History
Peruvian Inca Orchid is a primitive breed, and its originating history is yet not clear. Hairless dogs like Peruvian Inca have been portrayed in Incan Vicus, Pre- Incan, Mochica, Chimu artifacts and Chancay that be earlier than 750 AD or more before. However, it is assumed by some experts that PIO developed from Mexican hairless dog named ‘Xoloitzcuintli’ which was introduced by Ecuador sea traders to Peru.
It was known as ‘Quechua’ name given by the local Inca people which means a naked dog. Later these dogs were found by the Spanish people who kept them as pets in Inca society. These were also used for hunting and working purpose. Also, Incan royals used to heat up beds as they believed that the hairless body would radiate more than the standard body.
Jack Walklin, an American fancier, visited the country in 1966 and found this breed. Walklin merged different names, and lastly, it was named as Peruvian Inca Orchid. Eight specimens were taken to the USA to start breeding. Jenny Tall another breeder introduced some of this breed to Europe.
PIO got recognition by AKC with a designation of a sighthound and under “Miscellaneous Class” in 2011. It has also got more recognition from famous kennel clubs.
Temperament & Personality
Peruvian Inca Orchids develop a strong bond with their family members, it is the only breed that is defensive of women and children in the family. They are fast and agile, active and lively, they also appreciate hunting, mainly small rodents. It doesn't prefer to stay alone for a longer duration as they tend to suffer from boredom quickly. They go well with other pets, but stay very shy to strangers. They are not perfect for the first time owners, but who is expertise in communicating with dogs. POI has a hunting instinct, and they can start chasing a moving object or small animals.
Exercise
If these active dogs stay under-exercised, they can become nervous and anxious. They love to spend time outdoors, and exercises, like walking jogging or visiting Dogs Park, will be their favorite activity. Offering them toys will be ideal to keep them busy. Owners can also take them to the dog’s park, where they can play and move freely.
Grooming
PIO does not have hairs which makes grooming very easy. But some dogs might possess a smooth layer of hair. In such cases, people can opt for a very soft brush to comb their body lightly. To bathe them, one can use a mild shampoo made for dog and a damp cloth wet in warm water. Also a conditioning moisturizer, it will keep skin hydrated if it is in extremely cold regions. On the hand, if exposing in the sun, applying sunscreen is essential. Mainly if one is staying in a warmer climate. Bath them every week, or every fortnight and even after a month depending upon the requirements.
Trim their nails when they overgrow. Otherwise, they can crack and end up bleeding and pain. Clean their ears with a vet prescribed ear solution to keep their ears clean and infection free. They also require proper dental care, which will include brushing their teeth with a vet prescribed toothbrush.
Health Problems
Being hairless they need extra protection and care. Do not expose them directly in sunlight. It can result in some skin problems like skin lesions, acne, epilepsy, irritable bowel diseases, etc.
Random Veterinarian visits and proper skin care can minimize the disease.
Training
POI is intelligent but requires a firm and tactful trainer. Socializing them from an early age is essential to prevent them from becoming shy and weak of strangers. Taking them to busy places like Dogs Park and busy streets on a leash will allow them to face different situations, sounds, and people. It will not only keep the pet mentally active but also allow them to accept strangers peacefully.
To reduce their prey drive leash training is essential, familiarize with a leash from early days when they are pups. Commands training will polish their skills and enhance the relationship between owner and the dog. Obedience training from an early age will resolve the pack of the leader issue.
Adopting positive training methods that include praises, pats and treats will allow them to learn quickly. Also, keep the sessions short and varied to prevent boredom.
Feeding
Poi does not have any particular food requirements. Offer food depending on the size of the dog and its activity level.
However, high-quality dog food depending upon the size and activity level will provide all the required nutrients. It is advisable to visit a vet or a dietician for a proper diet chart. Also, dividing their meals into two halves will allow them to digest quickly.
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