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

Hairless cats have long won the love of people around the world, but hairless dogs are still a wonder. However, one of the most interesting breeds - the Hairless Peruvian dog, which is also called the Inca Orchid or Peruvian Crested, is already well known. Those who met her note her cute and extravagant appearance. In addition, such dogs are very smart, attached to their owners and become excellent friends for humans.

Information about the time of appearance of the hairless Peruvian dog is ambiguous. Someone thinks 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 mentions of the breed are found, presented in the form of frescoes and rock paintings, which, as you know, appeared before the Incas became known.

There is no definite information about the appearance of this dog in Peru either. According to some reports, the bald dogs were brought in 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 type of "Peruvians" were considered sacred animals there, along with several other breeds, 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 arrival of the conquistadors.There they were crossed with ordinary dogs that have a full-fledged hairline. By the end of the 19th 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 been officially confirmed.

The Peruvian authorities have been restoring the breed for almost a century. It was officially recognized by the International Cynological Federation in 1981. The standard was adopted 13 years later. And already in 2001, the dogs became widespread and famous in their homeland. 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 on top and heal with the warmth of their body, relieving unpleasant sensations.

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

Males have an almost square body format. The female breed is more elongated. Their set can be called average, the back is straight or slightly convex, the stomach is tucked up. The breed standard assumes not only naked representatives of the Inca orchid, but also those who have normal hair.

In size, these dogs are of 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 ranges from 4 to 8 kilograms.

According to the standards, the head of the animal is somewhat similar to that of a wolf. Indicators of the length of the muzzle and skull are approximately the same, there is no pronounced occipital protuberance. The neck of "Peruvians" 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 with wool, they have a full dentition. Naked individuals are characterized by 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 attentively and slightly wary. Eye color varies by color and can range from yellow to black. Pointed ears are medium in size, set on medium, not hanging, and sometimes standing. The tail has a low set, tapering towards the tip. Paws resemble a hare, straight and not too long.

When a Hairless Peruvian dog is walking, it feels like it is mincing. This is because her step is short enough. However, in general, the dogs move quite quickly.

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

In bald dogs, small patches of hair on the body are acceptable. They can be located in the head, paws or tail. On the back, single hairs can be observed. The woolen cover can be varied both in type (curly or straight) and in color. The most prized among them are short-haired smooth dogs.

The first thing that dog breeders note in the character of the Peruvian Crested is equanimity. They have a strong sense of self-esteem and are a little skeptical of the world around them. Dogs are a bit moody and spoiled, however they are undeniably smart and can easily adapt to their new lifestyle. They can take part in any events, walk with pleasure, go on a trip or lie on the couch with their beloved host. You can take them with you to public places.

It is impossible not to note the loyalty of the dogs and their exclusive affection for the owner. They try to never lose sight of the owner and stay close to him. They are very wary of unfamiliar people and do not tolerate other people's touch. Even if a stranger manages to stroke the "Peruvian", she will definitely 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 animals that appear in the field of 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 babies too much and do not allow them to squeeze them. Best of all, these dogs feel in the circle of people leading a lifestyle of average activity, and among children, adolescents are most tolerant.

These dogs can be very different in character. For example, the smaller the dog, the softer and more attached it will be. Large ones tend to behave more calmly and tolerate solitude. Representatives of the breed with wool are less capricious and more agreeable.

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 acquire such a dog.

Experts do not recommend buying such dogs from ads. They are considered exclusive, so unscrupulous sellers can pass off a similar dog without a breed or a cross between a "Peruvian".

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

Interesting fact: in one litter, parents can have both naked and hairy 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 a wide variety of colors. Most of them are missing some or all of their teeth, which is also a feature of the breed.

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

It is imperative to check the dog's metric and veterinary passport, which should contain complete information about the vaccination carried out. 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 a given breed, this must also be reflected in the documents.

Compliance with standards is another mandatory requirement when buying a puppy. It should be borne in mind that there may be more milk teeth than will later be molars. You need to examine the baby and pay attention to his appearance. The skin should be clean and dry, free from scratches and bumps. The puppy must be curious and actively interested in the world around him.

Despite the fact that there are few nurseries in our country, it is not difficult to find a healthy and affectionate pet if desired. However, it must be remembered that such a dog cannot be cheap, so you cannot chase a low price, in the overwhelming majority of cases this is a deception 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 cold weather, and burn under the rays of the scorching sun in hot weather. However, this problem is solvable. Before you go for a walk, you must dress the "Peruvian". In summer, it should be a T-shirt, and in winter, a warm jacket. You will also need shoes so that the dog does not freeze his 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, which includes clothes that are comfortable in size and appropriate for the weather outside. When the cold weather sets in, you need to think about the headdress. The cap will help protect the animal's thin auricle from frostbite.

These dogs are quite active, so they need regular walks. They love to run and chat with other dogs. The main thing is to be careful and avoid threats to the life and health of your pet.

There are no particular difficulties in caring for naked "Peruvians". Water procedures are required to be carried out as needed. Usually the animal is washed approximately once every 2 months. You will need special shampoos, as their delicate skin is very sensitive and allergic reactions may occur if the wrong products are used.

An oral examination should also be performed once a week. The nails are cut once every 1.5-2 weeks. This procedure cannot be neglected, since they grow very quickly in representatives of this breed.

Dogs of the Inca Orchid breed are demanding in nutrition. Experts recommend feeding them with special dry and wet food of at least super-premium class. It is best to consult a veterinarian, he will write out the nutrition according to the pet's needs. Another feature of these dogs is the loss of teeth with age. When this happens, it is necessary to reconsider the diet and completely switch to wet food, or start soaking dry food.

Natural nutrition can be difficult. The fact is that bald dogs are extremely finicky. In addition, they are characterized by a tendency to be overweight 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 necessarily be lean. You will also need cottage cheese and low-fat kefir. Be sure to give the dog porridge, raw vegetables, among which there are carrots and pumpkin. Saltwater fish is also useful for them, from which all bones must first be removed.

By the way, any bones are unacceptable in the diet of hairless dogs. They are also prohibited from pork, spicy, salty, smoked and fatty foods. It is imperative to supplement their nutrition with vitamin and mineral supplements.

The Peruvian Hairless Dog is very capricious, therefore, it is necessary to begin to engage in its education and socialization at a tender age. The puppy can learn to perform the simplest commands as early as 2 months. This will help avoid many behavioral problems later on.

You can take a training course from a professional dog handler, but this is not a prerequisite. The main thing is that the dog listens to its owner unquestioningly. In this case, you need to be patient, since the process will require gentleness and perseverance. The simplest commands are quick-witted dogs memorize very easily and are happy to carry them out.

However, regularity and constant repetition of commands is important. Correct performance should be encouraged by the treat. In no case should you behave rudely and cruelly towards your pet, otherwise he will withdraw into himself, take offense and stop trusting his master.

For information on the features of keeping a Peruvian hairless dog, see the next video.