The American Hairless Terrier is great for the allergy sufferer: as this dog breed has no hair it is hypoallergenic to most people. I myself have allergy problems, including asthma, eczema and pet allergies. The main reactions I have, or indeed any allergy sufferer, to a dog is the dander, etc trapped in it’s coat. My American Hairless Terriers have been the answer to both my allergy problems and my desire to be a dog owner. The American Hairless Terrier is great for the allergy sufferer: as this dog breed has no hair it is hypoallergenic to most people. I have allergies to dog hair, but these are minimal with my American Hairless Terriers. I can’t be in the same room as coated dogs for too long before I have breathing problems, rashes, sneezing fits and swollen itchy eyes. Cats are even worse for me. I did have slight allergic reactions to Neo during the first week of coming to live with me, but once I got used to him being around my allergies returned to normal for me. Everyone is different however, some people are hypersensitive and allergies could get worse with time. shower twice a day to keep skin irritations down to a minimum and cleaning the house is an every day necessity for me. Along with dander, the proteins from saliva, urine and other body secretions are major sources of dog allergens. If these are left to dry and become airborne they will cause further problems. In the past I tried to live with a poodle but still had allergic reactions. I also tried a Chinese Crested dog, but still I had bad enough allergic reactions that he had to be re-homed. He is now with my friend on a lovely big farm. No dog breed can be hypoallergenic, you may have some kind of reaction, so just keep that in mind, it’s just how bad your allergic reactions are, and whether or not you can put up with the effects on your health. You may think it will be ok to just go and get an American Hairless Terrier, but after a while you may think that isn’t really worth making yourself ill for, so think carefully before you decide. It’s best you try some allergy trials beforehand if you can. American Hairless Terriers produce the same amount of lubricating skin oil as coated dogs, but with no coat to disperse the oil, it serves another import purpose for those with allergies. Between baths, the oil the dog produces stays on the surface of the skin, and traps the dander that all skin produces. This keeps the dander out of the environment, and making it less of a source of allergen. If you too are an allergy sufferer, and are thinking about getting an American Hairless Terrier, then you may need to take the following precautions to reduce the amount of allergen build up in your home, and reduce your allergic reactions. You may need to do all of these jobs at least one a week. Your allergies could be more of a problem if you don’t keep up with the regular routines. 1. VACUUM REGULARLY
Regularly vacuum your floors, at least every few days, every day is best. Wipe solid floors over with a damp sponge or cloth and be careful with which detergent you use as some cleaning products can burn your dog’s feet. I’ve even found some cleaning products will make your dog want to wee on the floor. Carpets are not a good idea as they hold grease and dander even after vacuuming. Wooden or ceramic floorings are best; if you have wooden flooring make sure the gaps are filled so the dead skin cells can’t fall between the boards to build up and cause problems. With wooden flooring I would say that it does really need to be protected well, if your dog pees on the floor it could soak into it and cause you a reaction. 2. SOFT FURNISHINGS
Keep soft furnishings to a bare minimum: pillows, curtains, blankets will hold dander. If possible, freeze them in a freezer for 10mins to kill of some of the allergens, also wash them every few days. Leather furniture is best as there is less dander build up. 3. KEEP YOUR DOGS OUT OF THE BEDROOM
We spend around a third of our life in the bedroom. So it is even more important that we make this a dander free zone. Experts say that if you can breathe "pure" air for 8 to 10 hours each night, you can probably tolerate more exposure to allergenic substances during the day. Keep your bedroom as free of allergen catchers as possible: the furniture clean and simple; pictures or hanging decorations at a bare minimum; no magazines or newspapers. Nothing under under the bed. No clutter. No bulky drapes. No carpeting, especially deep pile or loop. The more washable surfaces, the better. Because dead skin sticks to clothes, you should undress outside the bedroom. It is also useful to take a shower and either wash or thoroughly brush your hair before going to bed. Under no circumstances are dogs to go into bedrooms. Keep the bedroom doors closed, or put baby gates up, to stop them getting in. 4. BATHE YOUR DOG REGULARLY
Bathe your dog 2-3 times a week or when necessary. The American Hairless Terrier appears to be more tolerant, to being bathed regularly, but keep an eye on their skin and make sure that it does not dry out from to much bathing. 5. NO DOGS ON THE FURNITURE
Train your dog to keep off the furniture. 6. KEEP BEDDING CLEAN
Wash your dog’s bedding at least once a week, more is better. 7. KEEP YOUR HOME WELL VENTILATED
Keep all rooms well ventilated and try air filters in the room’s you spend most time in. Air filters help remove the smallest of airborne particles including pollen, dust, animal hairs, mites, smoke and odours. The HEPA filter is one such filter, originally developed for use in clinical applications and is a breath of fresh air for allergy sufferers. It filters out 99. 97% of particles >0. 3 micrometres. This air purifier uses a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter in association with an active carbon filter to remove the smallest of airborne particles including pollen, dust, animal hairs, mites, smoke and odors. 8. KEEP YOUR DOGS CLOTHES CLEAN
If your dog wears a coat throughtout the day, it’s a must to have a fresh one daily. 9. ANTI-HISTAMINE
For yourself you can take some anti-histamine, or some medication from your doctor to reduce your allergies, but keep in mind they don’t always work too well. 10. KEEP YOUR DOGS TOYS CLEAN
Train your dog not to lick you as, it could cause a reaction. Dried saliva can also be a problem for you as it can become airborne, so wash your dogs toys and keep them clean. If you need any further information just drop me a line or message, I will answer any questions on allergies and the breed American Hairless Terriers, IM glad to help out. Picture below is Human Allergy Reaction dogs fur dander
10 mins after contact with a normal Coated dog with fur dander
Eye at Normal stage
Originally posted at 3:09PM, 18 March 2008 PDT
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Table of Contents
What does Hypoallergenic Mean?
American Hairless Terrier hypoallergenic dogs are low maintenance. Lack of hair means that you won’t have to worry about coat brushing or trimming. However, expert groomers recommend bathing your AHT dog at least once a week, with a moisturizing dog shampoo. This will not only keep their skin healthy but will also keep dander minimal.
Do American Hairless Terriers shed?
Dogs that experience shedding are dogs that have hair, the American hairless terriers like the name entails are hairless dogs. No, the dog does not shed. You can have them anywhere in the home without worrying about hairs littering around the place.
Are American Hairless Terriers good apartment dogs?
The American Hairless Terrier first originated in Louisiana in 1972, born from a litter of Rat Terriers. Louisiana is a warm humid state. American Hairless Terriers have always been great pets. They are smart, playful and affectionate animals. The American Hairless Terriers are great companions to have in a home. They lovable and playful, but can also be very territorial. It is very easy to train an American Hairless Terrier. They are intelligent dogs. Since American Hairless Terriers do not have any hair they are one the most hypoallergenic dogs you can get so they would be perfect for people with allergies. American Hairless Terriers are small to medium in build and very muscular. They would be a great fit for a pet, they only need moderate exercise daily so you could play with them in your backyard. Since the American Hairless Terrier was founded in 1972 it isn't that old of a breed so they have always consumed dry dog food.
Do Labradors Cause Allergies?
One of the most common afflictions of all dogs, the American Hairless Terrier can be prone to itchy skin and allergies. Due to their lack of fur, signs are obvious at an early stage, meaning veterinary treatment can be sought in the beginning of the disease process.
How to prevent allergies
Groom your American Hairless Terrier
Smith has worked as a dog groomer for 25 years and said she likes the low maintenance of the American hairless terrier. She got into showing her dog because she thought Kane was an especially good representation of the breed. She feeds him a raw diet and bikes with him for conditioning training. Kane competes in shows nearly every weekend, Smith said.
Cleaning
American hairless terriers either have a minimal coat or no hair at all, so you will spend very little time grooming this dog. If you are going to take your dog outside, then apply sunscreen. You should also clean its ears and trim its toenails regularly.
Designate Dog-Free Zones
Coat
American Hairless Terriers are intelligent, alert, playful and loving dogs. Very inquisitive and lively. This affectionate dog makes an excellent companion for anyone. They are good with children, especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood. The American Hairless Terrier, unlike other dog breeds, will break out in a sweat when hot or scared. They are fairly territorial, and like all dogs, need a human who understands how to be his leader. For the most part friendly with strangers. AHTs make good watchdogs. They are not good swimmers and need to be closely monitored. These dogs are quick and very playful. The temperament of these dogs is pure terrier. They have the lively, feisty, fearless nature found in the best of terriers. Ratting cannot be recommended, due to the increased vulnerability brought on by the lack of a protective coat. This breed seems to train easily and are eager to please. Small dogs have the tendency to lack in human leadership. Be sure you are this dog’s true pack leader in order to curb any negative behaviors.