Smithfield vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed Comparison

Smithfield vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed ComparisonAmerican Hairless Terrier is originated from United States but Smithfield is originated from United Kingdom. American Hairless Terrier may grow 8 cm / 3 inches shorter than Smithfield. American Hairless Terrier may weigh 13 kg / 28 pounds lesser than Smithfield. Both American Hairless Terrier and Smithfield has almost same life span. American Hairless Terrier may have less litter size than Smithfield. American Hairless Terrier requires Low Maintenance. But Smithfield requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Herding dogs
undefined
United States
United Kingdom
Height Male:
18 - 45 cm
7 - 18 inches
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
Height Female:
16 - 40 cm
6 - 16 inches
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 12 kg
6 - 27 pounds
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 10 kg
4 - 23 pounds
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
3 - 8
Size:
Small
Medium
Other Names:
AHT, American Hairless Rat Terrier
Smithy, Tasmanian Smithfield
Colors Available:
variety of colors and patterns (blue, black, brown, pink, sable and tan) with white
grey or reddish brown., black, White
Coat:
hairless, coated variety has a short dense coat
Medium length, rough shaggy
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Lively, Loving, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

american hairless terrierDerived from the Rat Terrier, the American Hairless Terrier was born in a litter of Rat Terriers in 1972.

The evolution of this breed is very different from other hairless breeds. The American Hairless Terrier was independently developed when a hairless pup was produced in a litter of normal Rat Terriers. The owners of this pup, Edwin and Willie Scott attempted to breed her to other Rat terriers but were not successful in having another hairless pup until years later. Then they had a litter with one male and one female hairless puppy.

From that point on they worked with a veterinarian and a geneticist to develop the breed until it was accepted as a separate breed from the Rat Terrier in 2004 and accepted into the AKC in 2016.

The breed is very rare and with hairless dogs breeding only produces about two thirds of the litter as hairless and one third as coated. If a hairless is bred to a coated terrier, the chances of getting hairless puppies are 50% hairless and 50% coated. It is very rare to get a hairless when breed two coated terriers. The difference between the American Hairless Terrier and other hairless breeds is that the hairless gene in most breed is a lethal dominant gene, but in the AHT it is a recessive gene.

smithfieldThe Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.

It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.

The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.

Description

american hairless terrier puppy - descriptionThe American Hairless Terrier is similar to it’s breed of origin, the Rat Terrier, and the coated AHT looks very much like a Rat Terrier. They are small to medium in size, very muscular and have more refined features than the Rat Terrier. Their round eyes can be a variety of colors including amber, brown, grey, turquoise and blue. The tail is not docked but rather long and thin.

The AHT might have eyebrows and whiskers or they might only have whiskers. Their head is broad, and wedge shaped with upright ears. They are an energetic, social and intelligent dog.

smithfield puppy - descriptionThe Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.

He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.

The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.

He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.

Temperament:

The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.

You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.

They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.

Characteristics

american hairless terrier dog - characteristicsThis is a curious, intelligent, little dog. They are terrific family dogs with a note to say they are better with older children than with younger. If they are raised with small children, then they are terrific with them. They are territorial, and the children become part of their territory. They will guard and protect them.

They need to play, and this is the biggest requirement for owners. Be sure you have time for them. This is not a couch potato dog. They have a lot of energy and can be destructive and “barky” if that energy is not dissipated. They are terriers through and through and love to “go to ground” whether going in holes they find or digging the holes themselves. They will go after small rodents like chipmunks. They need to be protected in these activities since their skin is vulnerable to scratches and cuts from brush. Their prey drive is strong, so it is important to protect them from themselves in this respect.

They are curious and feisty and every inch the terrier. Affectionate, friendly, and social it is also important to remember they can be scared easily, hurt if play is too rough, and this will trigger barking. They make very good watch dogs.

smithfield dog - characteristicsThose who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.

These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.

Health Problems

american hairless terrier puppies - health problemsThere are not many health problems bothering this sturdy little dog.

The American Hairless Terrier has limited breeding stock and it is still a rare breed. Its health problems are mostly related to its hairless state. The breed is highly susceptible to sunburn, rashes, pimples, and allergies. They often need clothing in all seasons to protect them from the heat of the sun or from the cold. The skin must be cleaned regularly often daily with soap and water. This is especially true if sunscreen is used as they are open to skin infections.

Hip dysplasia is also a common issue for this small breed.

smithfield puppies - health problemsThese dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.

You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -

Canine Distemper:

This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.

Canine parvovirus:

Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.

Heatstroke:

This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.

Caring The Pet

american hairless terrier dogs - caringThe American Hairless Terrier has some food needs that might be different from other breeds. They should not be given food that contains soy, wheat or corn. They need to be fed at least 3-4 times a day in small amounts as puppies and twice a day as adult. Be sure to avoid overeating and obesity. Puppies need about 400 calories a day whether you feed four times or two times. The adult American Hairless Terrier needs about 500-600 calories per day. This might be half a cup to a cup per day.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American Hairless Terrier has skin health issues and is also prone to hip dysplasia.

Exercise and games

This is a great breed for games if you make them small to match his size. He is energetic, athletic and playful. He loves agility, lure chasing and barn hunt activities. They need a good half hour of vigorous exercise per day.

Exercise:

smithfield dogs - caringThe Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.

It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.

Have your pet’s nails trimmed.

Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.

Diet:

Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.

Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Smithfield vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Smithfield vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Smithfield vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Smithfield vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Smithfield vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Smithfield vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Smithfield vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Smithfield vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Smithfield vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Smithfield vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Smithfield vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Smithfield vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Smithfield vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Smithfield vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Smithfield vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Smithfield vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Smithfield vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Smithfield vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Smithfield vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Smithfield vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Smithfield vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Smithfield vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Smithfield vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Smithfield vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Smithfield vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. American Hairless Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. American Hairless Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. American Hairless Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. American Hairless Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. American Hairless Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. American Hairless Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. American Hairless Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. American Hairless Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. American Hairless Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. American Hairless Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. American Hairless Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. American Hairless Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. American Hairless Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. American Hairless Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. American Hairless Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. American Hairless Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. American Hairless Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. American Hairless Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. American Hairless Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. American Hairless Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. American Hairless Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. American Hairless Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. American Hairless Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. American Hairless Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. American Hairless Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison