Hairless Hypoallergenic Dogs – A Unique Alternative For Dog-Loving Allergy Sufferers

Called non-shedding dogs, there are many dog breeds that slough off less dog hair and dander and present less risk to people who have allergies. Many of them have long, silky coats appropriate for the show world. But if you want a dog that is both non-shedding AND unique, you might consider shopping for a hairless hypoallergenic dog.

While it’s common to assume that these dogs are all tiny, barking pests, you’ll find a range of sizes and temperaments in the hairless hypoallergenic dog category. True, there are more small hairless hypoallergenic dogs than larger sizes. But you can find a great medium-sized hairless hypoallergenic dog without too much work.

Four medium-sized hairless hypoallergenic dogs include the Mexican Hairless (also Xoloitzcuintie or Xolo), the American Hairless Terrier, the hairless Chinese Crested, and the Peruvian Inca Orchid (called the PIO). You may find it necessary to do your search for breeders online, as these hairless hypoallergenic dogs are relatively rare.

You may have a harder time finding a Mexican Hairless because there are few breeders worldwide. The Xolo has a short coat that doesn’t need a lot of brushing or combing because its hair is so short. You won’t have to worry about matting either since there’s nothing to matt or tangle. You can find a range of sizes in the Mexican Hairless breed.

The popular American Hairless Terrier is not a true hairless dog, although it does have a short coat requiring little grooming. The first of this breed was an accident! Appearing in 1972 from nowhere in a litter of Rat Terriers, its Louisiana owners were able to reproduce the new hairless variety and have been doing so since the early 1980s. Like its Terrier cousins, the American Hairless is a friendly, outgoing, small husky dog who lives happily in a small apartment or townhome.

The Chinese Crested is available in two distinct varieties: the truly hairless and the Powder Puff. The hairless Chinese Crested still has shocks of hair on its head, tail, and feet that need regular grooming. The Powder Puff variety and has long fine hair resembling human hair. Both classified as hypoallergenic dogs due to their limited shedding.
The Peruvian Hairless, or PIO, is a hairless dog. It is medium-sized, intelligent, and friendly. Being a bit more self-willed than other dogs, the PIO is not for people without experience in training and disciplining dogs. They need to be socialized early and should be trained in obedience.

Hairless hypoallergenic dogs generally need regular exercise, generous attention, and close companionship with their owners and family. Because they don’t have the dog hair that normally protects the skin, they need extra protection outdoors to prevent sunburn and dry skin problems. They are more susceptible to dry skin rashes and acne, so you may find yourself using special skin creams to treat pain and itches associated with skin irritations and diseases.

Due to the limited number of hairless hypoallergenic dog breeders, you’ll probably want to start your search on the internet. Be sure to check your breeder’s credentials and references. Not all breeders of hairless hypoallergenic dogs are created equal. Be sure the breeder you choose has a passion for the dogs, rather than the money he gets.

It’s a good idea to visit the breeder before selecting a dog from them. Inspect their facilities and spend some time with them to learn about their views and attitudes towards their dogs. If you know someone who already has a hairless hypoallergenic dog, you might want to spend some time with their pet to get a feel for what life will be like with this type of pet.

Owning a dog is a commitment of time and energy that repays you with tons of love and companionship. If you have problems with allergies to dog hair, choosing a hairless hypoallergenic dog may be the perfect solution. Take time to do the research to identify the breed that will make a perfect companion for you and your family. Accept the fact that you’ll be grooming and bathing your new hairless hypoallergenic dog, and enjoy your new companion for years to come!

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