Peruvian Inca Orchid

Peruvian Inca Orchid dog

Ancient Peruvian breed best known for its elegant build and unusual hairless variety.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Small 8 - 17 lbs 10 - 16 inches 12 - 14 years
Medium 17 - 27 lbs 16 - 20 inches 12 - 14 years
Large 27 - 55 lbs 20 - 26 inches 12 - 14 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: Peru



Own a Peruvian Inca Orchid? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a Peruvian Inca Orchid? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Want a dog that generally gets along well with other dogs.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid, also known as the Peruvian Hairless Dog, is one of several native hairless dog populations with a long history in the Americas. Archaeological ceramics from pre-Inca cultures including the Moche and Chimú depict hairless dogs, demonstrating that dogs of this type lived in Peru many centuries before European colonization. The modern breed therefore has genuine pre-Columbian roots, although it is not possible to trace every modern bloodline directly to a particular ancient dog. Hairless dogs lived in different parts of Peruvian society and acquired cultural and ceremonial associations in addition to serving as companions. The breed exists in both hairless and coated varieties, with hairlessness produced by a dominant genetic trait that is also associated with characteristic dental differences. Peruvian Hairless Dogs come in multiple sizes rather than one uniform body size. Their population survived centuries of social change but remained relatively little known outside Peru until the 20th century. Peru formally recognized the breed as part of its national heritage, and preservation efforts have emphasized its connection with the country's archaeological history. The romantic English name Peruvian Inca Orchid became popular internationally, although Perro sin Pelo del Perú, or Peruvian Hairless Dog, more directly describes the breed in its homeland.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is generally considered hypoallergenic, but no dog is completely allergen-free. Individual reactions can vary.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid generally has a moderate energy level.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid generally benefits from a moderate amount of daily exercise.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid generally tends to get along well with other dogs when properly socialized.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid may live in an apartment if its exercise, space, and enrichment needs are met.