Peruvian Hairless Dog
OriginPeru
SizeVaries
Lifespan11–14 years
GroupSpitz & Primitive
Summary
The Peruvian Hairless Dog (Perro sin pelo del Perú) is a pre-Columbian breed from Peru, with ceramic representations dating back 3,000 years in the Mochica, Chimú, Chancay, and Inca cultures. It exists in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and in a coated variety (with short hair), resulting from the hairlessness genetics. It was declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation by the Peruvian government.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Varies
- Height (male)
- 25–65 cm
- Height (female)
- 25–65 cm
- Weight (male)
- 4–8 kg
- Weight (female)
- 4–25 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 11–14 years
- Coat
- Hairless variety: total absence of hair, smooth and warm skin; coated variety: short and smooth coat over the entire body
- Common Colors
- Black, slate, elephant, bluish, grey, black, red, golden, yellow, pinkish, or spotted
Temperament & Personality
The Peruvian Hairless Dog is an elegant, good-tempered, loyal, and affectionate dog with the family. It tends to be more reserved with strangers than many breeds. It is very active and needs regular exercise. Its exposed skin requires special care with sun protection in summer and warmth in winter in cold climates.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 2–4 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Canine acne
- Dental problems (incomplete dentition in the hairless variety due to genetic linkage)
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin sensitivity
- Recommended Health Tests
- Dental evaluation
- Eye examination
- Hip evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
