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Peruvian Inca Orchid

Peruvian Inca Orchid is a medium non-sporting breed from Peru also known as Peruvian Hairless Dog, Viringo, Calato.

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Breed overview

Peruvian Inca Orchid is a medium non-sporting breed from Peru also known as Peruvian Hairless Dog, Viringo, Calato.

An ancient breed depicted in pre-Columbian pottery dating back to 750 AD, they were considered sacred by the Inca civilization and believed to have healing properties. The hairless skin was thought to help with arthritis and other ailments when used as a 'living hot water bottle.'

People looking into Peruvian Inca Orchid usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 8–55 lbs • 10–26 in.

Peruvian Hairless DogViringoCalato

History and origin

Peruvian Inca Orchid is tied to originating from Peru, specifically Ancient Peru, with sources often placing its development around 750 CE.

Peruvian Inca Orchid is described here as placed in the non-sporting group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient breed depicted in pre-Columbian pottery dating back to 750 AD, they were considered sacred by the Inca civilization and believed to have healing properties. The hairless skin was thought to help with arthritis and other ailments when used as a 'living hot water bottle.'

Browse dog breeds from Peru Browse more non-sporting breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
non-sporting
Size
Medium
Origin country
Peru
Region
Ancient Peru
Origin year
750 CE
Weight
8–55 lbs
Height
10–26 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
Moderate exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Peruvian Inca Orchid is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

HairlessSmoothCoated

Peruvian Inca Orchid is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Hairless variety with warm, smooth skin
  • Comes in three distinct size categories
  • Skin color ranges from black to gray to bronze to pink
  • Elegant, slender build with large, erect ears

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient breed depicted in pre-Columbian pottery dating back to 750 AD, they were considered sacred by the Inca civilization and believed to have healing properties. The hairless skin was thought to help with arthritis and other ailments when used as a 'living hot water bottle.'
  • Comes in three sizes (small, medium, large) and two varieties (hairless and coated), though the hairless variety is most common. The hairless gene is dominant but lethal when homozygous, so breeding two hairless dogs together produces some coated puppies.
  • Nearly extinct during the Spanish conquest as they were associated with indigenous religions and systematically destroyed. They survived only in remote areas and were rediscovered in the 1960s. Peru's national dog since 2001, they're still extremely rare with fewer than 1,000 worldwide.

Health and care notes

Peruvian Inca Orchid is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Skin Conditions
  • Dental Problems
  • Eye Conditions
  • Luxating Patella

Coat details: Hairless, Smooth, Coated

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Peruvian Inca Orchid come from?

Peruvian Inca Orchid is closely associated with Peru, especially Ancient Peru in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Peruvian Inca Orchid get?

Typical size details for Peruvian Inca Orchid on this page are 8–55 lbs, 10–26 in, 12–14 years.

What is the Peruvian Inca Orchid known for?

An ancient breed depicted in pre-Columbian pottery dating back to 750 AD, they were considered sacred by the Inca civilization and believed to have healing properties. The hairless skin was thought to help with arthritis and other ailments when used as a 'living hot water bottle.'

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Peruvian Inca Orchid reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.