Peruvian Inca Orchid

An ancient Peruvian breed depicted in pre-Columbian art, the Peruvian Inca Orchid (PIO) likely predates the Inca Empire. Bred as warm-bodied companions and alert watchdogs, they were prized for their hairlessness and affectionate nature. Modern preservation in Peru led to formal standards and FCI recognition, with three sizes (Small/Medium/Large) and two varieties: Hairless and Coated. Though still rare in North America, the PIO has a devoted global following.

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A refined, athletic dog with an elegant outline; hairless skin is smooth and warm to the touch.

• Weight: Small ~9–17 lb; Medium ~17–26 lb; Large ~26–55 lb
• Height: Small 10–16 in; Medium 16–19.5 in; Large 19.5–25.5 in
• Coat Type: Hairless (may have hair on head/feet/tail) or Coated (short, close)
• Coat/ Skin Colors: Black, slate, gray, bronze, brown, flesh/pink with or without mottling/white markings (coated variety in similar shades)
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Almond eyes (amber to dark), large upright ears, long tapering tail, fine bone and tuck-up; hairless often have fewer teeth (a normal trait linked to the hairless gene)

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Minimal brushing; skin care is the priority (especially for hairless).

• Hairless Skin Routine:
  • Cleansing: Rinse/wipe 2–3×/week; full bath every 3–4 weeks with gentle, fragrance-free shampoo
  • Moisturize: Light, non-comedogenic dog-safe moisturizer as needed (don’t over-oil)
  • Sun Care: Dog-safe sunscreen on ears/nose/back before summer outings; avoid peak UV
  • Cold Weather: Sweaters/coats; limit exposure below freezing
  • Blemishes: Manage blackheads/acne with vet-approved products—no picking
• Coated Variety: Weekly rubber mitt/soft brush; bathe every 4–6 weeks
• All PIOs: Clean ears weekly; trim nails every 2–4 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week
• Shedding: Very low (hairless) / low (coated)

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Moderate, with short bursts of speed—protect skin in sun/cold.

• Daily Exercise: 45–60 minutes (split walks + play; safe off-leash sprints in fenced areas)
• Great Activities: Agility, lure coursing fun runs, nose work, puzzle games, scent walks
• Suitability: Excellent for apartments/condos with daily outlets and climate-appropriate gear

Sensitive, intelligent, and eager to bond—gentle methods shine.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; short, upbeat sessions (they can shut down with harshness)
• Focus Areas: Recall around wildlife, polite greetings, calm “settle,” cooperative care for skin/nails/ear cleaning
• Socialization: Early exposure to people, dogs, surfaces, weather gear (coats/booties) builds confidence
• Enrichment: Trick training, scent games, food puzzles to satisfy their quick mind

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Balanced diet to support skin health and a lean, athletic frame.

• Food Type: High-quality small/medium-breed kibble or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~1.25–2.5 cups total (size/activity dependent), split into two meals
• Diet Advice: Prioritize animal protein; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/coat; dental chews and brushing (hairless may have fewer teeth)

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Rare—plan ahead, verify health testing, and expect support on skin/dentition care.

• Breeders: Seek preservation breeders (Peru/North America/Europe) who provide hip/patella/eye results, dentition notes, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Sighthound and hairless-breed rescues; breed club rehoming programs
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club directory (limited listings), sighthound/lure-coursing clubs (ON/BC/QC) for community; reputable international breed clubs for referrals

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Generally healthy; hairless genetics bring specific considerations.

• Common Issues: Dental anomalies (missing premolars/canines in hairless), sunburn/skin acne, contact allergies, patellar luxation (small), hip dysplasia (large), eye conditions (PRA/cataract in some lines), thyroid/autoimmune skin sensitivities in a minority
• Anesthesia/Drugs: Lean sighthound-type—dose carefully with vet guidance
• Climate Notes: Needs sun protection and winter gear in Canada
• Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
• Recommended Testing: Hips (large), patellas (small/medium), ophthalmologist (CAER); breeders should discuss hairless genetics and dentition

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Are Peruvian Inca Orchids hypoallergenic?
Low-allergen (especially hairless) but not guaranteed hypoallergenic—meet a PIO first.

Do Peruvian Inca Orchids shed?
Hairless: virtually none. Coated: low. Both need routine skin/coat care.

How much exercise do they need?
About 45–60 minutes daily plus mental games; protect from sun/cold.

What skin care do they need?
Gentle cleansing, occasional moisturizing, dog-safe sunscreen, and winter clothing; avoid heavy oils and harsh products.

Are PIOs good apartment dogs?
Yes—quiet, clean, and adaptable with daily exercise and enrichment.

Are they good with kids and other pets?
Affectionate with family; supervise with small children (thin skin) and introduce pets thoughtfully.

Hairless vs. Coated—what’s different?
Hairless need consistent skin/sun/cold management and may have fewer teeth; coated shed lightly and need simple brushing.

Do they bark a lot?
Typically moderate—teach a “quiet” cue and provide outlets for energy and engagement.

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