Urošević, Milivoje and Dobrinjak, Darko and Ćupić Miladinović, Dejana and Štastna, Danka and Matejević, Nenad and Dameski, Pance and Dordević, Milena (2025) Structural and Pigmentary Characteristics of the Skin in Hairless Dog Breeds. International Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Research and Studies, 5 (5). pp. 1481-1489. ISSN 2583-049X
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Abstract
Abstract
The skin of hairless dog breeds exhibits distinct structural
and pigmentary adaptations that compensate for the absence
of a protective hair coat. Despite lacking hair, their body
surface and core temperatures remain comparable to those
of coated dogs. The epidermis of hairless breeds is notably
thicker, serving as a compensatory barrier that protects
against overheating and excessive cooling. Melanin plays a
crucial role not only in pigmentation but also in
thermoregulation and antioxidant defense. Genetic
mechanisms governing pigmentation involve complex
interactions between multiple loci (E, A, B, C, and K),
which regulate the production and type of melanin.
Hairlessness itself is a dominant genetic trait associated with
specific mutations—particularly in the FOXI3 gene—which
affect the development of hair, teeth, and other ectodermal
structures. However, in the American Hairless Terrier,
hairlessness is governed by a different, non-lethal genetic
mechanism that does not affect dentition. These findings
underscore the intricate interplay between structural
adaptation, pigment synthesis, and genetic control that
enables hairless dog breeds to maintain physiological
balance and effective protection despite the absence of coat.
Keywords: Hairless Dog Breeds, Epidermis, Melanin, Genetic Mechanisms
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | Scientific Fields (Frascati) > Agricultural Sciences > Veterinary science |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Veterinary Medicine |
| Depositing User: | Mrs Natasha Petrovska |
| Date Deposited: | 17 Sep 2026 10:57 |
| Last Modified: | 17 Sep 2026 10:57 |
| URI: | https://eprints.uklo.edu.mk/id/eprint/11798 |
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