Queensland Heeler vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed Comparison

Queensland Heeler vs American Hairless Terrier - Breed ComparisonAmerican Hairless Terrier is originated from United States but Queensland Heeler is originated from Australia. American Hairless Terrier may grow 6 cm / 2 inches shorter than Queensland Heeler. American Hairless Terrier may weigh 10 kg / 22 pounds lesser than Queensland Heeler. Both American Hairless Terrier and Queensland Heeler has almost same life span. Both American Hairless Terrier and Queensland Heeler has same litter size. Both American Hairless Terrier and Queensland Heeler requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Herding dogs
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United States
Australia
Height Male:
18 - 45 cm
7 - 18 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Height Female:
16 - 40 cm
6 - 16 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 12 kg
6 - 27 pounds
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 10 kg
4 - 23 pounds
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
1 - 5
Size:
Small
Medium
Other Names:
AHT, American Hairless Rat Terrier
Australian Cattle Dog, Blue Heeler
Colors Available:
variety of colors and patterns (blue, black, brown, pink, sable and tan) with white
mottled blue, Red speckled. Black and tan coloring , Blue
Coat:
hairless, coated variety has a short dense coat
Short, double coat
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Lively, Loving, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low 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.

queensland heelerAnother name for Queensland Heeler is Australian Cattle Dog or Blue Heeler.

These dogs have always been known for herding cattle. The term ‘Heeler’ comes from the dog’s working style – nipping and biting at the cattle’s hooves.

He was was an Australian cattle dog for Australian settlers in the 1800s. It is believed that Thomas Hall created one of the foundations of the Australian Cattle Dog breed by crossing crossing sheepdogs with Dingos.

The Blue-colored dogs have been the most popular, being known as the Blue Heeler.

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.

queensland heeler puppy - descriptionThe Queensland Heeler is a medium sized dog that stands between 43 and 51cm in height, both male and female. The dog weighs in the region of 15 to 22kg.

He has a short double coat with colors being blue, mottled blue and also red speckled. You’ll also find black and tan coloring on this active dog.

He is strong, lean and muscular with medium sized ears that are erect. The eyes are dark and alert, the legs straight and strong. The tail can be docked or left long.

Temperament:

The Australian Cattle Dog is a high-energy working dog that you won’t easily find lying around. The alert eyes are consistently looking around for action and he can’t be bored otherwise he could resort to digging or other destructive behavior.

He is loving to his entire human family, but being particularly attached to just one family member. He is also protective, taking his guarding role of his family seriously.

He gets on well with children and other pets but you’ve just got to keep your eyes on him around children as when excited he can give a nip or two.

Training and socialization will be important for this dog, particularly because he can be strong-headed, willful and stubborn.

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.

queensland heeler dog - characteristicsActive, intelligent, feisty, brave, playful, loving – these are just some of the wonderful characteristics you get when you bring a Queensland Heeler into your home.

True, he is independent, self-willed and stubborn, but training and socialization can take away all the rough edges.

He forms a strong bond with his human owner, and once you’ve had one of these amazing dogs in your life, you’ll be convinced that dogs are truly man’s best friend.

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.

queensland heeler puppies - health problemsAustralian Cattle Dogs are healthy. Every dog, even the most healthiest breeds, can succumb to some of the common dog illnesses there are.

Deafness:

This is an inherited condition, so if you’re looking for a puppy, be careful about the breeder you buy from.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is another inherited condition where the thighbone of the dog doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Your dog is usually so active but with this problem he may well be in pain and actually be lame. Your pet can even develop arthritis . The idea is to get your pet to the vet because it can be unbearable to see him in pain and unable to get around.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This eye disease can mean deterioration of the retina. You'll recognize the signs when you see your dog unable to navigate around your home during the night. He is night blind but later on he can’t see during the day either.

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.

queensland heeler dogs - caringTo cope with his life on the Australian Outback, the Queensland Heeler is known to be a low maintenance dog.

The thick coat does shed and it can get dusty so a good brush twice a week is all that is basically required for this dog. If his nails don’t wear down naturally, you will need to have them trimmed. As with every dog, you will need to give attention to his ears and teeth.

Exercise:

This is an extremely active dog. He is going to be needing both mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom, after all he is used to an active lifestyle herding cattle. Hikes, swimming, running – you name it – he’ll join you with all your activities.

Diet:

Your Queensland Heeler is such a vibrant dog, full of the joys of living, and you want to ensure he has good food to eat to ensure he stays like that.

For convenience you get some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods. Your Blue Heeler is such a wonderful companion dog that you want to spoil him a bit and give him some delicious home-made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your pet – plain and simple just like dogs love it. Chop it up and add it into the high quality dry kibble a couple of times a week.

Some raw meat added in from time to time will help his skin and coat remain healthy. Never leave him without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

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