Peruvian Hairless Dogs are one of the rarest breeds of dogs in the world. They were discovered when the Spanish invaded Peru in the early 1500's and were reportedly adopted onto Spanish merchant ships. Peruvians then made their way across the world into Europe and America were the breed has lived on. However, it is thought that there is only one thousand left in the world.
Peruvian Hairless Dogs are breed in three sizes and two varieties: small, medium and large and can either be coated or hairless. It is due to the hairless variety that the Peruvian Inca Orchid is most commonly know as the Peruvian Hairless Dog and its name in Peruvian is "Al'co Calato" meaning "naked dog"; however this name is seldom used.
Coated Peruvians can come in all variety of coat colours and eye colours and often have stunning combinations. Colours can range from black and silver to chocolate and tan or blonde. And their eye colours are often in harmony with their coat.
Hairless Peruvians can either be completely hairless or present with a small amount of hair on their head, feet and tail. Interestingly, Hairless Peruvians seldom have full dentition as a "side-effect" of their genetic alopecia. Much the same as the coated variety hairless Peruvians also range in coat and eye colours, from blacks and greys to copper. These wonderful dogs are truly a sight to behold.
Peruvian Hairless Dogs are a wonderful pet dog and their caution of strangers makes them an excellent guardian. They also have fantastic stamina and excel in sports such as lure coursing and hunting.
Overall, Peruvians are truly a fantastic breed that offer so much. A wonderful companion, guardian and hunter with striking beauty and a long history. We must ensure that this breed beautiful and rare breed survives.