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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid (also known as the Perro sin Pelo del Peru, Moonflower
Dog and the Perro Flora) is a medium-sized, elegant sight hound breed. They have
the appearance of speed, strength and stamina. The skull is slightly rounded and
the muzzle has a straight nasal bone. The lips are very tight and they have a scissor
bite. Missing teeth are not penalized. The nose usually compliments the coat color.
The oval-shaped eyes are medium in size and range from black, to shades of brown,
to yellow. The ears are medium, broad at the base, tapers to a point and are carried
erect. The chest is moderately broad and deep and reaches to the elbows. The topline
is straight, with a slight arch over the loin. The tail is set low, thick at the
base and tapers to a point. The skin of this breed is smooth and elastic. In the
hairless variety, there can be small amounts of hair on the head, legs and tail.
In the coated variety, the coat is short to medium and coarse. Longer, softer hair
can be found on the ears and tail. Coat colors are solid or are heavy skin spotted
of all color combinations on a pink or white skin background.
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Temperament
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The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a very soft-tempered dog. This quiet breed is easy to
live with. They are reserved with strangers until they are introduced to them. They
are calm, loving, sensitive and are devoted to their owners. Though they are good
with other animals, they may be a bit too fragile for children. PIOs will play quietly
indoors, but are quick and active outdoors. They are usually not dog aggressive
and will play well with same-sex dogs that are smaller or larger. They make good
watchdogs.
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Height, Weight
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Small Height: 10-16" ; Weight: 9-18 lbs.
Medium Height: 16-20" ; Weight: 18-26 lbs.
Large Height: 20-28" ; Weight: 26-55 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The hairless PIO can suffer from sunburn, cold temperatures and are prone to tooth
loss.
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Living Conditions
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The Peruvian Inca Orchid is hairless, flea-less and odorless, making them the perfect
indoor dog. When outdoors, they should be in a securely fenced area to prevent them
from chasing and running off. Keep them warm during the cool months and make sure
they have plenty of shade to prevent sunburn.
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Exercise
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This breed only needs a moderate amount of exercise. They should be walked daily
and always on a leash.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-14+ years
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Grooming
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The PIO needs lots of skin care. Bathe once a week to keep their skin soft and supple.
This breed can sometimes get acne. Check their ears often to prevent dryness and
cracked skin. Check their teeth often for signs of decay.
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Origin
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The Peruvian Inca Orchid gets its name from the Spanish explorers who found the
breed. It is said that they were bred as bed warmers by the early Indians in Peru
and the powder puff version being used as hunters. The hairless dogs were often
kept in the same room as their Orchids, where the humidity helped to keep the dog's
skin soft and smooth. This is where one name of the breed originated. It was also
believed that because they sunburned so easily, they were only let out at night
and where able to roam free under the moonlight. Thus the name Moonflower Dog. The
Peruvian Inca Orchid is believed to have been crossed with sight hounds brought
by the conquistadors to produce the modern breed. They are also thought to be descended
from the hairless dog of Mexico, the Xoloitzcuintli. Today, this breed is still
used as bed warmers, companions and show ring performers. They are recognized by
the FCI and the UKC, and have been accepted for recording in the AKC Foundation
Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Hound, UKC Sighthound
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