The world contains hairless dogs which represent some of the most distinctive dog breeds. These dog breeds lack fur because they possess either complete hairlessness or minimal amounts of hair. The number of UK families who show interest in these unusual dog breeds continues to rise. People seek these dogs because they produce minimal pet hair and because they find their historical value as Aztec treasures fascinating. The experience of caring for a hairless dog differs substantially from what it takes to care for typical dog breeds. The skin of hairless dogs needs protection from cold temperatures and sunlight exposure while their owners must bathe them frequently to maintain healthy skin. This guide presents information about the five most well-known hairless dog breeds and their specific requirements for care.
The Most 5 Popular Hairless Dog Breeds
1. Chinese Crested Dog
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Height: 28–33 cm (11–13 in)
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Weight: 4–6 kg (9–13 lbs)
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Lifespan: 12–14 years
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Personality: Playful, affectionate, thrives as a lap dog; sensitive to family moods.
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Recognition: Fully recognised by The Kennel Club in the UK.
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Varieties: Two types from the same litter – Hairless (bare skin with tufts of hair) and Powderpuff (coated variety).
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Colours: Wide range including black, slate, cream, apricot, chocolate.
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Health problems: Can be prone to dental issues, skin dryness, and risk of sunburn due to exposed skin. Regular baths keep the skin clean and healthy.
2. Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
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Height:
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Miniature: 25–35 cm (10–14 in)
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Intermediate: 36–45 cm (14–18 in)
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Standard: 46–60 cm (18–23 in)
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Weight: 4–25 kg (9–55 lbs), depending on size.
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Personality: Calm, loyal, protective; often described as a dignified ancient dog breed. Moderate exercise needs.
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Recognition: Listed by The Kennel Club (Imported Breed Register) in all three sizes. Considered the national dog of Mexico.
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Colours: Black, slate, bronze, liver, and other solid shades.
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Health problems: Generally healthy but, like other hairless dog breeds, may face skin issues such as acne or dryness; sensitive to cold weather.
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History: Revered as an ancient Aztec dog, believed to have healing powers in traditional culture.
3. American Hairless Terrier
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Height: 30–46 cm (12–18 in)
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Weight: 5–12 kg (12–26 lbs)
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Lifespan: 14–18 years
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Personality: Energetic, smart, curious; higher prey drive due to its Rat Terrier ancestry. Great for active families.
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Recognition: Officially recognised by the American Kennel Club. Can be registered in the UK through the KC’s overseas registration system.
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Colours: Comes in a wide variety including black, blue, red, sable, brindle, and combinations.
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Health problems: Generally robust; may face skin allergies or irritation due to bare skin; needs regular baths to keep skin clean.
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Origin: Developed from a hairless pup born in a Rat Terrier litter in Louisiana, USA, in the 1970s.
4. Peruvian Inca Orchid (Peruvian Hairless Dog)
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Height: Small: 25–40 cm (10–16 in); Medium: 41–50 cm (16–20 in); Large: 51–65 cm (20–26 in)
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Weight: 4–25 kg (9–55 lbs) depending on size
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Lifespan: 11–14 years
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Personality: Gentle, affectionate with family, can be reserved with strangers.
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Recognition: Recognised internationally by the FCI under Standard No. 310. In the UK, it may be registered under The Kennel Club’s Imported Breed Register.
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Colours: Solid shades like black, brown, grey, or mottled; both hairless and coated varieties may occur.
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Health problems: Needs regular baths to keep skin clean; sensitive to cold weather; may face dental issues in some lines.
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History: Also called the Peruvian Inca Orchid, this ancient breed has roots in pre-Inca cultures. Some records link them to households that prized dogs with a sleek body and bare skin as noble companions.
The Peruvian Inca is not common in Britain, but enthusiasts value it for its beauty and history. Owners should be ready for special grooming routines and extra layers in colder UK months.
5. Argentine Pila Dog
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Height: 25–45 cm (10–18 in), depending on variety
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Weight: 5–15 kg (11–33 lbs)
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Lifespan: 12–14 years
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Personality: Friendly, lively, and often compared with the Chinese Crested in temperament.
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Recognition: Not widely recognised by UK or US kennel clubs; mainly found in South America, especially Argentina. Considered a rare breed in Europe.
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Colours: Dark grey, black, brown, and mottled. Most are completely hairless, though some coated pups may appear in the same litter.
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Health problems: As with other hairless dog breeds, sensitive to sunburn, skin dryness, and cold. Needs regular baths and moisturising to keep skin healthy.
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History: A true heritage dog of Argentina, valued locally but still little-known abroad.
The Argentine Pila Dog is a challenge to find in the UK. Anyone interested should research carefully, work with responsible breeders, and understand import requirements under The Kennel Club’s overseas registration system.
Care for Hairless Dogs in the UK
Caring for a hairless dog is different from looking after other dog breeds. Without fur, their bare skin needs more protection:
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Skin care: These breeds often need regular baths to keep their skin clean and avoid blocked pores. Gentle shampoo and vet-approved moisturiser can help maintain skin healthy.
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Sun protection: In summer, use a pet-safe sunscreen. The PDSA advises SPF 30+ for pets at risk of sunburn
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Cold weather: Hairless dog breeds lose body heat quickly. In the UK, where damp and chilly days are common, warm dog jumpers and cosy dog bed are essential.
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Allergies: While often advertised as hypoallergenic dogs, peer-reviewed studies show that no breed is fully allergy-free. Still, some allergy sufferers prefer hairless dogs because there’s less pet hair around the home.
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Diet and health: Like all pets, balanced nutrition supports healthy skin, remember to prepare fresh water for your dog every day. Avoid harsh fabrics that might scratch their skin.
What Types Of Families Are Hairless Dogs Ideal For?
Not every home is suited for a hairless dog. These are some family types that fit best:
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Allergy-aware households: While not fully hypoallergenic, many find it easier to manage allergies with dogs that have very little hair. Cleaning routines and air filters can help.
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Indoor-focused families: Hairless breeds dislike cold weather, so they need homes that keep them mostly indoors. Families who enjoy being at home with their pets are ideal.
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Families with older children: The dog’s skin is delicate. Rough play can lead to scratches, so these breeds do better with gentle handling.
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Owners with time for care: These dogs need regular baths, moisturiser, and sun cream. If you like a steady grooming routine, they can be a good match.
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Experienced owners for rare breeds: Some, like the Mexican Hairless Dog or Peruvian Inca Orchid, are ancient breeds that need confident training and socialisation.
Families who want a close, loyal companion and are happy to meet the extra care needs will find hairless dog breeds to be rewarding, unique pets.
Buying or Rehoming in the UK
Anyone in the UK considering a hairless dog breed should start with responsible buying or rehoming:
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Recognition & registration: Always check if the breed is recognised by The Kennel Club. Some, like the Chinese Crested, are common; others, like the Xoloitzcuintli, are on the Imported Breed Register.
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Imported breeds: For rare options such as the Peruvian Inca Orchid or Argentine Pila Dog, the KC has a guide on overseas registration.
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Legal checks: In England, breeding dogs requires a licence from the local council. Owners also have a legal duty of care under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
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Adoption: Sometimes hairless dogs, especially Chinese Crested dogs, appear in UK rescue centres. Rehoming is a great way to help a dog in need.
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Health assurance: Ask breeders for health checks, especially for skin and dental issues that some hairless dog breeds face.
By following these steps, UK buyers avoid scams, support ethical breeding, and ensure their new pup has the best start.
FAQs
What dog breed is hairless?
Several breeds are considered hairless dog breeds. The most well-known include the Chinese Crested Dog, the Mexican Hairless Dog (Xoloitzcuintli), the American Hairless Terrier, the Peruvian Inca Orchid, and the Argentine Pila Dog. Rare mentions like the Ecuadorian Hairless Dog, African Hairless Dog, or the extinct Abyssinian Sand Terrier also appear in breed history records.
Do Xolos dogs still exist?
Yes. The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is very much alive today. It is recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK and by the American Kennel Club in the US. It is even shown at Crufts as an imported breed.
Are Xolos good pets?
Yes, for the right family. Xolos are known for being calm, loyal, and protective. They bond closely with humans, making them wonderful companions. However, they need extra care for their bare skin and may not suit households that spend a lot of time outdoors in cold, damp weather.
Conclusion
The decision to own a hairless dog requires more than visual appeal because these dogs need proper care and affection. The right family will discover that hairless dogs make unforgettable pets.
