American Hairless Terrier Dog Breed information

     

The American Hairless Terrier is a breed of dog that was formerly considered a variant of Rat Terrier. As of January 1, 2004 the United Kennel Club deemed the AHT a separate terrier breed.

History

Reputedly, the breed started when one hairless puppy appeared in one Rat Terrier litter in the state of Louisiana, United States, in 1972. Edwin and Willie Scott, the owners, liked the dog's look and temperament, and upon maturity bred her hoping to reproduce the hairless quality. They were eventually successful; a litter produced in 1981 provided the foundation stock of the breed.

Recognition

The UKC is the only governing body that recognizes the breed. While this organization is a national body, the breed is waiting for an international official breakthrough. In 1998 the breed gained recognition as the American Hairless Terrier by the American Rare Breeds Association and the National Rat Terrier Club. Canada was the first country outside the US to gain recognition, by Canadian Rarities in 1999. In 1999 the breed was recognized as Rat Terrier, Hairless Variety by the UKC.

The breed continues to grow internationally, with several dedicated breeders diligently working together to promote and protect the breed. In the US the American Hairless Terrier Association is the UKC provisional breed club. Other National Breed Clubs around the world include the Canadian American Hairless Terrier Association, the Japanese Hairless American Terrier Club, and in Europe the Finnish American Hairless Terriers Club. These clubs continue to work towards recognition by their national governing organizations and the FCI.