Peruvian Hairless
(Inca Orchid / Viringo)
ORIGIN AND HISTORY
Peruvian Hairless - naked dog, also known as “Perro sin Pelo del Peru”
These beautiful primitive, ancient sight hounds originate from Peru, known in the Moche and Chimu cultures for more than 3000 years they are one of the oldest dog, and most fascinating breeds in the world representing a rich culture and history they are not just rare they are “a living Inca treasure”. Peruvian Hairless are Peru’s only indigenous breed and recognized as Peru’s national treasure, they are protected by the Peruvian government. They were considered sacred by the Incas often living alongside royalty. In discovery of archaeological periods of Pre-Inca times unlike many modern breeds that were “created” by mixing dogs in the 19th century, the Peruvian Hairless Dog is a primitive breed. This means it developed naturally in the isolation of the Peruvian coast and Andes over 3,000 years ago, evolving to survive specific climatic conditions long before European arrival. They are often seen in cultural festivals, historic events and museums around Peru. They are not just pets, they are part of Peru’s heritage.
Peruvians are considered sacred and believed to promote healing properties, it was believed that the warmth of the dog helped ease pain.
Peruvians - 3 sizes varieties
Small ranging in size from 25 to 41 cm (9.75 to 16.25 in)
weighing approximately 4 to 8 kg (8.75 to 17.75 lb.)
Medium ranging in size from 41 to 51 cm (16.25 to 20 in)
weighting approximately 8 to 12 kg (17.75 to 26.5 lb.)
Large ranging in size from 51 to 65 cm (20 to 25.5 in)
weighing approximately 12 to 30 kg (26.5 to 66.25 lb.)
Peruvians distinguished by it’s mostly hairless body which have skin colors ranging from pink to grey to dark brown often with spots. They may have tufts of hair on their heads, tails and paws. Up to 20% white marks are acceptable. One-third of the breed also come in a full coat of fur or coated variety. Although the Hairless is easier with allergies they are not entirely hypoallergenic.
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BREED CHARACTERISTICS & TEMPERAMENTS
Beyond their striking lack of fur, these dogs are celebrated for their distinctive sighthound temperament. They possess the anatomy of an elite athlete: a deep chest for maximum lung capacity, a tucked waist, and powerful, slender legs. This physical structure makes them exceptionally fast and agile. Mentally, they are complex; they are not instant friends with everyone. They maintain a dignified aloofness with strangers but form an unbreakable, intense bond with their owners often seeking physical closeness, warmth and comfort from their owners.. They are vigilant guardians of the home and sensitive emotional companions, often described by owners as having a almost human like understanding of their family’s moods. They adapt well to various living situations, including apartments with a daily exercise regiment.
The Peruvian Hairless Dog temperament is best described as primitive, intelligent, and fiercely loyal. Unlike domesticated breeds that have been selected for centuries to be universally friendly (like Retrievers), the Peruvian retains a survivalist instinct. They are naturally suspicious of strangers and will alert their owners to anything unusual in their environment. However, this aloofness melts away with their family. They are known to be incredibly affectionate, often bonding intensely with one person in the household whom they will shadow relentlessly.
One of the most important facts about the Peruvian Hairless Dog is their intolerance for isolation. They are “Velcro dogs” in the truest sense; they suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They crave skin to skin contact, often burrowing under blankets to sleep against their owner’s body. Regarding the Peruvian Hairless Dog hypoallergenic claim, they are indeed an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. While no dog is 100% allergen free, the lack of fur and undercoat means there is virtually no dander floating in the air. For many households, the Peruvian Hairless Dog hypoallergenic quality is the deciding factor in ownership. Because they do not have hair to shed, they do not spread allergens like pollen, dust, and mold spores that typically get trapped in a dog’s coat. Furthermore, the absence of fur means they are not carriers of fleas or ticks in the way coated dogs are, reducing the chemical load needed for pest control. For someone with asthma or allergies, a Peruvian Inca Orchid can be a life changing companion.
The Peruvian Hairless Dog lifespan is notably long, typically 12 to 14 years, owing to its status as a robust primitive breed. However, Peruvian Hairless Dog health problems do exist and are mostly related to their unique genetics. Skin issues are the most common complaint; without hair, the skin is exposed to the elements, leading to dry skin, acne (especially in adolescence), and cuts from rough play.
This breed can be challenging for novice dog owners due to their level of intelligence, sophistication and sensitivity they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Harsh discipline can lead to fear or anxiety. Early socialization is crucial, they typically get along well with older children and dogs when properly introduced.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
Caring for Peruvian Inca Orchid hairless dogs is more like caring for a human child than a typical dog. Their skincare routine is paramount. They require regular baths with gentle, oatmeal based shampoos to keep pores clean and prevent blackheads. Exfoliation is also necessary to remove dead skin cells that would normally be shed with hair. In the summer, broad spectrum, dog safe sunscreen is mandatory for any time spent outdoors to prevent painful burns.
In the winter, the care shifts to thermal protection requiring clothing, footwear and protective outer layers to shield them from frigid temperatures to avoid frostbite or skin damage, they have zero natural insulation. They require pajamas for sleeping and waterproof, windproof coats for walks. Without protection they are susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite in temperature that coated dogs can tolerate.
Dog safe sunscreen is a requirement for skin protection from sunburn and other environmental factors. Regular baths with gentle oatmeal based shampoos to keep pores clean, preventing blackheads will support healthy skin care, along with routine exfoliation to remove dead skin cells serves as part of a mandatory grooming process and essential to maintain good health and hygiene.
Dental Care and missing teeth in the hairless variety a peculiar genetic trait of the hairless Peruvian dog is its incomplete dentition. The gene that strips the dog of its hair is linked to the development of teeth. Peruvian hairless will almost always be missing premolars and sometimes molars. This is not a sign of poor health or old age; it is a breed standard characteristic. The coated variety of the breed must have a full set of teeth.
The Peruvian Hairless are rare outside of South America, and the community of preservation breeders is small.
They are a uniquely beautiful and loving breed that thrives on companionship and interaction, making them wonderful additions for those who can provide a loving, supportive home-life.
Due to the breeds scarcity, It’s critical to ensure ethical breeding practices to support the preservation and protection of this rare, ancient and primitive breed. Peruvian Hairless (previously listed under Viringo) were recently accepted and approved as a recognized breed with the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) July 2024. Raven’s Ridge is honored to represent the Peruvian Hairless in Canada. We are actively collaborating with breeders throughout North America to promote and establish healthy bloodlines in Canada. Raven’s Ridge is deeply humbled to be the first registered breeder listed in the CKC puppy listings.