Tag: Third Batch

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All dogs have a great capacity to learn, perform tricks, and, of course, convince you they deserve another treat. A “smart dog,” however, is often thought of as a dog who is highly trainable. But according to dog trainer and behaviorist Karen London, Ph.D., a dog’s intelligence can be measured in many different ways, and the characteristics that make a dog smart can vary widely. Some of those qualities include being highly trainable (including being able to learn new commands quickly), adaptable, able to learn complex tasks, and possessing good problem-solving skills. Smart dogs are also emotionally intelligent and able to interact positively with humans and other animals.

“Smart” dog breeds have historically been given jobs that suit their talents, and today, many of these dogs have important jobs, such as search and rescue, therapy, and service work. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or a working dog, these genius dog breeds are sure to impress you with their cleverness and adaptability. Just be careful — they might end up running the household.

Most intelligent dog breeds:

1. Border Collie

Border Collies are known for their intelligence, agility, and herding instincts. Lots of Border Collies are still gainfully employed as working dogs on farms and ranches, but whether working or not, they’re quick to pick up skills related to obedience training, agility competitions, and flyball.

While the Border Collie is considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds, they require a lot of mental and physical stimulation and may try to herd other pets or even children if they need something to do. They can be encouraged to redirect this energy, but may not be a good fit for potential pet parents who don’t have lots of dog experience.

2. Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, or “Blue Heeler,” is another herding breed known for working with cattle. The breed, which hails from Australia, is medium-sized with a muscular build and a short, dense coat speckled gray-blue or red. They have a strong work ethic and are loyal and protective of their families, though they can be shy with strangers. While Heelers are highly intelligent, they are also pretty independent, which can translate to stubbornness. They are a great fit for active households with plenty of opportunities to exercise their minds and bodies.

3. Schnauzer

The Schnauzer is a breed that originated in Germany. These smarty-pants dogs have wiry, salt-and-pepper coats and a lot of confidence; they’re aware of everything going on around them. They’re friendly, personable, and make great family pets. They are also pretty good watchdogs, which means some barking is to be expected. They need regular exercise, but mental stimulation is more important for a Schnauzer. After some explorative play, they love cuddling on the couch with their people.

4. German Shepherd Dog

German Shepherds are very versatile and trainable for all sorts of jobs and circumstances. They have an imposing presence, with a muscular build, and have transitioned from their original jobs as herders and sheep guarders to, most frequently, working for the police and military, as they are loyal and have protective instincts that lead them to respond intensely to potential threats. These persistently smart pups can also make great service dogs and have a strong desire to please their people. They need patient and knowledgeable handlers to be at their best and require lots of regular exercise.

5. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is another smart herding dog who has segued into military and police work but can also be trained for search and rescue and as a service dog. These dogs get super focused on whatever new tricks they’re asked to do and can stay focused for a long period of time. If only we all could say the same. With that much brain power, the Belgian Malinois needs lots of mental activity and exercise, so they need experienced pet parents with time for training and outdoor runs. But it’s worth it — a well-trained Malinois is an amazing companion.

6. Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a large breed with a short, sleek coat that is typically silver-gray and a lot of brains. Weimaraners were originally bred as hunting dogs and have a strong prey drive, lots of endurance, and immense speed. They are now often used in search and rescue teams, police work, and as service dogs. Though tough, Weimaraners are very loyal and affectionate with their pet parents and need a lot of company to prevent anxiety and destructive behavior. They also need plenty of exercise.

7. Poodle

The Poodle offers so much: intelligence, elegance, and a hypoallergenic coat, which is curly and non-shedding. There are even different sizes for different households: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Poodles are considered by many to be one of the most intelligent breeds, as they are quick learners who are great with obedience, agility, and even hunting. They also make great service dogs. Just don’t leave them to their own devices too much, or they’ll get creative in destructive ways.

8. Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. These dogs are known for their intelligence, friendly personalities, and loyalty. Their coats can be various colors, including black, yellow, and chocolate, and they were originally bred to retrieve game and fish. They love to swim and need a lot of exercise, as well as social time to be happy pups. They’re generally very friendly and a common choice for families with kids, and they like other animals, too.

9. Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog hails from Scotland and was originally bred as a herding dog. Like most herding dogs, they’re super smart and still love participating in competitive herding trials. They can make great therapy dogs or work in search and rescue roles — give this dog a job, and they’ll thank you. They are loyal, affectionate, and social, and love the company of people and other animals. They have a lot of personality and energy, so are a good choice for families with the time, space, and patience to train them properly.

10. Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a mix of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. The character traits they inherit from each parent can vary, but like their Poodle parent, Cockapoos are hypoallergenic. Both Poodles and Spaniels are intelligent breeds, and Cockapoos also generally inherit this trait. They’re also affectionate and social, making them great family pets. They’re pretty adaptable to their surroundings, and with enough exercise and mental stimulation, they’re adaptable to most environments, including apartments.

11. Flat-Coated Retriever

The Flat-Coated Retriever has exceptional retrieving abilities and a thick, shiny coat (hence the breed’s name). These retrievers have a unique face that almost appears to be smiling, and they have a reputation for being eager to please to match. They’re playful, outgoing, energetic, and very adaptable; they thrive in many different living situations. They are also often used as therapy dogs as they are gentle and social.

12. Papillon

The Papillon is a toy breed that originated in France and has beautiful butterfly-shaped ears and silky coats. Although usually considered a lap-dog, the Papillon is highly energetic and active; these smart pups are stars at agility and obedience trials. Papillons are quick to learn and agreeable. They love people and other pets and are quite fearless despite their size. They are great for apartment living as long as they get exercise and mental stimulation.

13. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a large breed known for their protective nature and big brains; they are quick to learn and have a strong desire to obey. Though they are independent, Rottweilers are fiercely loyal to their families and are often used as guard dogs. They require consistent training and socialization to help make the best of their abilities.

14. English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a sweet, playful, friendly pup who is also plenty smart. They have an excellent sense of smell and strong tracking abilities and have historically been used as hunting companions. They also have great problem-solving skills and still work alongside hunters today. If you don’t like clingy pets, they’re not for you; the Springer Spaniel is sometimes referred to as a “velcro dog” since they always want to be by your side. They’re also chill with all types of environments as long as they have company and regular activity.

15. Schipperke

The Schipperke is a small breed with a thick, black, water-resistant coat and a build often described as “sturdy.” These smart dogs have fox-like faces and thin legs, and are quite energetic and playful. The Schipperke is a clever and independent thinker who won’t be overly reliant on you for direction. That can be a good or bad thing, depending on your relationship, but obedience training is something they’ll take well to with consistency.

16. Corgi

Corgis, a smart breed of herding dogs originating in Wales, have long, stocky bodies and adorable short legs. Not much is cuter than a Corgi’s waddle, and they’re well-known for being popular amongst the U.K. royals. Corgis who don’t live in palaces, however, still work as herding dogs today and are adaptable to different living situations, including apartments. These smart pups are highly responsive to training and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. Corgis’ excellent memories help them remember commands and routines forever. Despite their small size, they need a lot of exercise to keep waddling into their old age.

17. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever was originally a hunting dog but is now more often a beloved family dog. They have beautiful yellow coats and smiling faces and are smart and friendly. Golden Retrievers are highly active dogs who need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. They’re very attuned to human emotions and are often used as therapy dogs because of their calming presence and ability to comfort people. They’re a great choice for a first dog.

18. Doberman Pinscher

Originally bred to work as personal protectors and guard dogs, Dobermans are often used as police and military dogs because, when well-trained, they can quickly assess potential threats and respond to the slightest command. They have an alert and protective nature and make excellent watchdogs, but also make good family pets; they’re very sensitive to their pet parent’s feelings. They need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to feel and act their best, but the Doberman makes a wonderful, loyal companion.

19. Collie

There’s a reason Lassie was always saving Timmy — Collies are the epitome of smart. Collies are blessed with an extraordinary level of intelligence that lets them solve puzzles and learn tricks with the ease of a seasoned pro. Just keep in mind that their brilliance sometimes leads to mischievous antics, when not provided enough physical exercise and mental enrichment.

20. Mixed Breed Dog

Don’t overlook one of the most common types of intelligent dogs: mixed breeds. These dogs exhibit a wide range of physical and behavioral characteristics because of their genetic diversity, which can result in unique dogs who are intelligent, athletic, and friendly. They can be just as trainable and reliable as purebred dogs and may also have a lower chance of having inherited diseases and health problems than purebred dogs.

However, mutts’ temperament and behavior can be influenced by a variety of factors, too, including their environment, socialization, and training — but the same can be said for purebred dogs. There’s no way to predict who your pet will be, so be sure to spend time with them before bringing them home.

Can you train your dog to be smart?

A dog’s intelligence is often measured by their training, and most dogs are capable of being trained if that training is compatible with their natural abilities. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, Dr. Stanley Coren examines how a dog’s intelligence and behavior related to specific tasks is influenced by their historical breeding for specific jobs. Essentially, an otherwise smart dog of one breed might struggle with a task they weren’t bred to excel at. For example, a toy-driven dog might not respond to a name game, like the famed Chaser who knew over 1000 words, because they are simply uninterested in toys — making them less motivated to the task at hand. So, find something that motivates your pup and unleash their inner genius with a little mental exercise such as puzzles, trick training, memory games, obedience training, herding, agility, and nose work.

If you’re thinking about bringing home a new BFF and happen to have a soft spot for white dogs, you’re not alone. Loving white dogs is a cross-cultural, cross-generational experience.

While fur color doesn’t define a dog’s personality, there’s something appealing about the clean, crisp look of a white floofy coat. And white dogs stand out in a crowd, making them quite photogenic. These beautiful pups come in many different shapes, sizes, and temperaments: there are white dogs for active people, families with kids, people with allergies, and those of us who want to spend most of our time watching TV.

Just remember, regardless of fur color, each dog is a unique individual. If you’re ready to welcome a new pup into your life, focus on finding the right match in terms of temperament, energy level, and grooming needs. But hey, if you’re partial to snowy coats, here are some of the most popular white dogs, big and small.

Small white dog breeds

Here are some of the cutest white small dog breeds:

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1. West Highland Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier, also known as the Westie, is a small baby originating in Scotland. These white dogs have dense, wiry, double-layered coats, muscular bodies, and pointy ears. Westies are known for their lively, confident, and loyal personalities. They can be trained with consistency and positive reinforcement but are quite independent and need some patience and persistence. They need lots of daily exercise and playtime, especially chasing and digging, ideally outside — you don’t want them to try and do either inside the house.

SimonSkafar / iStock

2. Coton de Tuléar

The Coton de Tuléar is appropriately named after cotton fiber; these companion dogs have beautiful puffy white coats that need brushing to prevent mats, but don’t shed very much. They’re generally very quiet and like people and other dogs. They can be shy with strangers — their devotion is entirely for their pet parents — and can be good guard dogs. They like learning new things and take well to training. The Coton de Tuléar also only needs moderate exercise, so enjoy their company on the couch.

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3. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a white dog breed with a big personality, bred to liven up circus performances. The Bichon Frise is playful, social, and cuddly. They love running around outside and soaking up all the attention they attract. The Bichon Frise grows a long, fluffy white coat that requires regular brushing and grooming and can be formed into interesting shapes, so that’s fun. Unfortunately, the Bichon Frise does not love being left alone and can be destructive if ignored. They also have a reputation for being difficult to housebreak. This is definitely a dog that needs your full attention.

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4. Maltese

Maltese dogs have beautiful white coats that will grow into swinging silky curtains if not kept trimmed. They are surprisingly low-shed, but still need regular brushings to keep out tangles. Grooming them is drama-free, though: they will sit in your lap and absorb your attention with joy. They are easily trained and adaptable to different environments, so they can fit into apartments or big homes. They love kids, but they’re delicate, so make sure any children they’re around know how to handle them.

Nikita Korchagin / Pexels

5. American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo dog is considered an “ancient breed” that has a bit of wolf in its bloodline. That said, these dogs can come in different sizes, some of which are pretty tiny. Similar to the Japanese Spitz, all American Eskimos, have flowing white fur coats, striking, fox-like faces, and long plumed tails that curl up over their backs. Despite their elegant build, they are extremely active and energetic and want lots of activity and exercise.

Vista Photo / iStock

6. Havanese

Havanese are lap-dogs with wavy coats that puff out around their faces like a lion’s mane. Instead of a majestic feline face in that mane, though, you’ll find a goofy teddy bear with floppy ears. Their coats require a lot of grooming and can be styled many ways. Havanese make great therapy dogs because of their inexhaustible need for human attention, but the other side of that coin is that they can get very loud and destructive if you leave them alone for too long. If you can bring your dog to most places you go, this is the one for you.

Big white dog breeds

Don’t forget about large dog breeds. Here are six bigger white dog breeds:

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1. Samoyed

The Samoyed is the ultimate floof. Originally from Siberia, Russia, where they grew thick fluffy white coats to protect themselves from and blend in with the harsh Arctic landscape. Samoyeds make wonderful pets but obviously don’t do well in warm climates. They love outdoor play in cool environments, especially the snow, and they need lots of daily exercise. Samoyeds like hiking, running, and playing, but should always have access to shade and water. One note is that they have a high prey drive, so only pair them with other animals their size or larger for the sake of household peace.

wolfhound911 / AdobeStock

2. White German Shepherd

German Shepherds are typically known for their black and tan coloration, but there are White German Shepherds; they are the same breed but with a recessive gene that affects pigment production. They have pure white coats, pink noses, and light-colored eyes, but their coloration is unrelated to albinism. German Shepherds are quite strong and have a reputation for fierceness, and while they tend to be protective, they can be very loving, loyal, and affectionate with their pet parents. Careful socialization is a must as are long walks and play. They will be happiest when learning tasks that challenge their skills with agility and tracking. And whatever color they are, German Shepherds need lots of brushing.

Petro / AdobeStock

3. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees breed hails from a mountain range bordering France and Spain, and, like their name suggests, they are big. Their long, rangy bodies are covered in a shaggy white coat that is usually white or cream, and they need lots of grooming. They were bred as working dogs set to guard sheep, have a mild temperament, and are friendly and affectionate. They can also be amazingly stubborn when they don’t feel like doing something. Invest in training, and they can make wonderful family pets. A Great Pyrenees needs lots of regular exercise and play, but they’re happy to quietly relax with you afterward.

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4. Bull Terriers

The Bull Terrier is a muscular and athletic dog with a short, shiny coat that can come in a range of colors, including pure white. They are known for their playful and outgoing personalities and being extremely smart; they need plenty of mental stimulation. They can also be quite stubborn but will take to training with patience and positive reinforcement. Bull Terriers also need a lot of exercise and space to run around. But be cautious: without proper socialization and early positive experiences, they can get aggressive with other dogs and strangers. They’re a breed that’s best for experienced pet parents.

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5. Standard Poodle

Poodles come in all different colors, but one of the most iconic visions people have of poodles is of a big white dog covered in sculptural curls. These water dogs also come in several sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Poodles are generally very smart, and their temperaments tend to correlate with their size: the little guys have a reputation for being feisty, while the larger they are, the more complacent they tend to be. Poodles have curly coats that are considered hypoallergenic because they are hair, not fur. Their coats can get quite long, so keep them brushed and groomed. Most of all, have fun with your poodle: they need to keep those sharp minds occupied with lots of play.

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6. Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are well-known for their eponymous golden coats, but they can also have pale cream, nearly white fur color. They have broad, open faces that look like they’re always smiling, and those faces match their friendly, outgoing personalities. Golden Retrievers are known for being great, affectionate family pets who are fond of kids. They’re also very active dogs who need lots of regular exercise and playtime, including swimming, fetching, and going on long walks or hikes. They also love training that requires focus and makes them feel useful. Try teaching them to get the newspaper in the morning as a nostalgic throwback.

Caring for white dog breeds

Grooming white dog breeds and keeping their coat bright demands regular maintenance and some elbow grease. Not literally of course — grease will only make things worse.

Brushing and bathing

Brush your white dog regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or dead hair dulling their coat. Slicker brushes or combs can help gently remove tangles and mats. Regular baths with a mild dog shampoo and conditioner are also important; rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap residue and dry thoroughly afterward with a towel and a blow dryer set to the very lowest setting so dust doesn’t turn into mud in your dog’s newly washed locks.

Sun exposure

A somewhat controversial fact is that overexposure to the sun can cause a white dog’s coat to yellow or become discolored. Bringing your dog inside during the hottest parts of the day will help, but don’t forgo outdoor time just to keep your dog brighter. They deserve play and sunshine, too, and will likely get a little yellow with age anyway. Besides changes in fur color, dog breeds with white fur are more likely to get sunburned than other breeds, so be sure to use sunscreen on any thinly covered areas.

Shampoos

There are whitening shampoos that can help brighten your dog’s coat and remove any discoloration, but make sure to choose a high-quality product that is specifically designed for dogs. What doesn’t harm our scalps could irritate their skin. Check with your veterinarian to ensure your shampoo of choice is suitable for your dog.

Healthy diet

You can also treat your dog from the inside out with a well-balanced, nutritional diet that helps keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

What are the biggest white dog breeds?

Some of the biggest white dog breeds are Great Pyrenees, Samoyed, Akita, Irish Wolfhound, and Siberian Husky which all can have completely or partially white coats.

What types of white dogs are there?

There are over 12 breeds of dogs that can come in solid white — they can range from small to large, some are smooth coated while others are fluffy or curly.

What breeds of white dogs have pointy ears?

There are several breeds of white dogs with pointy ears including American Eskimo, Japanese Spitz, Samoyed, Bull Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier.

Are all white dogs deaf?

No, not all white dogs are deaf. Certain breeds of dogs have a greater likelihood of being born with deafness, particularly those with a white coat. Dogs with albinism, merle or dapper coats, or spots are at a higher risk.

Which white dog breeds are really fluffy?

Two of the most well-known white dog breeds that are really fluffy are the Samoyed and the American Eskimo. With big floofy snow-colored coats, these pups are sure to melt your heart.

Are there any big white dogs that don’t shed?

All dogs shed, but the Standard Poodle is known for being a low-shedding dog breed that comes in many colors, including white.

Are solid white dogs rare?

Nope, unlike solid white cats, there are several healthy and common dog breeds specifically bred for their luscious white coats.

References:

Sunburn and Dogs

West Highland White Terriers History

Dog Breeds With Reported Congenital Deafness

Breed-Specific Deafness Prevalence In Dogs

Largest Dog Breeds

16 Largest Dog Breeds

Why White Dogs are White

7 Surprising New Discoveries About Dog Traits

Considering adopting a hairless cat? Though they have unique needs and challenges, most hairless cat breeds are affectionate, loyal, and fun. While some cats have a naturally occurring gene mutation that creates the condition, others are bred for it in ways that can cause health problems as the bloodline shortens, or because their hairlessness makes them more susceptible to skin conditions.

Hairless cats come in two varieties, completely smooth and peach fuzz, both of which are meant to be indoor cats. Like any nude creature outdoors, they can get sunburned easily. These cats have specific grooming needs that might not be for every pet parent — but you’ll never have to brush them or worry about fur on your clothes and furniture.

Before bringing home any new cat, make sure you understand the cost and time required to properly care for them. Curious about which cat breeds are the ultimate floofs? Check out these fluffy cat breeds known for their extra floofiness. Read on to learn about ten nude cat breeds.

Hairless (and nearly naked) cat breeds

 

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1. Sphynx

The distinctive Sphynx cat is a popular choice for folks who want a hairless cat. These cats can have variegated skin tones, but are often a pale pink flesh tone. Hairlessness and wrinkles in these cats are produced by genetic mutations, but the Sphynx wasn’t selectively bred for this trait until the 1960s — some displayed it and some didn’t, so by pairing those who were born hairless, it became a consistent trait. These cats are very affectionate and love learning new tricks and spending time with people.

They do get very oily and require regular bathing, or you might end up popping kitty zits — which, for the record, vets don’t recommend as doing so can make the acne worse or spread infection. Get ahead of the issue with warm suds. They are prone to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Hereditary Myopathy, and Periodontal disease and can also have trouble regulating their body temperature. Great excuse to buy cat sweaters.

Peterpancake / Shutterstock

2. Bambino

A Bambino cat is a Sphynx crossed with a Munchkin, a cat that naturally has short, stubby legs. This bald cat breed generally looks like the Sphynx but with smaller legs. Cats of this breed can also inherit health problems from both the Sphynx and the Munchkin; the Sphynx is susceptible to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Hereditary Myopathy, and Periodontal disease, while Munchkins are susceptible to bone deformities, including along the spine.

These health issues make them a controversial new cat breed of their own, having only been launched in 2005. Like the Sphynx, the Bambino is vulnerable to the sun, the cold, and skin conditions. 

jurra8 / AdobeStock

3. Donskoy

The Sphynx and the Donskoy, sometimes called the Russian Hairless, look similar, but their hairlessness comes from different genetic mutations. The Donskoy is usually leaner than the rounder naked Sphynx, with more sharply almond-shaped eyes.

Some Donskoy cats are born with fur coats that they may lose to some degree as they age — they’re distinguished as flocked, velour, and brush coats. Flocked Donskoy cats are almost totally hairless but for a thin coat. The ones born “nude” are called “rubber bald.” These cats are very affectionate, love to cuddle, and can be as loyal as a dog.

dwelfanddrool / Instagram

4. Dwelf

Another carefully bred and costly cat, the Dwelf is a mix of Sphynx, Munchkin, and American Curl. The Dwelf looks similar to the Bambino, but the most notable visual difference between these hairless cat breeds is the Dwelf’s curly and textured ears. Because the breed is rare, they have a small gene pool, which makes it harder to breed healthy cats. They are susceptible to health problems, including skin issues, heart disease, spine curvature, and joint disease.

Max Simonov / Unsplash

5. Elf

The Elf cat is a hairless mix of Sphynx and American Curl. These cats have the same curly ears as the Dwelf, with somewhat longer legs and very soft wrinkly skin folds. They love to climb and play and are quite social and cuddly. They will definitely demand your attention. The Elf was bred by Karen Nelson and Kristen Leedom in 2004, so the breed is quite rare.

Julianne Carlile (life.with.lykoi) / Instagram

6. Lykoi

Lykoi cats, also known as “werewolf cats,” can have varying amounts of fur as a result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation discovered in Domestic Shorthairs about two decades ago. When their full coat comes in, it is usually black and gray and sparse resulting in a lot of naked skin showing through. This breed usually has large yellow eyes and big pointed ears with similarly shaped faces to a Sphynx. They bond well with one person and other cats but can be shy at first. Once they warm up to you, they’re great companions and love hunting and playing fetch.

mondayandgreta / Instagram

7. Minskin

The Minskin is another rare nearly naked cat that is a fairly new breed; the breed is a mix of Munchkin, Burmese, Sphynx, and Devon Rex. They often have a thin coat, but you can usually see the classic Sphynx skin folds through it. They’re usually quite small with short legs even when fully grown, and since they come from a number of other friendly breeds, you can expect them to be affectionate and playful, too.

zenlovecat / Instagram

8. Peterbald

The Peterbald cat originated in Russia and became popular in the mid-1990s. They’re still popular, making them both rare and expensive. They come in different colors but are most often gray or with the color-point pattern of a Siamese cat. They’re sometimes compared to an Oriental shorthair in build, but they have that neat hair-losing genetic mutation. They can be quite friendly and talkative. 

Drazen / iStock

9. Sphynxiebob

If you want a cat that is both hairless and tailless, the Sphynxiebob — a mix between a Sphynx and a Bobtail cat — is for you. Breeder April Arguin debuted this breed, which looks remarkably similar to a Sphynx with the adorable little short tail of a Bobtail, in 2015. Described as “velcro kittens,” they make wonderful family members because they love human company and will follow you around the house to get their much-needed daily dose of attention.

Alexandr Junek Imaging / Shutterstock

10. Ukrainian Levkoy

This breed is a cross between a Donskoy and a Scottish Fold, which results in a nearly hairless cat with soft wrinkly skin and large inward-folding ears. They’re often long-bodied and muscular and are most popular in Russia and Ukraine. They come in all different colors but tend to be gray, black, or mixed white and black in a piebald pattern. They’re quite affectionate and social.

Tips on caring for a hairless cat

Regular baths

One of the big demands of a hairless cat is bathing. Without fur, oil can quickly build up on their skin, and they must be regularly cleaned to prevent acne or rashes. Luckily, most hairless cats are amenable to gentle bathing, especially if you get them used to it young. 

Vets will have recommendations, but choose a pet shampoo without a strong scent and use warm water — never hot. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and then pat them dry afterward. Because they have no fur, they need to be kept warm and not left moist. If they do get an acne breakout, use a mild antibacterial soap for pets and contact your vet if things don’t improve.

Sunscreen

Naked cats have sensitive skin that can easily get sunburned when exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Pet-safe sunscreen can help protect their skin from damage, which can lead to discomfort, pain, and even skin cancer. To avoid sunburn and associated skin problems, apply whenever they’re outside or spending a good amount of time toasting in the window.

Nail and ears

Hairless cats need help with typical things a cat does for grooming, such as nail cutting. They especially need ear cleaning. They have no hair in their ears, so they can easily have a wax build-up that blocks their ear canal entirely.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

Do hairless cats get cold?

Yes, hairless cats get cold easily and need help regulating their body temperature. In the winter, it’s good to have some cozy cat outfits and sweaters for them or make sure your home is appropriately heated. If the temperature is too cold for you to be comfortable naked in, it’s probably too cold for your hairless cat.

Are hairless cats hypoallergenic?

There’s no such thing as a fully hypoallergenic cat, but because hairless cats don’t shed, that can help with some allergy sensitivities. All breeds of cats can produce the protein that causes allergic reactions in their dander, saliva, and even their urine. Some cats within select breeds, including some hairless cats, naturally produce less of the protein that triggers cat allergies in people. Regularly bathing your cat will clean up dander and other protein-carrying dust on the cat’s body.

Are there different types of hairless cats?

Yep, there are different types (breeds) of hairless cats. The ten most common types of hairless cat include the Canadian Sphynx, Bambino, Donskoy, Dwelf, Elf, Lykoi, Minskin, Peterbald, Pixiebob, and Ukrainian Levkoy.

Many hairless cats are available for adoption at local shelters and rescue groups across the United States. Start your search for a friendly hairless cat at adoptapet.com

References

Vivovet Bambino

TICA Donskoy

TICA Sphynx

About Peterbalds

Genetics: Sphynx Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Histological and dermatoscopic description of sphynx cat skin

Why are Sphynx cats hairless?

All About  the Sphynx

About the Ukrainian Levkoy 

Ivan Gener / Stocksy
by John Durfee

Like most young boys, I always wanted a dog of my own. As an adult, I still wanted to have a furry best friend by my side. I recently moved into a larger home and I finally had the open space and backyard to have a dog. But I also lead a very active lifestyle; I exercise at least four times a week and weekends are usually outdoor excursions in the high desert hiking, running, or camping. I wanted to have a companion who could keep up with me and would also enjoy the constant activity as much as I do. After doing my research, I came across seven breeds that would be ideal for an active individual like me.

Seven Breeds for the Active Pet Parent

Siberian Huskies

These grand and majestic animals are also known as sled dogs. Having been bred to pull Inuits across vast distances, this is your ultimate long-distance breed. If you do plan on running with a Husky, it’s best to do so in moderate to cold climates as their thick coats can easily lead to overheating. They’re gentle but very curious creatures so you should always keep them leashed as you may end up having to chase them down for a long period if they see something that catches their attention.

Foxhounds

Not nearly as popular as other breeds, this is an old English Hunting dog. The aristocracy used to hunt with them in packs as they were known for running many a mile on the chase of a scent. They have a great sense of smell and are very friendly and active in demeanor. You wouldn’t have any issue running in open and populated areas with this breed, as they’re bred to focus and won’t spook easily.

Viszla

Originating from Hungary, Viszla are beautiful animals. They have sleek rust-colored coats and the build of a greyhound. They are originally pointing and retrieving dogs, but they have great endurance and energy for any running/hiking activities. They are very protective (their nickname is “Velcro dog”), so you won’t need to worry about them running off if you’re on a trail or in a park. This is one of the few breeds of mid-size dogs that is not prone to Hip Dysplasia, a form of joint arthritis. They have a lifespan of 12-14 years.

Boykin Spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel is a friendly, social dog that does best in a family environment with lots of outdoor activity. They were originally trained to be water-hunting dogs, so they are equally adept at being at the beach as they are on dry land. They have curly coats that grow to medium length and are a dark brown/chocolate color. Because of their coats, they’re best suited to colder climates. Regular coat maintenance is a must as their fur can easily tangle and catch a lot of natural debris.

Doberman

Carved into our collective consciousness as guard dogs or police dogs, Dobermans make a great choice for women. Because of their aggressive appearance and stance, with a Doberman, you’ll feel more secure about running at night. Dobermans are intelligent and highly protective, so you’ll need to train them young. Once they are properly trained, you’ll have no issue taking them outdoors and in public.

Newfoundland

If you do a lot of activity on the waterside, such as swimming or surfing, you can’t get much better than a Newfoundland. Newfoundlands are long-coated water dogs who love being in and around water. They’re very large dogs and can be anywhere between 100 to 150 pounds with white and black coats. They were bred for pulling in fishing nets and other heavy equipment. They’re a gentle breed and have been known to rescue people from drowning. They are known for their endurance and can be in the water with you all day long. They will probably want to stay even when you’re surfed out.

English Setter

This is another breed well suited to the aquatic environment. Visually, they have the build of a golden retriever with the color of a Dalmatian – black and white spots. They’re high energy and great for moderate to cold environments. They don’t have quite the running endurance as compared to Viszla or Rhodesian Ridgebacks, but a great all-around breed if you split your time between beach and trail.

Don’t forget mixed breeds

Often, the best companions are adopted from local shelters. Not only will you be giving a loving animal a much-needed home, but most mixed breeds also have lower instances of health problems like hip dysplasia. And they allow you to enjoy the benefits of several breeds. Lab mixes are known for their energy and can make excellent running companions for even top-notch athletes.

With all dog breeds, you should be aware of their foot pads and on what surface you run on. If you plan on doing runs of 5k a few times a week, try to stay on grassy areas because even smooth surfaces such as asphalt will wear down their pads quickly. Or, you can purchase running “shoes” for dogs. They may look funny but they will save your dogs’ pads in the long run. Always make sure your dog drinks lots of water beforehand and keep an eye out for overheating, as they will often run past the point of safety. Also, only run with adult dogs whose joints have fully formed.

John Durfee is a Gulf War veteran and the marketing manager for Airsplat, the nation’s largest retailer of Airsoft Guns and Airsoft Apparel.