American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is described by the AKC as alert, curious, energetic, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 12-16 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12-28 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 14–16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Curious / Energetic [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 108 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The American Hairless Terrier has only moderate exercise needs. They have to go outside several times a day, of course, but brief daily sessions in a fenced-in yard or on regular walks will generally be all they require. They enjoy activity but are also quite happy to curl up on the couch next to their owner. [1]
Grooming
The American Hairless Terrier actually comes in two varieties: coated and hairless. For either type, grooming needs are minimal. For the hairless variety, there is little maintenance involved other than keeping the ears clean and making sure the dog is protected from sunburn. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Responsible breeders screen for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, cardiac conditions, luxating patella (a dislocated kneecap similar to what is called a 'trick knee' in humans), and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a hip condition that can be corrected with surgery. Skin problems are quite rare in the breed. As with all breeds, an American Hairless Terrier's ears should be checked regularly to remove foreign matter and avoid a buildup of wax, and the teeth should be brushed regularly. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the American Hairless Terrier in 2016. [1]
- It ranked No. 108 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “AHT.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
Common questions
How long do American Hairless Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 14-16 years.
How big does a American Hairless Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 12-16 inches and weight 12-28 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a American Hairless Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the American Hairless Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.