Dog Breeds - Peruvian Inca Orchid

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed displays towards family members or familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while others are warm and friendly towards everyone they know treating them like their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The degree to which a particular dog breed can tolerate and be patient with children's behavior, along with its general friendliness towards families is a crucial consideration. It is vital to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who may lack prior exposure to canines.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall friendliness of a particular breed towards other dogs is an essential factor to consider. It is important to always supervise and carefully manage interactions and introductions between dogs. However, certain breeds naturally possess a greater inclination to get along with their canine counterparts, whether it be in the comfort of their own home or when out and about in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a specific breed tends to shed is an important aspect to consider. Breeds with a higher shedding tendency will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, they are more likely to trigger allergies related to pet dander and may require extra efforts in terms of vacuuming and using lint rollers to keep up with the shed hairs.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
It is crucial to consider the grooming needs of a breed including bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. The frequency of these tasks will vary depending on the breed. When determining the grooming effort required, it is important to assess the time, patience and budget you can allocate for this type of care. It's worth noting that all breeds, regardless of their coat type, require regular nail trimming to ensure their overall well-being.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool is an important consideration. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that have a tendency to leave trails of slobber on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes might not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Hairless, Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers is an important factor to consider. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, there are breeds that are generally enthusiastic and eager to meet and interact with new people whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppy stage is an important consideration. Certain breeds will maintain their desire to play games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They will actively engage in such activities and enjoy them. However, there are breeds that tend to be more content with relaxing on the couch and spending quality time with their owners, rather than actively seeking out playtime.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The tendency of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is an important characteristic to consider. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds have a natural inclination to be vigilant and notify their owners of unfamiliar activity. Moreover, these breeds are also likely to become more accepting of strangers who enter their house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change is a crucial aspect to consider. This encompasses various factors such as adjustments to different living conditions, tolerance of noise levels, adaptability to different weather conditions, coping with changes in the daily schedule and overall resilience to variations in day-to-day life. It's important to assess a breed's ability to handle these changes when considering which breed may be the best fit for your lifestyle.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things are important considerations when choosing a breed. Certain breeds have a natural inclination to please their owners and are eager to learn and follow commands making the training process easier. On the other hand, there are breeds that may have a more independent nature and prefer to do things on their own terms, which can make training more challenging. Understanding a breed's level of trainability and their inclination to learn is essential in determining the right fit for your training style and expectations.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed are important factors to consider. High-energy breeds are enthusiastic and always ready for their next adventure. They thrive on physical activities such as running, jumping and playing, requiring ample exercise throughout the day to keep them satisfied. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. They are perfectly content to spend their time lazing around and enjoying peaceful snoozes on the couch. Understanding a breed's energy level and exercise needs is crucial for ensuring their overall well-being and happiness.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization is an important aspect to consider when choosing a breed. Some breeds tend to bark or howl frequently, often reacting to every passer-by or even birds by the window. On the other hand, there are breeds that only bark in specific situations, such as when they sense a potential threat. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds can still communicate in other ways using alternative sounds to express themselves. Understanding a breed's vocalization tendencies is essential in selecting a breed that aligns with your preferences and living situation.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation requirements of a breed should be taken into consideration for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs, with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities, typically have a higher need for mental stimulation. Without sufficient mental exercise, they may become bored, restless or even engage in destructive behaviors as they seek to occupy their minds. Providing appropriate mental challenges, such as puzzle toys, training activities, or interactive games can help keep these breeds mentally stimulated and content.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed displays towards family members or familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while others are warm and friendly towards everyone they know treating them like their closest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The degree to which a particular dog breed can tolerate and be patient with children's behavior, along with its general friendliness towards families is a crucial consideration. It is vital to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who may lack prior exposure to canines.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall friendliness of a particular breed towards other dogs is an essential factor to consider. It is important to always supervise and carefully manage interactions and introductions between dogs. However, certain breeds naturally possess a greater inclination to get along with their canine counterparts, whether it be in the comfort of their own home or when out and about in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that a specific breed tends to shed is an important aspect to consider. Breeds with a higher shedding tendency will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, they are more likely to trigger allergies related to pet dander and may require extra efforts in terms of vacuuming and using lint rollers to keep up with the shed hairs.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

It is crucial to consider the grooming needs of a breed including bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. The frequency of these tasks will vary depending on the breed. When determining the grooming effort required, it is important to assess the time, patience and budget you can allocate for this type of care. It's worth noting that all breeds, regardless of their coat type, require regular nail trimming to ensure their overall well-being.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool is an important consideration. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that have a tendency to leave trails of slobber on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes might not be the most suitable choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Hairless, Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness a breed exhibits towards strangers is an important factor to consider. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, there are breeds that are generally enthusiastic and eager to meet and interact with new people whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppy stage is an important consideration. Certain breeds will maintain their desire to play games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They will actively engage in such activities and enjoy them. However, there are breeds that tend to be more content with relaxing on the couch and spending quality time with their owners, rather than actively seeking out playtime.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The tendency of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is an important characteristic to consider. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds have a natural inclination to be vigilant and notify their owners of unfamiliar activity. Moreover, these breeds are also likely to become more accepting of strangers who enter their house and are welcomed by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to change is a crucial aspect to consider. This encompasses various factors such as adjustments to different living conditions, tolerance of noise levels, adaptability to different weather conditions, coping with changes in the daily schedule and overall resilience to variations in day-to-day life. It's important to assess a breed's ability to handle these changes when considering which breed may be the best fit for your lifestyle.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things are important considerations when choosing a breed. Certain breeds have a natural inclination to please their owners and are eager to learn and follow commands making the training process easier. On the other hand, there are breeds that may have a more independent nature and prefer to do things on their own terms, which can make training more challenging. Understanding a breed's level of trainability and their inclination to learn is essential in determining the right fit for your training style and expectations.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed are important factors to consider. High-energy breeds are enthusiastic and always ready for their next adventure. They thrive on physical activities such as running, jumping and playing, requiring ample exercise throughout the day to keep them satisfied. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are more content with a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. They are perfectly content to spend their time lazing around and enjoying peaceful snoozes on the couch. Understanding a breed's energy level and exercise needs is crucial for ensuring their overall well-being and happiness.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation requirements of a breed should be taken into consideration for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs, with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities, typically have a higher need for mental stimulation. Without sufficient mental exercise, they may become bored, restless or even engage in destructive behaviors as they seek to occupy their minds. Providing appropriate mental challenges, such as puzzle toys, training activities, or interactive games can help keep these breeds mentally stimulated and content.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Brown	061
Gray	100
Tan	195
White	199
Bronze	060
Copper	535
Red	140
Rose	534
Gold	091
Cream	076
Lilac	504
Tan Brindle	446
Red Brindle	148
Gray Brindle	107
Tri-Colored	380
Blue	037

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
Gold Markings	097
Gray Markings	028
Tan Markings	012
White Markings	014
Brown Markings	022
Cream Markings	044
Red Markings	023
Spotted	021
Tri-Colored	086
Sable	026

About The Breed

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is an agile, smart, and swift breed that originated in Peru. They come in hairless or coated varieties and are available in small, medium and large sizes. Known for their elegance and sighthound characteristics, these dogs excel in activities such as lure coursing, rally and agility. The hairless variety can have skin of any color, while the coated variety accepts a range of colors including black, brown, gray, pink, tan and white.

PIOs are affectionate companion dogs with the sleek contours typical of sighthounds like Greyhounds and Whippets. Their most obvious feature is their hairlessness though coated varieties also exist. In some cases, a litter can have both hairless and coated puppies. The breed's overall appearance is slim, elegant and conveys a sense of speed, strength, and harmony.

These dogs are noble and affectionate with their close family members, while also being lively and alert. They may be cautious around strangers making them good watchdogs. The PIO is loyal and protective of their family but it is essential to supervise them around young children and take precautions with small pets that they may view as prey.

What to Expect When Caring for A NOVA SCOTIA DUCK TOLLING RETRIEVER

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Peruvian Inca Orchid: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The majority of Peruvian Inca Orchids are indeed healthy dogs. Responsible breeders play a vital role in ensuring the health of the breed by conducting genetic testing on their breeding stock to minimize the risk of inherited diseases. By working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners of Peruvian Inca Orchids can obtain the necessary education on the specific health concerns within the breed. This helps ensure that puppies are bred from healthy parents and are more likely to be healthy themselves. Genetic testing and responsible breeding practices contribute to the overall health and well-being of the breed. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Patella Evaluation BAER Testing Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Peruvian Inca Orchids are not outdoor dogs and are sensitive to sun exposure, so sunscreen should be applied on sunny days to protect their skin. Regular grooming is important to maintain their cleanliness and appearance and occasional baths are sufficient for this purpose. It is also necessary to trim their nails as needed to prevent overgrowth, splitting and cracking. Regular checks of their ears are important to avoid wax and debris buildup, which can lead to infections. Brushing their teeth as needed helps maintain good dental hygiene. Taking these grooming and care practices into consideration will help keep your Peruvian Inca Orchid healthy, comfortable and looking their best.

Exercise

	The Peruvian Inca Orchid indeed requires a good amount of activity to maintain their health and happiness. There are various options to provide them with exercise. Playtime in a fenced backyard allows them to run and explore freely. Going on multiple walks throughout the day is beneficial for their physical and mental stimulation. Indoor activities, such as playing hide-and-seek or engaging in interactive games like chasing a ball rolled along the floor can also provide exercise and mental stimulation. Even if you live in an apartment short walks in hallways can serve as exercise especially when weather conditions are unfavorable. Engaging your Peruvian Inca Orchid in dog sports like agility, obedience and rally training can also be an excellent way to provide exercise while strengthening the bond between you and your dog. It's essential to tailor the exercise routine to your specific living situation and the individual needs of your dog.

Training

	It is crucial to provide ample socialization for Peruvian Inca Orchids, a breed that is best suited for indoor living rather than outdoor environments. This particular breed showcases high intelligence but can present training challenges. Prospective owners must allocate a significant amount of time to effectively train and socialize their new PIO puppy. Due to their primitive nature, PIOs display a wide range of temperaments ranging from the typical docility of a sighthound to a more untamed disposition. While it is not advisable to bring a PIO into a family with young children, they can thrive when interacting with older more considerate kids. It is important to discourage rough play during the puppy stage as it may encourage aggressive behavior. PIOs can coexist with smaller dogs or cats with proper supervision.

Nutrition

	The Peruvian Hairless breed thrives when nourished with high-quality dog food be it commercially produced or homemade with the guidance and approval of your veterinarian. It is crucial to provide a diet suitable for your dog's particular life stage, whether they are a growing puppy, an adult or a wise senior. It's worth noting that certain dogs have a predisposition to gaining excess weight, so it is important to monitor both their calorie intake and weight level. While treats can play a valuable role in training, it's essential to avoid overindulging as it may lead to obesity. Familiarize yourself with the human foods that are safe for dogs and those that are not. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, it is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian. Lastly, ensure that a clean and fresh supply of water is constantly available to your beloved companion.

Historiography

The captivating story of the Peruvian Inca Orchid unfolds through the intricate details captured in pottery and textiles. Back in 750 AD, these unique canines made their first appearance in Moche pottery, leaving behind an enduring imprint. The breed's presence was also depicted in the artwork of the Chimu, Chancay, and Incan civilizations. The Chancay people, known for their fondness for the dogs, portrayed them as loyal companions, going so far as adorning their depictions with charming sweaters. Remarkably, the urine and feces of these dogs were believed to possess medicinal properties.

The Chimu regarded the Peruvian Inca Orchid as bearers of good fortune and harnessed their warmth for treating conditions like arthritis and respiratory ailments. Originally, these hairless dogs were cherished as small companion animals. However, when the Conquistadors conquered Peru, the indigenous dogs were crossed with those brought by the foreigners, leading to the development of three distinct sizes.

In the mountainous regions of Peru, the Andean people valiantly protected these remarkable dogs. Sadly, the breed faced significant challenges in the coastal cities where they were stigmatized as diseased and outcasts, often falling victim to extermination efforts. In 1966, an American named Jack Walklin visited Peru and brought back eight dogs to the United States. He is widely credited with officially naming the breed the Peruvian Inca Orchid, solidifying its identity in the US and Europe.

Germany took a significant step in 1981 by registering the breed with the International Canine Federation (FCI). In 1985, the Kennel Club of Peru recognized the breed and requested that the FCI change its name to "Perro sin Pelo de Peru" or Peruvian Hairless Dog. A major milestone for the breed occurred in 2001 when Peru declared them a National Patrimony, providing legal protection for these remarkable dogs within the country's borders.