The Peruvian Hairless Dog – Inca Orchid
The Rare Peru Breed from Pet of the Incas to Barack Obama
Sep 21, 2009
Its rich history could not convince Barack Obama to own one, but the Peruvian Hairless Dog is none-the-less an intriguing breed. Read on to find out more about the Peruvian Inca Orchid.
History of the Peruvian Hairless Dog
The history of the Peruvian Hairless Dog stretches back to the pre-Columbian civilizations of Peru. Before Columbus landed in South America, even before the Incas themselves, this breed could be found both roaming free and domesticated in Peru.
Archeological digs, particularly in the Peruvian coastal regions, have found ancient ceramics decorated with, or in the form of, this distinct hairless dog. These ceramics belonged to ancient civilizations such as the Moche and the Chimú, tribes which existed in Peru over 1,000 years ago.
The Incas themselves kept the Peruvian Hairless Dog as a pet, serving as both a watchdog and a hunting dog. Despite the breed pre-dating the Inca Empire, this hairless dog is also known as the Peruvian Inca Orchid. Legend has it that the Spanish Conquistadors encountered these dogs in the homes of wealthy Incas, who would decorate their houses and gardens with orchids native to Peru.
Another, though less common, name given to the Peruvian Hairless breed is the “Moonflower” dog. Vulnerable to sunburn, the dogs were kept indoors during the day and allowed to roam free in the towns and cities at night, safely keeping watch in the light of the moon.
Appearance and Characteristics of the Peruvian Hairless Dog
The most notable physical characteristic of the breed is fairly self-evident. Although hairless, some dogs may have tufts of hair on top of their heads, on their feet, and sometimes at the tip of the tail. Color ranges from various shades of brown or grey, either plain or mottled.
The Peruvian Hairless Dog is slim and athletic with ears which normally stand erect. Sizes can vary greatly. Dog height is officially measured from the floor to the ‘withers’, the highest point on a dog’s back between the shoulder blades. The Peruvian Hairless dog can range from 25 to 65cm in height.
The Peruvian Hairless Dog has a good temperament and general characteristics desirable in a pet. The “Furry Critter Network” describes the breed as such: “Lively, alert, and fast, this calm, intelligent, affectionate dog is a good pet. He is distrusting of strangers and therefore makes a good watchdog.”
The Peruvian Hairless Dog Today – And an Inca Orchid for Barack Obama?
Even in Peru, a Peruvian Hairless Dog is a rare sight these days. The Inca Orchid gene pool is small and breeding is limited. Despite being a very intelligent, loving and loyal dog, perhaps the lack of hair hinders any chance at greater popularity.
However, in 2008 a Peruvian Hairless Dog had a close encounter with global fame. US President Barack Obama was looking for a new puppy for his daughters, but the matter was complicated by the allergies suffered by ten-year-old Malia. The Peruvian Hairless Dog club had the perfect solution, and his name was Ears.
Being hairless, Inca Orchids are ideal for owners who suffer from dog allergies. As such, one was officially offered to the Obamas. Ears was a four-month-old puppy at the time, but his shot at fame was never to be realized. In 2009 a six-month-old Portuguese Water Dog called Bo took his place in the Whitehouse.
The Peruvian Hairless Dog club had none-the-less succeeded in raising the profile of the breed. A brief period in the spotlight served to draw some much needed attention towards this rare and intriguing Peruvian Hairless Dog.
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