Quick Facts

• Weight: 26 – 50 pounds
• Height: 20 – 26 inches

The Look of a Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca Orchid has a light, strong, medium-sized frame covered in either a short, coarse coat or smooth, hairless skin. Its rounded head has a tapered muzzle and almond-shaped eyes that have an attentive expression. The hairless variety has large, pricked ears, while the coated variety has ears that fall forward. Its tail is usually long and tapered. Overall, the Peruvian Inca Orchid has a lithe and graceful look.

Traits

• Relaxed
• Clever
• Gentle
• Night owl
• Sensitive skin

Ideal Human Companion

• City dwellers
• Families with older children
• Experienced dog handlers

What They Are Like to Live With

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a tranquil, friendly dog about the house. It has a dignified demeanor—well mannered and calm—and it forms affectionate bonds with family members. The Peruvian Inca Orchid is agile and fast enough for outdoor games, making it an engaging playmate both indoors and out. But, it also likes quiet time on the couch.

Protective of its environment, it may be suspicious of new people or unfamiliar dogs. The Peruvian Inca Orchid makes a splendid—not to mention unique-looking—watchdog. Overall, this dog is pleasant and easy to get along with.

Things You Should Know

This dog can live as long as 11 years. Common health concerns include eye problems, dental problems and skin issues like sunburn. Make sure to provide your Peruvian Inca Orchid with a sweater in the winter and dependable protection against the summer sun. A veterinarian can recommend the proper sunscreen to use with this dog.

Apartment living suits the Peruvian Inca Orchid just fine. But it needs daily exercise, human interaction and, ideally, a fenced yard to run around in. Whether you share a house or apartment with the Peruvian Inca Orchid, remember never to leave it outdoors for too long.

History

The Peruvian Inca Orchid first appeared in Peruvian villages during the 1st century A.D. Although both hairless and coated Peruvian Inca Orchids may appear in the same litter, the Incas valued the hairless, calling them “dogs without clothes.” Europeans were introduced to the Peruvian Inca Orchid after Spanish explorers discovered them in the 16th century. The Spaniards called them “Flower Dogs,” a name that later developed into the Peruvian Inca Orchid.