Peruvian Inca Orchid
Quick Summary
Elegant, loyal companion requiring specific care for temperature sensitivity and skin protection. Ideal for dedicated owners who can provide consistent attention and controlled environment.
Contents
Weight Range
8-55 lbs
♂ Male: 26-55 lbs
♀ Female: 26-55 lbs
Height Range
25-65 inches
♂ Male: 20-26"
♀ Female: 20-26"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Miscellaneous Class
Originally bred for Ancient breed from Peru's coastal regions, serving as companion and hunter for the Inca civilization
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 20"-26" |
| Female Height | 20"-26" |
| Male Weight | 26-55 lbs |
| Female Weight | 26-55 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1500-3000), supplies, and medical checks. Monthly expenses cover premium food, skin care products, and preventive healthcare. Regular veterinary care and potential skin treatments add to costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Noble and affectionate temperament with family members, displaying moderate to high energy levels. Social behavior tends toward reserved with strangers while maintaining strong loyalty to family. Requires early socialization for balanced temperament.
Social Needs
Requires significant human companionship and forms strong bonds with family. Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized. Can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Peruvian Inca Orchid dogs showcase elegant, hairless bodies with smooth, warm skin in various colors. Their graceful build combines athletic musculature with refined bone structure, creating a noble appearance. Alert ears and expressive eyes complement their dignified bearing, while their temperament blends affectionate loyalty with natural nobility.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly affectionate with family
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- ✗ Sensitive to temperature extremes
- ✗ Requires skin protection
- ✗ Can be reserved with strangers
- ✗ Moderate exercise needs
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Loyal, Noble |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Regularly |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate to high intensity level activities should be balanced throughout the day, with particular focus on morning and evening exercise.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 meals daily totaling 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food, adjusted for size and activity level. Special consideration needed for metabolism and energy requirements. Sensitive digestion may require specific formulations.
Feed 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Premium dog food recommended for optimal nutrition. Consider grain-free options if sensitivity present. Adjust portions based on size and activity level.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to apartment living with adequate exercise. Ideal setting includes secure, fenced yard. Requires temperature-controlled environment due to hairless nature and sensitivity to extremes.
Minimum space requirements include room for indoor exercise and comfortable resting areas. Ideal setting provides temperature control and sun protection. Adapts well to various living situations with proper accommodation.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in ancient Peru, these dogs were highly valued by the Inca civilization. Archaeological evidence shows their presence in Peruvian coastal regions dating back over 2000 years, where they served as both companions and hunters.
Historical Purpose
Ancient breed from Peru's coastal regions, serving as companion and hunter for the Inca civilization. Valued for their hunting abilities and believed to possess healing properties.
Fun Fact
Ancient Incas believed these dogs possessed healing powers and would sleep with them to alleviate ailments.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires sun protection and temperature management. Regular exercise essential but avoid extreme weather. Monthly health checks focusing on skin and dental care needed.