Peruvian hairless dogs: a description of the breed, the rules of its content
Naked cats have long won the love of people around the world, but bald dogs are still a wonder. However, one of the most interesting breeds - the naked Peruvian dog, which is also called the Inca orchid or Peruvian crested, is already quite well known. Those who met her, mark a cute and extravagant appearance. In addition, these dogs are very intelligent, tied to their owners and become excellent friends for a person.
History of origin
Information about the time of appearance of a naked Peruvian dog is ambiguous. Someone believes that this happened in the III century BC, according to other sources, the event dates from the XIV century AD. It was during this period that the first mention of the rock was presented, presented in the form of frescoes and cave paintings, which, as is known, appeared before the Inca became known.
There is no definite information about the appearance of this dog in Peru either. According to some reports, bald dogs were brought by immigrated Chinese. On the other - we are talking about Asian immigrants who crossed on the way to the country of Bering Strait. Someone believes that the breed originates from Africa, justifying it by the fact that due to an unusual type of "Peruvian" they were considered sacred animals along with several other breeds, could take part in rituals and became a symbol of worship.
Another common name for these funny animals is the Peruvian lunar dog. At the very beginning of the XVI century, they began to occur exclusively in rural areas. This is due to the advent of the conquistadors. There they crossed with ordinary dogs with full hair. By the end of the XIX century, the breed was almost on the verge of extinction, so the authorities of Peru became interested in it. Since then, the data are much more accurate, and the history of the breed has an official confirmation.
Peruvian authorities have been restoring the breed for almost a century. Officially, the International Canine Federation recognized it in 1981. The standard was adopted after 13 years. And in 2001, dogs became popular and famous in their homeland. However, even now the breed is considered to be quite rare.
Breeders note the incredible talent of these dogs to feel sore spots. In such cases, they gently lay on top and treat with the warmth of their body, removing unpleasant sensations.
Now representatives of the breed are considered excellent friends and companions, and also have admirers around the world.
Appearance Description
Speaking about the appearance of "Peruvians", first of all it should be noted the absence of wool. Dogs are very harmoniously folded, graceful and at the same time very fast and have sufficient strength. Their build is very gentle and elegant, absolutely not massive.
Males have almost square body format. Female representatives of the breed are more stretched in length. The combination of them can be called medium, the back is straight or slightly convex, the stomach is tucked up. The breed standard involves not only the naked representatives of the Incas orchid, but also those who have a normal hairline.
In size, these dogs are of three types: large, medium and small. The largest of them grow from 51 to 65 centimeters and weigh from 12 to 30 kilograms. The average representatives of the breed have a height of 41 to 50 centimeters and a weight of 8 to 12 kilograms.And, finally, the smallest individuals reach a maximum of 40 centimeters in height, while their body weight ranges from 4 to 8 kilograms.
According to the standards, the head of the animal is somewhat like a wolf. The lengths of the muzzle and the skull are about the same, there is no pronounced occiput. The neck “Peruvian” is thin, fragile and rather long. The muzzle is slightly narrowed, the nose repeats the color of the skin or coat.
As for the breed having wool, they have a full dentition. Naked individuals are distinguished by the absence of teeth, partial or complete. This feature is influenced by the hairless gene.
Dogs have small almond-shaped eyes, they look at the world carefully and slightly wary. Eye color depends on color and can vary from yellow to black. Pointed ears of medium size, set medium, do not hang, and sometimes stand. The tail has a low fit, tapers closer to the tip. Paws resemble hare, straight and not too long.
When a naked Peruvian dog moves around, it feels like it is mincing. This is because its step is quite short. However, on the whole, dogs move rather quickly.
As for the color of the skin, there may be many different variations. There can be specks of a pink or white shade on a monophonic little body, but according to the standard there are not more than a third, it looks very impressive and unusual.
In bald dogs, small areas of fur on the body are permissible. They can be located in the head, paws or tail. On the back can be observed single hairs. Wool cover can be varied both in type (curly or straight) and in color gamut. Among them, short-haired smooth dogs are most appreciated.
Character and habits
The first thing that breeders note in the nature of Peruvian Crested is equanimity. They have a strong sense of self-esteem and are somewhat skeptical of the world around them. Dogs are a little capricious and spoiled, but they are undoubtedly smart and can easily adapt to a new way of life. They can take part in any events, walk with pleasure, go on a journey, or lie on the couch with their beloved master. You can take them to public places.
It is impossible not to note the devotion of the dogs and their exceptional affection for the owner. They try to never let the host out of sight and keep close to him. They are very wary of unfamiliar people and do not tolerate other people's touch. Even if a stranger manages to stroke the “Peruvian”, she will surely make it clear that she does not like it.
These dogs do not differ aggressive behavior, but in some cases they may snarl or even bite. Dislike of touch is the hallmark of the breed.
These bald dogs are considered to be excellent guards and have a very developed hunting instinct, so they immediately try to catch up with cats that have appeared in sight, or other animals of small size. However, it may well live in the same apartment with a variety of pets.
It is better not to start naked dogs in a family with small children. They are not too fond of babies and do not allow them to squeeze themselves. Best of all, these dogs feel in a circle of people who lead a lifestyle of medium activity, and among children most tolerant of adolescents.
These dogs can vary greatly in character. For example, the smaller the dog, the softer and more attached it will be. The larger ones most often behave more calmly and tolerate solitude well. Representatives of the breed with wool are less capricious and more flexible.
How to choose a puppy?
Despite the fact that the breed has long been recognized by the International Federation of Cynologists, it has not yet received wide distribution in Russia. However, this does not mean that it is impossible to acquire such a dog.
On the territory of our country there are several kennels that breed Peruvian hairless dogs on a professional level.
Experts do not recommend buying such dogs by ads. They are considered exclusive, so unscrupulous sellers can give out for “Peruvian” a similar dog without a breed or a mixture.
It is necessary to take into account that outwardly puppies often remind their parents a little. They are quite difficult to distinguish from dogs of other breeds. At the tender age they have short legs, wrinkled skin and small size. However, sometimes it can be noted that their attractive face very much resembles a wolf. Other breeds do not have this particular feature, which means that it is “Peruvian” that is before you.
An interesting fact: in the same litter, parents can have both naked and hairy babies. And the wool can come off during the first molt, leaving only a small forelock and brush on the tail on the dog's body. Puppies can have the most diverse color. Most of them lack some or all teeth, which is also a feature of the breed.
The best age to get a bald dog is from 6 to 8 weeks. These dogs are distinguished by the need for the earliest possible socialization. You also need to start raising them as soon as possible.
Be sure to check the metric and veterinary passport of the dog, which should contain complete information about the vaccination. The metric indicates the full name of the animal, information about its parents, data breeder. A generic stamp or identification chip is a prerequisite for this breed, this should also be reflected in the documents.
Compliance with standards is another requirement that is mandatory when buying a puppy. It should be borne in mind that milk teeth may be more than the root will be. It is necessary to examine the baby and pay attention to his appearance. The skin should be clean and dry, without scratches and boils. A puppy should be inquisitive and actively interested in the outside world.
Discharge from the eyes and nose, plaque on the ears is unacceptable, this indicates a health problem.
Despite the fact that there are not many nurseries in our country, finding a healthy and affectionate pet, if desired, is easy. However, it must be remembered that such a dog can not be cheap, so you can not chase a low price, in most cases it is a hoax of dishonest sellers.
Care rules
Incas orchid breed dogs can only live at home. They feel uncomfortable on the street, because due to the lack of wool in cold weather they will freeze, and in a roast they will burn under the rays of the scorching sun. However, this problem is solved. Before you go for a walk, “Peruvian” must be worn. In the summer, it should be a T-shirt, and in the winter - a warm jacket. You will also need shoes so that the dog does not freeze his feet.
Hairless dogs require warm clothes when the air temperature drops below +5 degrees. Clothing saves them from the general hypothermia of the body. “Peruvians” will need their own wardrobe, including clothing of a comfortable size and appropriate weather in the street. When the cold comes, you need to think about the headdress. The cap will help protect the animal's thin ear from frostbite.
These dogs are quite active, so they need regular walks. They love to run and chat with other dogs. The main thing is to be careful and not to threaten the life and health of your pet.
In the care of the bare "Peruvian" no special difficulties. Water procedures are required as required. Usually the animal is washed approximately 1 time in 2 months. Special shampoos will be needed, since their delicate skin is very sensitive and allergic reactions may occur when using the wrong means.
Once every 2-3 days a bald dog should be wiped with a damp soft cloth to remove possible contamination. Eyes and ears will need to be cleaned weekly.
Also, once a week should be carried out inspection of the oral cavity. Claws are clipped once in 1,5-2 weeks. This procedure can not be neglected, since they grow in representatives of this breed very quickly.
What to feed?
Dog breeds of the Inca orchid are demanding in the diet. Experts recommend feeding them with special dry and wet food of at least super-premium class. It is best to consult with a veterinarian, he will write out food according to the needs of the pet. Another feature of such dogs is the loss of teeth with age. When this happens, you need to revise the diet and completely switch to wet food, or begin to soak dry.
With natural nutrition can be difficult. The fact is that bald dogs are extremely fastidious. In addition, they are characterized by a tendency to corpulence and the presence of allergic reactions.
In any case, if you choose a natural diet, the owner will have to take care of its necessary components. “Peruvians” need boiled meat, and it must be necessarily lean. You will also need cottage cheese and nonfat kefir. Be sure to give the dog porridge, raw vegetables, among which there is carrot and pumpkin. Useful to them and sea fish, from which you first need to remove all the bones.
By the way, any bones are unacceptable in the diet of hairless dogs. They are also prohibited from pork, spicy, salted, smoked and fatty foods. Be sure to supplement their meals with vitamin and mineral supplements.
Puppies are fed 6 times a day. With age, this frequency is reduced to 2 times a day.
Features of education
The Peruvian naked dog is very capricious, so its upbringing and socialization should be started at a tender age. The simplest puppy commands can learn to perform as early as 2 months. This will help avoid many behavioral problems in the future.
You can conduct a course of training at a professional canine, but this is not a prerequisite. The main thing that the dog implicitly listened to the owner. It is necessary to be patient, because the process will require softness and perseverance. The most simple commands clever dogs memorize very easily and they are happy to perform.
You should not hold long classes, as dogs will no longer be interested in them after a short amount of time.
However, regularity and constant repetition of commands is important. Proper execution should be encouraged with delicacy. In no case can not be rude and cruel to your pet, otherwise he will withdraw into himself, be offended and will no longer trust his master.
About what features of the content of the Peruvian naked dog, see the following video.