The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a hairless sighthound that has been in existence for thousands of years.

If you are seeking an affectionate and loyal companion, the Peruvian Inca Orchid might be just the breed for you. The Peruvian Inca Orchid is an ancient breed, and its longstanding popularity should come as no surprise to anyone who has had experience with this breed. The Peruvian Inca Orchid is known for its gentle and fun loving personality. At this time many registries do not recognize them, but any sighthound enthusiast should definitely take a look at this breed. Those already familiar with the Inca Orchid feel they have one of the best-kept secrets in the canine world. As pets Peruvian Inca Orchids are generally quiet, though affectionate and loyal to their owners. They should be socialized well as puppies and may remain reserved and aloof around people they do not know. The Peruvian Inca Orchid is reported to get along quite well with other animals.

This unusual breed is seen in two varieties, hairless and coated (also referred to as "powderpuff"). Aside from the presence or lack of hair, the ear setting will vary between the two varieties. The coated variety will generally have a rose ear, while the ears of the hairless variety are typically pricked. Prick ears on the coated variety or rose ears on the hairless are considered faults for show dogs. All colors are accepted though colored spots on a pink or white background (be it skin or hair) is the preferred appearance. The hairless variety is not completely hairless, it usually has short fuzzy hair on the feet, tail, ears, and on top of the head. The average Inca Orchid will measure between 10 and 26 inches in height at maturity, and weigh anywhere from 9 to 55 pounds. There are three varieties of Inca Orchid, small (9-18 pounds), medium (18-26 pounds) and large (26-55 pounds). The Peruvian Inca Orchid's body is thin and lightly boned, but it has muscular legs and large feet. This enables the Inca Orchid to have a smooth flowing gait, that has graceful movements that is fully characterized when in full run by the double suspension gallop typical of all sighthounds.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is an ancient breed, and for this reason much of its history is clouded by the winds of time. It is believed that this breed has been in existence since at least 750 AD when they were recorded among the Moche in Peru. There are some theories that support the notion that these dogs originated in Asia and crossed into South America when the first people migrated to the Americas. No matter what their origins, historically the hairless variety was prized over the coated variety, and they performed different functions. While the hairless Inca Orchids spend their nights keeping nobility warm, their coated siblings were used for hunting. These dogs were so highly valued that ancient graves were discovered with the bodies of Inca Orchids resting eternally beside their former masters. The Peruvian Inca Orchid has been known by many names including Peruvian Hairless, Inca Orchid, South American Hairless Sighthound, Moon Flower Dog, and Perro Flora, which means Flower Dog in Spanish.

Overall the Peruvian Inca Orchid is a healthy breed. In the hairless varieties, there can be a lack of full dentition, which is something that breed groups are working hard to overcome.

The hairless variety should be guarded from the sun as their skin may be more prone to sunburn than the coated variety.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.