If you love the physical qualities and personality of a regular Chihuahua, you will also get interested in learning about a hairless Chihuahua. Just like the typical Chihuahuas, hairless Chis are also cuties!
They are also small, and they have a lot of similar traits to the coated types. However, they have some traits that make them special.
Luckily, this article contains the most important information about the so-called bald Chihuahua. Read on to find out more!
What Is a Hairless Chihuahua?
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Hairless Chihuahuas are small, compact Chihuahuas with a rare genetic problem that causes them to have no hair on their bodies. Aside from their petite frame and hairless bodies, they share the same characteristics as other Chihuahuas. They are also intelligent and loving canines.
A hairless Chihuahua breed may look a bit different from short-haired or long-haired Chihuahuas, but they have the same traits and characteristics.
Many decades ago, dog breeders from various parts of the world collaborated to produce a hairless miniature puppy. Successful Chihuahua crosses were then produced by crossing different dog breeds.
After these attempts, they finally came up with totally hairless Chihuahua puppies. From then on, several litters were produced that gained popularity worldwide.
Are Hairless Chihuahuas Rare?
A hairless Chihuahua is just like a coated Chihuahua in terms of other characteristics, but it is considered rare. This is because breeders do not often produce bald Chihuahuas due to their condition.
These dogs’ hairlessness is caused by a rare genetic disease that makes them lose hair. As a result, there are only very few pups that exhibit this physical trait.
If you ever come across a hairless Chihuahua, consider yourself lucky because there aren’t so many of them being bred.
Hairless Chihuahua Appearance
A bald Chihuahua is a petite dog with an average size of 5 to 8 inches and weighs at least 4 to 8 pounds. Its body structure is strong and compact, but it is rather long rather than tall.
Even though they are coined hairless, this Chihuahua is not completely bald. The truth is that they have a very thin layer of hair on their head, extremities, and other parts of the body.
A hairless Chihuahua’s thin fur is soft and smooth. It also comes in a variety of colors, including brown, black, gray, and white. Some may appear a sand-like color or a mix of white and brown or gray.
This dog walks with its ears erected while its tail is raised and its head lies straight. The prominent part of their face is their big, round eyes that are very expressive.
Some people confuse short-haired Chihuahuas with hairless Chihuahuas. However, short-haired varieties have a short coat covering their entire body.
Hairless Chihuahua Genetics
The hairless Chihuahua is not a subspecies of the Chihuahua breed. The absence of their hair is caused by a genetic factor that affects hair growth.
In general, hairlessness in dogs can be genetically dominant or recessive. Hairless Chihuahuas are mostly affected by the dominant type, which is a result of a mutation in the Forkhead box I3 (FOXI3) gene.
This mutation results in canine ectodermal dysplasia (CED). The most obvious signs of CED are alopecia and dental hypoplasia. So aside from hair loss, hairless Chihuahuas often have missing or abnormally-shaped teeth.
With that said, having two Chihuahuas that carry the FOXI3 gene will produce a litter of puppies with 66.6 percent hairless and 33.3 percent coated puppies.
Does AKC Recognize the Hairless Chihuahuas?
Although the Chihuahua breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1904, the hairless Chihuahua specifically is not recognized by the organization. Having thin hair is considered a disqualification by the breed’s standards.
As such, hairless Chihuahuas cannot participate in different dog shows and competitions. Thus, they remain rare and less popular than other types of Chihuahuas. They can only be kept as companions.
Hairless Chihuahua Temperament and Personality
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A bald Chihuahua has the same character as a Chihuahua with a coat. It is also loyal, alert, and bold, making this canine breed an amazing watchdog, despite its body build.
Their protective nature makes them wary of strangers. As a result, a hairless Chihuahua barks heavily at people or intruders that it does not recognize.
They may have a diminutive size but hairless Chihuahuas tend to be aggressive at times. They can be overly protective of their owners.
Furthermore, a hairless Chihuahua breed is highly adaptable and very intelligent. Since it shows a willingness to learn, training a hairless Chihuahua puppy should not be too difficult.
Another endearing fact about hairless Chihuahuas is that they love to be around their owners most of the time. They are loyal and loving pets that like to seek attention.
These petite, hairless dogs have great personalities. They will eventually show you their feisty and adorable traits. They are indeed an easy keeper!
Hairless Chihuahua Lifespan and Health Issues
Like other types of Chihuahuas, a healthy hairless Chihuahua can live around 7 to 16 years. However, some of these bald Chihuahuas can manage to live even up to 20 years when given proper care.
Unfortunately, hairless Chihuahuas are prone to different health conditions or abnormalities. Regardless of their gender, such abnormalities may even lead to neurological conditions like epilepsy.
However, other health problems may also develop and lead to bigger issues when not addressed immediately. Some of them are the following:
Conjunctivitis: Since hairless Chihuahuas have large, bulging eyes, they are likely to have eye infections like conjunctivitis. The common symptoms of this eye condition include swelling, redness, itchiness, or blinking excessively.
Tooth and Gum Disease: The primary cause of tooth and gum disease or periodontal disease is tartar and plaque build-up. No obvious signs and symptoms are observed until it reaches its advanced stage. However, gum diseases can lead to chronic pain, bone loss, and gum erosion in hairless Chihuahuas, which are more prone to dental problems.
Obesity: Obesity in a hairless Chihuahua may lead to other chronic health problems such as joint or spine problems, difficulty in breathing, and arthritis. Limiting their food intake can help slim down your overweight Chihuahuas.
Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is one of the common concerns of hairless Chihuahua puppy owners. Some of its physical signs in dogs are seizures, weakness, and muscle twitching.
Make sure that the food they eat is appropriate for their age. By feeding them with the right amount of nutritious foods, your hairless Chihuahuas will enjoy more years with you.
Special Care for Hairless Chihuahuas
Caring for the hairless Chihuahua breed is not as complicated as you imagine. What matters most is your awareness of the necessary precautions to keep your pet healthy.
Their absence of hair means that they are more at risk of skin inflammation or even skin cancer. So, the first thing to remember is to keep them from prolonged sun exposure.
Furthermore, use some protective clothing that covers most of your pet’s body parts. The most commonly affected areas in hairless Chihuahuas are their back part and the abdomen.
You can also prevent the occurrence of skin infections by frequent bathing and using oatmeal or moisturizing shampoos. Also, take them for dermatologic examinations regularly.
On the other hand, keep an eye on your Chihuahua hairless dog’s nutrition regardless of its age. Watch their weight level and calorie consumption carefully, as these factors may cause them to get overweight.
Along with proper skin care and nutrition, give your pet a daily dose of moderate exercise as well. Take your hairless Chihuahua puppy for a walk but be careful not to get it attacked by other dogs.
How Much Does a Hairless Chihuahua Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
If you want to adopt or buy a hairless Chihuahua puppy, you need to look for professional breeders in your area. Expect to pay an average amount between $400 and $1,500 for a hairless Chihuahua puppy.
You can also adopt a Chihuahua hairless puppy. The adoption fees for this breed range between $50 and $500.
Take note that this is the price for the puppy alone. Initial expenses such as dog food, treats, crates, beds, collars, and other supplies must also be accounted for.
Here is the list of initial costs when owning a hairless Chihuahua puppy:
Aside from these expenses, you need to prepare a budget for recurring and even emergency expenses. If your pet gets sick, make sure you provide the right treatment and necessary supplies it needs.
To know more about these potential expenses, check out our article on Chihuahua costs.
Places to Find Hairless Chihuahua Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Having a bald Chihuahua puppy means having a cute and intelligent companion that offers love and loyalty. If you are wondering where to find one, there are several reliable places you can go.
Here are some of the most recommended breeders where you can find hairless Chihuahuas for sale:
Lancaster Puppies – This is an online directory for hundreds of dog breeds, including hairless Chihuahua for sale. Lancaster Puppies extends its services to different parts of the United States.
Greenfield Puppies – Established in 2000, Greenfield Puppies intend to connect Chihuahua puppies, such as the hairless Chihuahua, with loving and caring families. This website introduces different kinds of Chihuahua puppies and other dog breeds as well.
Hollywood Chis – This breeder has been breeding quality Chihuahuas for more than 16 years. All their puppies, including the hairless Chihuahua, comply with the AKC standards and go through excellent breeding programs.
Similarly, you can check our list of the best Chihuahua breeders that may offer hairless Chihuahua puppies.
Make sure to practice caution and read our puppy buying guide to learn how you can buy puppies safely online.
If you are not into buying a hairless Chihuahua puppy, then you may consider adopting one.
You may also take a look at the following list of shelters or organizations that may offer hairless Chihuahuas:
Bald is Beautiful (BisB) – BisB is an independent rescue and non-profit organization with years of experience in the rehabilitation and rescue of canines in need. They focus on small and hairless dog breeds that need special attention, including hairless Chihuahuas.
Chihuahua Rescue Indiana, Inc. – This is an all-volunteer organization that aims to rescue Chihuahuas, including hairless ones, and help them find a new shelter. They spay and neuter their rescued pets before sending them to their new adoptive home.
Chihuahua and Small Dog Rescue – This site is composed of volunteers who are dedicated to providing a safe haven to abandoned, homeless, or injured small dogs, particularly Chihuahuas. They occasionally take in hairless Chihuahuas.
Our list of the best Chihuahua rescues can also help you find hairless Chihuahuas for adoption in the United States. Luckily, our ultimate dog adoption guide can provide you with tips on how to adopt successfully!
There are also several ways to get a hairless Chihuahua for free. Check out our ways how to find free puppies in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do Hairless Chihuahuas Shed?
A hairless Chihuahua does not shed. Furthermore, they do not require coat grooming at all since they do not have so much hair.
However, make sure that they stay warm all the time by providing some protective gear for them.
Are Hairless Chihuahuas Hypoallergenic?
No. A bald Chihuahua is not hypoallergenic. It can make people in the household prone to allergies. But with proper precautions, you may be able to live with this breed despite your allergies.
Do Hairless Chihuahuas Feel the Cold?
Chihuahua hairless dogs get cold more easily. The absence of hair in their bodies means that they don’t have protection against cold weather, which may cause hypothermia and dehydration.
Final Thoughts: Is a Bald Chihuahua the Right Dog for You?
A hairless Chihuahua is a cute companion with a huge personality, making it an ideal addition to every individual or family. This breed is friendly not only to its owners but to kids, too.
Whether you have a purebred hairless Chihuahua or a hairless Chihuahua mix, it is important to know its special needs to keep its body warm and in good condition.
A hairless Chihuahua is a good choice if you want a non-shedding dog in your household. What do you think about these hairless pets? Let us know your thoughts by sharing them in the comment section.
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