Peruvian Inca Orchid
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Fast Facts
| Country of Origin: | Peru |
| AKC Group: | Rare |
| UKC Group: | Sighthound |
| Use today: | Companion |
| Life Span: | 10 to 13 years |
| Color: | Solid colors (commonly dark gray, bronze) or mottled patterns. The Coated variety is often white with patches of color. |
| Coat: | There are two varieties, the Hairless and the Coated (covered in silky hair of moderate length). |
| Grooming: | The Hairless must be protected from sunburn, and the skin kept soft and healthy. The Coated variety needs regular brushing to keep it free of tangles. |
| Size: | Medium Dog Breed |
| Height: | Males and females should be between 15.5 and 20 inches in height, |
| Weight: | Between 25 and 35 pounds. |
The Peruvian Inca Orchid (PIO) is an ancient breed (a.k.a. Perro sin pello del Peru) believed to have originated in Asia. The Peruvian Inca Orchid has a nature as beautiful as its name. Tranquil and intelligent, this striking hairless breed radiates warmth. The medium-sized sighthound was highly prized in Inca culture, portrayed on pottery and found in graves beside its owners. PIOs also come in a powderpuff variety, but the Incas valued the hairless hounds more than the coated. The dogs were kept indoors to protect their hairless bodies from sunburn, which is still a good idea today. When the Spaniards conquered Peru, they discovered the hairless dogs in Inca homes among the orchid blooms and named them Perros Flora, which means Flower Dogs. From there the name changed to Peruvian Inca Orchid. Dogs and bitches should be between 15.5 and 20 inches in height, with weight between 25 and 35 pounds. They have a lovely temperament, being gentle and fun loving. Like other hounds, they are intelligent, reserved with strangers and independent. Once they are familiar with a person, however, they are affectionate. Obviously, not much grooming is required, but oil in the diet helps keep the skin soft and supple, and of course, the skin should be protected from sun damage.
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Breed Warz
Peruvian Inca Orchid Products