Peruvian hairless dogs: description of the breed, rules for its maintenance

Naked cats have long won the love of people around the world, but bald dogs are still outlandish. However, one of the most interesting breeds - the naked Peruvian dog, which is also called the Inca orchid or the Peruvian crested, is already well known. Those who met her, note a cute and extravagant appearance. In addition, these dogs are very smart, attached to their owners and become great friends for humans.

Information about the time of appearance of the hairless Peruvian dog is ambiguous. Someone believes that this happened in the III century BC, according to other sources, the event dates back to the XIV century AD. It was during this period that the first mention of the breed was found, presented in the form of frescoes and cave paintings, which, as you know, appeared before it became known about the Incas.

There is no definite information about the appearance of this dog in Peru either. According to some reports, bald dogs were brought by immigrant Chinese. According to others, we are talking about Asian immigrants who crossed the Bering Strait on their way to the country. Someone believes that the breed originates from Africa, justifying this by the fact that due to the unusual appearance, “Peruvians” were considered sacred animals there along with several other breeds, they could take part in rituals and became a symbol of worship.

Another common name for these funny animals is the Peruvian moon dog. At the very beginning of the 16th century, they began to be found exclusively in rural areas. This is due to the advent of the conquistadors.There they crossed with ordinary dogs with full hair. By the end of the XIX century, the breed was almost on the verge of extinction, so the authorities of Peru became interested in it. Since then, the data is much more accurate, and the history of the breed has official confirmation.

The Peruvian authorities restored the breed for almost a century. The International Kennel Federation officially recognized it in 1981. The standard was adopted 13 years later. And already in 2001, dogs gained distribution and fame at home. However, even now, the breed is considered quite rare.

Dog breeders note the incredible talent of these dogs to feel sore spots. In such cases, they gently lie down on top and heal with the heat of their body, removing unpleasant sensations.

Speaking about the appearance of the “Peruvians”, it is first of all necessary to note the absence of wool. Dogs are very harmoniously built, graceful and at the same time very fast and possess sufficient strength. Their physique is very delicate and elegant, absolutely not massive.

Males have an almost square body format. Female representatives are more elongated in length. Their complexion can be called medium, the back is straight or slightly convex, the stomach is tightened. The breed standard implies not only the naked representatives of the Inca orchid, but also those who have a normal hairline.

In size, these dogs come in three types: large, medium and small. The largest of them grow from 51 to 65 centimeters and weigh from 12 to 30 kilograms. Average representatives of the breed have a height of 41 to 50 centimeters and a weight of 8 to 12 kilograms. And, finally, the smallest individuals reach a maximum of 40 centimeters in height, while their body weight is from 4 to 8 kilograms.

According to standards, the animal’s head is somewhat reminiscent of a wolf. The lengths of the muzzle and skull are approximately the same, there is no pronounced occipital protuberance. The neck of the Peruvian is thin, fragile and rather long. The muzzle is slightly narrowed, the nose repeats the color of the skin or coat.

As for the representatives of the breed having wool, they have a complete dentition. Naked individuals differ in the absence of teeth, partial or complete. This feature is influenced by the hairless gene.

Dogs have small almond-shaped eyes, they look at the world carefully and slightly wary. Eye color depends on the color and can vary from yellow to black. Pointed ears of medium size, set medium, do not hang, and sometimes stand. The tail has a low landing, tapering closer to the tip. Feet resemble hare, straight and not too long.

When a naked Peruvian dog moves, it feels like it is mincing. This is because its step is quite short. However, in general, dogs move quite quickly.

As for the color of the skin, there can be many different variations. On a monophonic body there may be specks of a pink or white shade, but by the standard there are no more than a third of them, it looks very impressive and unusual.

In bald dogs, small areas of hair on the body are acceptable. They can be located in the area of ​​the head, paws or tail. On the back, single hairs can be observed. Wool can be varied both in type (curly or straight) and in color. Shorthair smooth dogs are most valued among them.

The first thing that dog breeders note in the character of the Peruvian crested is equanimity. They have a strong self-esteem and are a bit skeptical of the world around them. Dogs are a bit capricious and spoiled, but they are undoubtedly smart and can easily adapt to a new lifestyle. They can take part in any events, enjoy walking, going on a trip or lying on the couch with their beloved host. They can be taken with you to public places.

It is impossible not to note the loyalty of the dogs and their exceptional affection for the owner. They try to never let the owner out of sight and stay close to him. They are very wary of unfamiliar people and cannot stand other people's touches. Even if an outsider manages to stroke the “Peruvian woman”, she will certainly make it clear that she does not like it.

These bald dogs are considered excellent guards and have a very developed hunting instinct, so they immediately try to catch up with cats or other small-sized animals that come into view. However, they may well get along in the same apartment with a variety of pets.

It is better not to have hairless dogs in a family with small children. They do not like kids too much and do not allow them to squeeze themselves. These dogs feel best in the circle of people leading a mode of life of medium activity, and among children they are most tolerant of adolescents.

These dogs can vary greatly in character. For example, the smaller the dog, the softer and more attached it will be. Large ones most often behave more calmly and tolerate solitude well. Representatives of the breed with wool are less capricious and more accommodating.

Despite the fact that the breed has long been recognized by the International Federation of Cynologists, it has not yet become widespread in Russia. However, this does not mean that it is impossible to purchase such a dog.

Experts do not recommend buying such dogs for ads. They are considered exclusive, therefore unscrupulous sellers can pass off a similar dog without a breed or a crossbreed for a “Peruvian”.

It should be borne in mind that outwardly puppies often do not much resemble their parents. They are difficult to distinguish from dogs of other breeds. At a tender age, they have short legs, wrinkled skin and small size. However, it can sometimes be noted that their face is very much like a wolf. Other breeds do not have such a feature, which suggests that it is “Peruvian” in front of you.

An interesting fact: in one litter, parents can have both naked and woolly babies. Moreover, the hair can come off during the first molt, leaving only a small forelock and a brush on the tail on the dog’s body. Puppies can have the most diverse color. Most of them lack some or all of their teeth, which is also a feature of the breed.

The best age at which to get a bald dog is from 6 to 8 weeks. These dogs are distinguished by the need for the earliest possible socialization. You also need to start educating them as soon as possible.

Be sure to check the metric and veterinary passport of the dog, which should contain complete information about the vaccination. The metric indicates the full name of the animal, information about its parents, data of the breeder. A generic mark or identification chip is a prerequisite for this breed, this should also be reflected in the documents.

Compliance with standards is another requirement required when buying a puppy. It must be borne in mind that there can be more milk teeth than subsequently will be molars. It is necessary to examine the baby and pay attention to its appearance. The skin should be clean and dry, without scratches and abscesses. The puppy should be curious and actively interested in the outside world.

Despite the fact that there are few nurseries in our country, it is not difficult to find a healthy and affectionate pet if you wish. However, it must be remembered that such a dog cannot be cheap, therefore you can not chase a low price, in the vast majority of cases this is a fraud of unscrupulous sellers.

Dogs of the Inca Orchid breed can only live at home. They feel uncomfortable on the street, because due to the lack of wool they will freeze in the cold and burn in the hot under the rays of the scorching sun. However, this problem is solvable. Before you go for a walk, “Peruvian” must be worn. In summer it should be a T-shirt, and in winter - a warm jacket. Shoes will also be needed so that the dog does not freeze the paws.

Hairless dogs require warm clothing even when the air temperature drops below +5 degrees. Clothing saves them from general hypothermia. Peruvians will need their own wardrobe, including clothing of a comfortable size and appropriate to the weather outside. When the cold comes, you need to think about a headdress. The hat will help protect the animal’s thin auricle from frostbite.

These dogs are quite active, so they need regular walks. They like to run and chat with other dogs. The main thing is to be careful and not to threaten the life and health of a pet.

There are no special difficulties in caring for naked Peruvians. Water procedures are required as needed. Usually the animal is washed about 1 time in 2 months. Special shampoos will be needed, as their delicate skin is very sensitive and allergic reactions may occur on it if the wrong products are used.

Also, once a week, an oral examination should be performed. Claws are cut once every 1.5-2 weeks. This procedure cannot be neglected, since they grow very quickly among representatives of this breed.

Dogs of the Inca Orchid breed are demanding in nutrition. Experts recommend feeding them with special dry and wet foods of the class no less than super-premium. It is best to consult a veterinarian, he will prescribe food according to the needs of the pet. Another feature of these dogs is tooth loss with age. When this happens, you need to review the diet and completely switch to wet food, or start soaking dry.

Natural nutrition can be difficult. The fact is that bald dogs are extremely finicky. In addition, they are prone to fullness and the presence of allergic reactions.

In any case, if a natural diet is chosen, the owner will have to take care of its necessary components. Peruvians need boiled meat, and it must be necessarily lean. You will also need cottage cheese and low-fat kefir. Be sure to give the dog cereals, raw vegetables, among which there is carrot and pumpkin. Sea fish is also useful to them, from which all bones must first be removed.

By the way, any bones are unacceptable in the diet of naked dogs. They also banned pork, spicy, salty, smoked and fatty foods. Be sure to supplement their diet with vitamin and mineral supplements.

The Peruvian hairless dog is very wayward, therefore it is necessary to begin to engage in its upbringing and socialization at a tender age. The puppy can learn to execute the simplest commands as early as 2 months. This will help to avoid many behavioral problems in the future.

You can conduct a training course with a professional dog handler, but this is not a prerequisite. The main thing is that the dog unconditionally listened to its owner. In this case, be patient, as the process will require softness and perseverance. Clever dogs remember the simplest commands very easily and carry them out with pleasure.

However, regularity and constant repetition of commands is important. Proper execution should be encouraged by goodies. In no case should you behave rudely and cruelly towards a pet, otherwise it will become self-enclosed, offended and cease to trust its owner.

About what features of the content of the Peruvian hairless dog, see the next video.