The Peruvian Inca Orchid (PIO) is one of the several Hairless type dogs. It originates in Peru and has history that goes back to Peruvian Pre-Inca cultures. Also known as Inca Hairless Dog, PIO, Moonflower Dog, Perro Flora, Perro sin pelo del Peru, Al'co Calato and Inca Hairless Dog, it is often perceived to be an Incan dog because it is known to have been kept during the Inca Empire although they were also kept as pets in pre-Inca cultures from the Peruvian coastal zone. This breed has a rich history which dates back to pre-Inca era. The breed was sacrificed in religious ceremonies. These dogs were kept in sheltered rooms to protect from sunburn. Believed to be in existence since 750 A.D, the breed was officially recognized in the country of its origin in 1980s. There are two varieties of this breed based on the coat. One is hairless type and other is coated type. This breed is also distinguished by its different sizes in small, medium and large dogs. The small dogs have heights and weights between 9.75 to 15.75 inches and 8.8 to 17.6 lbs, medium between 16 to 19.75 inches and 17.6 to 26.4 lbs and large dogs stand between 19.75 to 25.75 inches and 26.4 to 55.1 lbs respectively.
The dog is similar to a deer in body structure and its movement. This medium size, sighthound breed gives the appearance of speed, strength and stamina with its lean and muscular body and long legs. The broad head tapers towards the nose. The skull is slightly rounded with an equal length muzzle and straight nose bridge. Nose is black in dark colour dogs and self-coloured in lighter colour dogs. Slightly almond shaped and medium size eyes hold an alert expression. They are brown in dark coloured dogs but light coloured dogs will have clearer eyes. Ears are erect in hairless dogs and semi erect in coated dogs. Neck is long and slightly arched with tight skin. The back is straight with moderately broad and deep chest. Low set and thick at the base tail tapers towards the tip. It is carried curved above the backline when the dog is in motion. This breed comes in either hairless variety where skin is smooth and elastic with small amount of hair present on head, legs and tail. In the coated dog, the single coat is moderately coarse and short to medium in length.
This breed is recognized by AKC, FCI and UKC.
