Do you want to adopt a hairless dog breed? From Chinese crested to breeds native all over the world, hairless dogs really stand out from the crowd and make great companions – but there are a few things you’ll need to consider.
What makes a dog hairless?
“Beyond medical conditions such as alopecia, like many other physical traits, genetics will determine if a dog is hairless. It is likely that this trait was favored by breeders who desire this look and therefore chose to breed dogs that will continue to have these physical characteristics,” explains by Rover canine behaviorist, Adem Femi.
There are four hairless dog breeds that are officially recognized around the world by people like The dog clubhowever, there are a few other breeds that carry a dominant gene for hairlessness that are not widely recognized.
Are hairless dogs hypoallergenic?
According to Adem, “As far as hypoallergenic hairless dogs go, unfortunately they don’t solve the allergy problem for some owners. Those who experience adverse reactions when they come into contact with dogs may actually be allergic to dander. or a dog’s saliva rather than their hair, so opting for a hairless breed of dog may still lead you to seek antihistamines.”
How to groom and care for a hairless dog?
You might not have to worry about brushing a hairless dog like you would a lot of fur, but there are still things to consider when it comes to grooming them.
“A dog’s fur acts as an important barrier against the elements and can also help keep a dog warm and cool. protect,” says Adem.
They will generally need to be protected from sun, rain, and any potential irritants they might come into contact with, such as perfume on a human’s clothing or nettles while out for a walk. This is in addition to regular baths.
“Their skin will likely need to be moisturized regularly and they will also need to be protected with dog-friendly sunscreen if sun exposure cannot be avoided at all. Moist, cool, warm coats may be needed at different times. of the year,” suggests Adem.
So, in the warmer months, using a cooling vest or coat is essential to keep them comfortable in the heat. While, during the colder months, it is important to keep them warm, as their lack of insulating fur thickness can cause them to struggle to regulate their body heat.
Keep reading for the full list of hairless dog breeds…