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Hairless dogs may have little to no fur, but that does not mean they can skip grooming. Their skin still needs protection from dryness and UV exposure, and their teeth and nails require just as much attention as any coated breed.
Many hairless breeds carry a mutation in the FOXI3 gene, which can affect tooth development and increase the likelihood of premature tooth loss. Regular brushing can help slow that process, even though the loss is not caused by typical dental disease. No hair never means no maintenance.
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Video source: Norcalgrooming Academy
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Some owners notice that hairless dogs’ nails grow faster than those of other breeds. Keeping them trimmed prevents painful breakage, slipping on smooth floors, and posture issues. When you build a routine around skin care, dental health, and nail maintenance, you give your dog a more comfortable and healthier life overall.
Bathing a hairless dog goes far beyond a quick rinse. Professional groomer Kim Kier, who runs Little Barks Boutique in Columbia, South Carolina, says the process requires a careful, step-by-step approach. She uses a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner designed to replenish the oils their bare skin produces naturally.
After rinsing, she applies a light layer of protective oil before drying. Skip the air-drying temptation and pat your dog gently with a towel instead. Leaving them wet can cause shivering from the temperature drop, and trapped moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi on sensitive skin.
Start by letting your dog sniff out the clippers or grinder. Pair calm exploration with high-value treats so the tool becomes something positive rather than frightening. Next, gently touch the device to each paw without turning it on, rewarding every relaxed moment.
Once your dog is comfortable, clip or grind one nail at a time. Gradually work up to multiple nails per session, then full paws. If the process feels overwhelming, a licensed groomer can handle it safely. Consistency and patience turn a necessary chore into a calm part of their routine.
Because of the FOXI3 gene mutation, hairless dogs are more prone to abnormal tooth growth and earlier tooth loss. Daily brushing is the most effective defense, but if your dog resists, dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Always supervise chew sessions to prevent choking or digestive upset.
Hairless dogs also tend to accumulate eye and muzzle discharge more visibly since there is no fur to absorb it. Wipe the area daily with a warm, damp cotton ball to keep debris away from the tear ducts and reduce the risk of skin irritation or infection.
Sun exposure is one of the biggest risks for bare skin. Before heading outside, apply a veterinarian-approved sunscreen to exposed areas, especially the nose, belly, and ears. For everyday hydration, Kier recommends a light application of baobab oil to lock in moisture and shield the skin from environmental stressors.
Most hairless breeds have upright ears, which naturally allow better airflow and lower infection risk. Still, check them weekly for wax buildup or odor. A soft cloth dampened with a mild mineral oil solution can gently lift debris without irritating the ear canal.
FAQ
Focus on three things: moisturizing the skin, brushing the teeth, and checking the ears and eyes. A short daily wipe-down, a few minutes of tooth brushing, and a weekly nail trim will cover most of the essentials. That keeps have a hairless dog here s how to groom them properly tied to a real home-care routine instead of guesswork.
Yes, but they need protection. Apply dog-safe sunscreen before outdoor time and limit prolonged exposure during peak UV hours. A light cotton shirt can also help prevent sunburn on sensitive areas. For have a hairless dog here s how to groom them properly, the safer version is usually the one that leaves less cleanup and less stress afterward.
Many hairless breeds carry the FOXI3 gene mutation, which can affect jaw and tooth development. It is not caused by poor diet or neglect, but regular brushing and veterinary checkups can help preserve what they have. For have a hairless dog here s how to groom them properly, the safer version is usually the one that leaves less cleanup and less stress afterward.