Not only will these hairless dog breeds keep your home free of tumbleweeds of fur and possibly help those allergic to dogs—most non-shedding breeds are also hypoallergenic dogs—but their distinct appearances evoke an exotic sense of prestige and rarity, as they stand out from some of the most popular dog breeds.
These dogs with no hair are some of the world’s rarest dogs, thanks to their attention-getting appearances, which also makes them some of the most costly pets if you can locate them at all.
Even though they are hairless and do not require brushing, these dogs are not exactly low-maintenance. They still require bathing and skin and nail care on a regular basis.
#1 Chinese crested
With feathery wisps on their head and feet and a hairless body, Chinese cresteds provide the best of both hair worlds. These cosy companion dogs, dubbed “ultra-affectionate” companion dogs by the American Kennel Club (AKC), will stay right by your side.
Their pink speckled skin is easily inflamed, as it is with most hairless pets, but a daily application of breed-specific dog sunscreen and topicals will keep this Chinese dog breed safe.
#2 American hairless terrier
The American hairless terrier, which is closely related to the rat terrier, is energetic, quick-witted, and curious. This is the only hairless dog breed native to the United States, according to the AKC.
These bald dogs are little but tenacious, and their parents must be cautious about both preventing sun exposure in the summer and keeping their pups sheltered in the winter. A warm dog coat can be beneficial.
#3 Mexican hairless (Xoloitzcuintli)
These hairless beauties are the most ancient breed on the list: According to the AKC, Mexican hairless dogs have been around for over 3,000 years. These cool and intelligent toy dogs have smooth, hairless skin and are thought to represent the ancient Aztec god’s dog.
Unlike other hairless dogs, they have low-maintenance hair and skin, requiring only frequent bathing and nail clipping to keep odours at bay, comparable to fluffy dog breeds. If hairless dogs aren’t your thing, have a look at these amazing toy dog types that will make you swoon.
#4 Peruvian Inca Orchid
This regal and faithful dog breed from Peru is one of the taller hairless dog varieties, with spotted and unspotted skin of practically any colour. PICs are agile hunters and protective watchdogs who are very affectionate towards their owners.
They’re also extremely rare, with no place on the AKC’s list of the 197 most popular recognised breeds. Because they are extremely impossible to find in the United States, nothing is known about this strange hairless toy breed, yet they are popular pets in South America. Only a smidgeon of hair around the whiskered mouths of these bare-skinned dogs.
#5 Argentine Pilas
Argentine Pilas are known for being energetic and affectionate friends, but they are high-maintenance pets due to their very sensitive hairless skin, which necessitates constant monitoring.
Because they are extremely impossible to find in the United States, nothing is known about this strange hairless toy breed, yet they are popular pets in South America. Only a smidgeon of hair around the whiskered mouths of these bare-skinned dogs.
Argentine Pilas are known for being energetic and affectionate friends, but they are high-maintenance pets due to their very sensitive hairless skin, which necessitates constant monitoring.
#6 Bolivian Hairless Khala
This unique canine breed from Bolivia is known for its wispy white hair mohawk, making it the largest among the hairless breeds. These medium-sized dogs are very protective of their family, and they thrive with an owner who is dedicated to training and establishes firm leadership so that the puppy perceives them as the pack leader.
Skin colour varies, as it does with other hairless breeds, but settles into a smooth grey colour at maturity.
#7 Indian Jonangi
These once-popular bald dogs, which originated in India and were bred for herding and hunting, are now becoming increasingly difficult to find, even in India. These dogs are mostly silent, yet they do have a characteristic yodel-like bark when they do bark.
While not completely hairless, Jonangis were developed with short coats to withstand India’s scorching summers. They’re known for being quite friendly and easy to train.
#8 Hairless Dog from Ecuador
The Ecuadorian Hairless Dog is one of the rarest hairless dog breeds, with the exception of a small patch on the very top of their head. These dogs’ lack of premolar teeth, as well as their short tail, add to their unusual appearance.
They are Peruvian Inca Orchid ancestors and are not regarded a different breed, but rather a variety of the Peruvian.
Hairless dog grooming
There are numerous reasons why a household might wish to consider adopting a hairless dog. Aside from allergies, most hairless breeds are affectionate and caring, making them great companions who will curl up at your feet.
While these breeds do not require grooming or regular brushing, they do require special care for their bald coats, such as regular bathing and nail cutting. The majority of hairless breeds require a coat in the winter and breed-specific dog sunscreen in the summer because they are sensitive to temperature and the elements.