low-maintenance animals in terms of grooming. Their exposed skin to the elements does necessitate skin protection measures, however. The Xoloitzcuintli, of Xolo for short, is an ancient breed dating back thousands of years, as far back as the Aztec civilization. They make excellent watchdogs due to their alert nature and fierce loyalty. They are calm by nature, but when the situation calls for it, can be very protective.
4. Peruvian Inca Orchid dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Foundation Stock Service Program |
| Height: | 9.75 to 15.75 inches (small); 15.75 to 19.75 inches (medium); 19.75 to 25.75 inches (large) |
| Weight: | 8.5 to 17.5 pounds (small); 17.5 to 26.5 pounds (medium); 26.5 to 55 pounds (large) |
| Life Span: | 12 to 14 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Long, lean body; skin color varies but can include black, brown, gray, pink, tan, and white; low tail; smooth skin |
| Price: | $2,000 to $4,000 |
The breed of the Peruvian Inca Orchid, also known as the Peruvian hairless, originated in ancient Peru where historians believe it was regarded as a companion animal. This breed is protective of its owners, though quite affectionate with the people they know and trust. They have a lot of energy so this breed needs lots of space to run around and exercise to get the energy out in a healthy way. These dogs do struggle with separation anxiety when left alone. While most Peruvian Inca Orchids have no hair on their bodies, some of them have patches on their paws, head, and the tip of their tails.
5. Argentine Pila Dog dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | —- |
| Height: | 10 to 14 inches (small); 14 to 18 inches (medium); 18 to 25 inches (large) |
| Weight: | 9 to 18 pounds (small); 18 to 25 pounds (medium); 25 to 55 pounds (large) |
| Life Span: | 8 to 14 year |
| Physical Characteristics: | Tail curled forward; relatively short body; pointed ears; narrow muzzle; almond eyes; skin color varies and can include spotted or piebald markings |
| Price: | $1500 to $2500 |
The Argentine Pila dog is a close relative of the Peruvian Inca Orchid, also entirely hairless, but with softer skin. The breed can vary by size, typically delineated by three size variations. As their name implies, they are mostly found in Argentina. These dogs are playful, affectionate, and adjust more easily to new environments than many other breeds. Like their Peruvian brethren, the Argentine Pila dogs can also sometimes have patches of fur on their tails and heads.
6. Abyssinian Sand Terrier dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | TERRIER DOGS |
| Height: | 15.5 to 20.5 inches |
| Weight: | 21 to 39 pounds |
| Life Span: | 12 to 15 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Colors include black, gray, bronze, sand; skin can have mottled markings; hairless except for tufts of hair on head and tail; bat-like ears; long muzzle; sleek body |
| Price: | — |
The Abyssian Sand Terrier is the perfect canine companion for anyone who wants a calmly tempered dog while being an exercise companion, this breed, also known as the African hairless dog, makes a great choice. The dog has a sleek body and ranges in size from small to moderate, with some of the dogs of the rare breed being fully hairless, while others have small hair tufts on their heads and tips of their tails.
7. Hairless Khala dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | – |
| Height: | 14 to 17 inches (medium); 17 to 20 inches (large) |
| Weight: | 14 to 30 pounds (medium); 18 to 20 pounds (large) |
| Life Span: | 10 to 12 yrs |
| Physical Characteristics: | Some are short-legged while others have longer legs; dark gray skin; tufts of white hair on head |
| Price: | $600 to $3000 |
Another rare hairless dog breed is the Bolivian Hairless dog or the Hairless Khala. Originating in Bolivia, this breed likely shares an ancestor with the Xoloitzcuintli, so there is a notable resemblance between the two. These dogs are extremely loyal to their owners and can get very defensive, which means that they require consistent training to learn that not everyone outside their household is a threat to their humans. Like many other hairless breeds on this list, the Hairless Khala can either be entirely devoid of hair or have small tufts on parts of its body, primarily on its head.
8. Jonangi dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | – |
| Height: | 17 to 21 inches |
| Weight: | 28 to 48 pounds |
| Life Span: | 10 to 14 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Colors vary but can include fawn, black, white, and chocolate; can have piebald markings; pricked ears; curled tail; short muzzle; fox-like features; wrinkled forehead |
| Price: | $1000 to $3000 |
India’s contribution to the hairless dogs’ list is the Jonangi, a rare dog breed that was primarily bred as a hunter and herder. These animals make fantastic family pets, being extremely friendly to those in their household, but do tend to be quite wary of strangers. They can also be an intimidating sight for some unfamiliar with the dog, as they have the muscular build and disposition of a bull terrier. This breed also does not bark, but rather elicits a distinctive yodel. While the Jonangi is referred to as “hairless,” they technically have a nearly invisible smooth, very short coat that covers their bodies.
9. Ecuadorian Hairless Dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | – |
| Height: | 15 to 18 inches |
| Weight: | 17 to 25 pounds |
| Life Span: | 12 to 14 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Almost no hair on body and head except for a small amount on top of the head; long legs; no premolar teeth |
| Price: | $400 to $1,200 |
A likely relative of the Peruvian Inca Orchid, the Ecuadorian Hairless dog is another ancient breed, though this one, as its namesake foretells, is rooted in Ecuador. Exceptionally rare in the modern day, this breeds sports very minimal hair on their bodies, most of it on its head. These dogs have a strong hunting drive, as they were bred for capturing small rodents, and they have a decent amount of energy. That said, this breed loves its people and loves nothing more than cuddling up next to them for affection.
10. Hairless Chihuahua dog breed
| Dog Breed Group: | Toy dog |
| Height: | 6 to 9 inches |
| Weight: | 2 to 6 pounds |
| Life Span: | 7 to 12 years |
| Physical Characteristics: | Petite frame; big eyes; large upright ears; short muzzle; slender legs |
| Price: | $375 to $2,420 |
The Hairless Chihuahua has very little difference from their coated counterparts, save for a genetic defect that makes them lack hair. In other regards, they are similar to standard Chihuahuas, in terms of having big personalities for little dogs, being territorial, and being very affectionate with their humans. Due to their lack of hair, these animals are prone to getting cold easily. In addition to that, they are also prone to various skin issues, so it is important to monitor them for any potential problems.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, hairless dog breeds are an excellent option for people who suffer from allergies but still want to experience the joy of owning a dog. These unique breeds offer many advantages, including low shedding, hypoallergenic qualities, and easy grooming. From the elegant Chinese Crested to the charming Xoloitzcuintli, these hairless breeds come in various shapes and sizes and are sure to steal your heart. Consider adopting a hairless dog today and experience the joys of dog ownership without the allergy troubles!
Since you have finished reading this amazing article of the TOP 10 Best Hairless Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers, we suggest to you to check this one: TOP 10 Best Dog Breeds For Cold Weather & Snow
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are hairless dogs hypoallergenic?
Hairless dogs, such as the Xoloitzcuintli and Chinese Crested breeds, are often hypoallergenic because they lack the hair that can trap dander and other allergens. However, it’s important to note that all dogs produce allergens, including hairless breeds, and people with severe allergies may still have a reaction to them. Other factors, such as saliva and urine, can also cause allergies in some people.
How much is a Mexican hairless dog?
The price of a Mexican Hairless Dog, also known as a Xoloitzcuintli, can vary depending on factors such as the dog’s age, pedigree, and location. On average, a Xoloitzcuintli puppy can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, with some high-end breeders charging even more. Adult dogs or rescue dogs may be less expensive.
Are there hairless dogs?
Yes, several breeds of hairless dogs, including the Xoloitzcuintli, Chinese Crested, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and American Hairless Terrier. These breeds lack a coat of fur due to a genetic mutation and may have some hair on certain parts of their body, such as their heads, tails, and feet.
Hi, my name is Idammah, and I am a huge animal lover! I have always had a special place in my heart for pets, especially cats. I currently have a rescue cat named Simba, who has brought so much joy and love into my life. In my free time, you can find me playing with my cats or watching some animal documentaries. When not spending time with my cat, I enjoy writing about my experiences as a pet owner and sharing helpful tips and advice with other pet lovers. I hope to connect with other pet enthusiasts and share our love for animals through this blog.
