Border Terrier Vs American Hairless Terrier: which one makes a perfect choice? Most people don’t know, but they are very different breeds of dogs. This blog post is going to compare and contrast the two breeds, so you can decide which one is the best fit for your family. Keep reading to learn more!
History Of American Hairless Terriers
The American Hairless Terrier is a fairly new breed. The first American Hairless Terrier appeared in the 1970s. The origin of the breed can be traced back to Rat Terriers owned by Edwin and Willie Scott in Louisiana. One of their dogs, Josephine, gave birth to a hairless puppy named Tricki Woo.
The Scotts continued to breed hairless Rat Terriers and eventually developed them into their distinct breed known as the American Hairless Terrier.
These hairless dogs were recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2004 and by the American Kennel Club in 2016. Today, they are used as both companion animals and working dogs, excelling in activities such as agility and ratting.
This hairless breed is valued for its hypoallergenic qualities and is often chosen as a pet for individuals with dog allergies. With their spirited personalities and unique appearance, the American Hairless Terrier breed is becoming increasingly popular as a beloved member of many families.
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Differences Between Border Terrier And American Hairless Terriers
Considering adding a pup to the family? There are many different breeds of terriers out there, and it can sometimes be difficult to navigate the various characteristics. Two popular terrier breeds include the Border Terrier and the American Hairless Terrier. While both make for great companions, there are key differences between the two. We have listed a few of them here:
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Size Comparison
When comparing a Border Terrier and an American Hairless Terrier, one of the biggest differences is their size. The Border Terrier typically stands 10-12 inches tall and weighs around 11-15 pounds, while the American Hairless Terrier averages around 9-16 inches tall and weighs 7-16 pounds.
However, both breeds possess the same v-shaped ears and can both potentially carry the hairless gene. While the American Hairless Terrier was specifically bred to lack hair, some Border Terriers may also exhibit this trait. However, both breeds make loving and loyal companions and make excellent family pets.
Overall, size should not be the determining factor in choosing between these two terrier breeds. rather, potential owners should consider their lifestyle and preferences to find the right fit for their family.
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Temperament Comparison
When it comes to temperament, the Border Terrier and American Hairless Terrier have a few similarities and some key differences. Both breeds are confident, trainable, and affectionate towards their owners.
However, the Border Terrier may be more energetic and potentially bossy, while the American Hairless Terrier is known for its adaptability and friendliness toward strangers. In terms of activity level, the Border Terrier may require a bit more exercise and might do well in an active household, while the American Hairless Terrier can adapt to various levels of activity.
Overall, both breeds make great companion dogs, though their temperaments may be better suited to different lifestyles and personalities. As with any breed, it’s important to do research and meet with breeders before bringing a dog into your home.
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Coat
The coat is probably the most easily identifiable difference between a Border Terrier and an American Hairless Terrier. The Border Terrier has a thick, wiry coat that is typically black and tan, while the American Hairless Terrier has a thin, smooth coat that can be any color.
While both breeds shed, the Border Terrier’s coat sheds more than the American Hairless Terrier’s. The Border Terrier’s coat must also be groomed more regularly than the American Hairless Terrier’s.
Overall, the coat is probably the most noticeable difference between these two terrier breeds.
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Activity Level
When considering a new pet, it’s important to evaluate its activity level and determine if it suits your lifestyle. The Border Terrier is a high-energy breed, requiring daily exercise and a lot of mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive. On the other hand, the American Hairless Terrier has a lower activity level, being content with short walks or play sessions throughout the day. However, they still require regular physical activity to stay healthy and fit.
Ultimately, both of these breeds have different needs when it comes to exercise, so potential owners should carefully consider their activity level before making a decision on which breed is best for them.
Grooming Comparison
Both the Border Terrier and the American Hairless Terrier require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and looking their best. The Border Terrier’s coat needs to be brushed at least once a week, and more often during periods of heavy shedding. The American Hairless Terrier’s coat only needs to be brushed once or twice a month, unless they get particularly dirty.
Both breeds also need their ears cleaned regularly to prevent infection and should have their teeth brushed at least once a week.
Life Expectancy
When comparing the life expectancy of Border Terriers and American Hairless Terriers, Border Terriers tend to live longer. The average lifespan for a Border Terrier is 12-15 years, while the average for an American Hairless Terrier is 8-14 years.
This difference can potentially be attributed to the fact that Border Terriers were bred as hunting dogs and are commonly involved in agility trials, while American Hairless Terriers have a less active history and may not have as much physical endurance.
Of course, this is only one factor among many that can contribute to a dog’s lifespan, including genetics and health care. Overall, it’s important to remember that each dog may have a unique lifespan regardless of breed.
Best Food For Both Breeds
When it comes to the best food for both Border Terriers and American Hairless Terriers, there are a few things to consider. The first is that both breeds need a high-quality diet that provides balanced nutrition. They should also have access to clean water at all times.
In terms of specific food recommendations, either breed can benefit from a grain-free diet that includes quality protein sources like meat, poultry, and fish. Dogs also need healthy fats and a variety of fruits and vegetables as part of their diet.
Ultimately, the best food for your dog depends on their individual needs and preferences. Talk to your veterinarian about what would be best for your pet.
As you can see, there are quite a few key differences between Border Terriers and American Hairless Terriers. Do your research before deciding which breed is right for you and your family!
Wrapping Up
After reading this blog post, we hope you have a better understanding of the differences between Border Terriers and American Hairless Terriers. Both breeds make great pets, but it is important to do your research to ensure you are choosing the right dog for your lifestyle and family. If you are still undecided, why not visit your local shelter or rescue group and meet some of these wonderful dogs in person? You might just find your perfect match.
