Abyssinian sand terrier
Also known as: Abyssinian sand dog Abyssinian sand terrier Abessijnse zandterrier African elephant dog African sand dog Egyptian hairless dog Zulu sand dog
The Abyssinian sand terrier is an extinct dog breed originating from Africa. The Abyssinian sand terrier comes from Africa, and has a hairless coat. Individual Abyssinian sand terriers vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Africa
- Coat
- Hairless
- Other names
- Abyssinian sand dog Abyssinian sand terrier Abessijnse zandterrier African elephant dog African sand dog Egyptian hairless dog Zulu sand dog
About the Abyssinian sand terrier
The Abyssinian sand terrier is an extinct dog breed originating from Africa. It was bred for hunting and companionship.
Overview
African hairless dogs , also known as Abyssinian sand terriers and African sand dogs among many other names, were hairless dogs from Africa . It is unknown if any examples still exist. This "breed" of dog is known for being “semi-wild”, meaning they tend to follow rather than live with the cattle breeders; though they occasionally serve as valuable companions on hunting trips. The many names of this “breed” include the words Egyptian, Abyssinian, and Zulu, which simply suggests that the genes for hairlessness have appeared independently in multiple areas of the continent as a cooling system in high heat. A number of early European accounts from Africa mention a small hairless dog. It was described as fast moving with a short, sharp bark, and it was said to be either sandy-coloured or blue-black. Contemporary reports indicated that it may or may not have had a crest of stiff hair on its head and a tuft of hair on its tail, although photographs of it fail to show any hair. Three examples were brought to Britain in 1833 and were displayed at the London Zoo as Egyptian Hairless Dogs; a specimen dating from 1903 is preserved at the Natural History Museum at Tring in Hertfordshire , England . These accounts of the African hairless dogs suggest that they were encountered across the continent. They are believed to be extinct, although no thorough search has been conducted across Africa to confirm that they no longer exist.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Abyssinian sand terrier?
The Abyssinian sand terrier is a semi-wild dog breed known for its African hairlessness. They tend to follow cattle breeders and occasionally serve as companions on hunting trips. Their exact characteristics are unknown due to the breed's rarity, but they are often described as independent and strong-willed.
Is the Abyssinian sand terrier a good family dog?
Due to the Abyssinian sand terrier's semi-wild nature and independent personality, they may not be the best fit for families with young children. They require experienced owners who can provide proper training and socialization. General African hairless dog breeds may be more suitable for families with older children.
What health problems do Abyssinian sand terriers have?
The health problems of the Abyssinian sand terrier are unknown due to the breed's rarity. However, African hairless dog breeds are generally prone to skin issues and sun damage. Regular skin care and sun protection are essential for these breeds. Consult a veterinarian for specific guidance.
How much does a Abyssinian sand terrier puppy cost?
The cost of an Abyssinian sand terrier puppy is unknown, as the breed is likely extinct. However, rare and exotic dog breeds can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider adoption options for more affordable and available breeds.
Where do Abyssinian sand terriers come from?
The Abyssinian sand terrier comes from Africa. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Abyssinian sand terrier, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.