Even hairless dogs can experience a bad hair day. While these dogs may have little to no fur, they still have specific needs when it comes to protecting their skin from dryness and sun exposure, as well as maintaining their teeth and nail health. A lack of fur doesn’t mean no maintenance. These dogs still need regular skin care, teeth brushing, nail trimming, and even occasional grooming.
Here’s a closer look at what owners of hairless dogs should know about caring for their pets, and how to prevent the skin conditions that are common in these breeds.
Hairless Dogs Have Special Grooming Needs
Popular hairless dog breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli, American Hairless Terrier, and the hairless Chinese Crested Dog variety are known for their unique lack of fur on most of their bodies. While they may have small tufts here and there, the majority of their bodies are bald. Despite this, hairless dogs still shed (although less than other breeds), and they are not 100% hypoallergenic. Moreover, these dogs require a specialized grooming routine to maintain their overall health.
Here's what you need to know:
- Hairless dogs carry a mutation in the forkhead I3 gene (FOXI3), which can lead to tooth loss. While this isn’t due to dental disease or decay, you can slow the rate of tooth loss by regularly brushing their teeth.
- Direct sunlight is the worst enemy for hairless dogs, as they can easily suffer from dry skin, blisters, and sunburns due to the lack of fur protection. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent skin issues without limiting outdoor time.
- Many hairless dogs have nails that grow faster than other breeds. Keeping their nails trimmed avoids breakage, discomfort, and helps with traction while walking.
By understanding how to care for your hairless dog’s coat, teeth, and nails, you can ensure they enjoy a happy and healthy life.
Essential Products Recommended for Grooming Hairless Dogs
Kim Kier, the owner of Little Barks Boutique in Columbia, South Carolina, has over 20 years of grooming experience and valuable insight into maintaining hairless dogs' coats.
“Protecting the skin of these coat types is essential, especially since they lack the natural protection of fur,” she says. “As caregivers, it’s our responsibility to create a protective barrier for their skin with proper care. Bathing weekly is recommended, but how we bathe these dogs matters. After bathing, replenishing the skin with essential oils and minerals is crucial.”
But how can dog owners do this? Kier doesn’t recommend oatmeal-based shampoos, unlike other groomers. “I recommend using an antibacterial shampoo. Hairless breeds are more prone to developing canine acne, dermatitis, pruritus, and pyoderma. Using antibacterial shampoo helps us be proactive in managing these conditions.” She also suggests using shampoo in combination with a conditioner. “Shampoo strips oils from the skin, which is its purpose cleansing and removing dirt. However, conditioner containing oils and minerals helps replenish lost moisture, keeping the skin healthy and hydrated.”
Bathing a Hairless Dog Is a Multi-Step Process
Bathing a hairless dog requires more than just a quick rinse and dry. According to Kim Kier, grooming a hairless dog is a step-by-step process. When grooming a dog without fur, she recommends using shampoo and conditioner that helps replenish the skin's natural oils. After that, there’s an additional step that many dog owners might not have thought of.
“Place a small amount [of oil] on your hands and rub it all over your pet,” Kier suggests. “My favorite for hairless breeds is baobab oil. Baobab oil is packed with benefits, from fighting acne to preserving collagen. It is ideal for these breeds because it protects the skin by acting as a barrier from environmental elements that may cause discomfort or damage.”
After applying the oil, finish by gently patting your dog down with a towel. Some owners might think their dog could benefit from "air drying," but the temperature change can cause shivering, and drying your dog properly helps prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
What to Know About Trimming Hairless Dogs’ Nails
Nail care is also crucial for hairless dogs. When nails aren’t trimmed regularly, they can become prone to damage or breakage.
You have two options for keeping your hairless dog’s nails in top condition: doing it yourself or visiting a professional groomer. At home, you can safely trim your dog’s nails using positive reinforcement to make the process easier for both you and your dog.
Start by introducing your dog to the nail clippers or a nail grinder. Let them smell the tool and offer praise and treats each time they interact with it without fear. Next, gently touch the tool to their paws, rewarding them again. Over time, you can move on to trimming one nail at a time, then more nails, until you can trim an entire paw.
Trimming your dog’s nails can be challenging, but with patience and consistency, you’ll get the hang of it. If you'd rather not do it yourself, you can always take your dog to a professional groomer. You can find reputable groomers in your area through the CKC Marketplace for Groomers.
The Importance of Maintaining Your Hairless Dog’s Dental Health
Hairless dogs are more prone to tooth loss compared to other breeds due to a genetic mutation that causes their teeth to grow abnormally, making them more likely to fall out as they age.
Maintaining good dental care at home is a simple yet effective way to ensure your dog remains happy and healthy. When brushing your dog's teeth, always use a dog-safe toothpaste and toothbrush, as many human toothpastes contain harmful ingredients like xylitol and fluoride.
If your dog isn't fond of having their teeth brushed but you still want to support their oral health, dental chews are a great alternative. These tasty treats help clean your dog's teeth and reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar. Just remember to supervise your dog while they enjoy their dental chews to ensure they’re used safely.
Eye, Ear, and Skin Care for Hairless Dogs
We've covered hairless dogs' coat, nails, and teeth, but their eyes, ears, and skin also require special attention. Here’s how to keep your hairless dog feeling and looking their best:
- Keep Gunk Away from Their Eyes: Eye discharge can collect around your dog’s eyes, muzzle, and snout, which can increase the risk of infection. Use a cotton ball moistened with warm water to gently break down the buildup and wipe it away from your dog’s face.
- Regularly Clean Their Ears: Hairless dogs typically have pointed ears, which makes them less susceptible to infections than floppy-eared breeds. However, it’s still important to inspect your dog’s ears regularly for foul odors, excessive wax, or dirt. If you notice any issues, use a solution of mineral oil and warm water to wipe away the debris.
- Rub Oil on Their Skin: Baobab oil is recommended for hairless dogs to protect their skin from the elements. If you plan to spend time outdoors, apply dog-friendly sunscreen to prevent sunburn. This helps keep your dog’s skin healthy, especially since they don’t have fur to act as a barrier.
Hairless dogs have unique grooming needs, but with time, patience, and a bit of trial and error, you can create a grooming routine that works best for your dog.