According to certain experts, the Peruvian Inca Orchid (PIO) was introduced in Peru during the Chinese Immigration, soon after the promulgation of the law abolishing the slavery of the blacks by the President of Peru, Don Ramon Castilla. On the other hand, some researchers suppose that this dog comes from the African continent through the intermediary of nomads who arrived in America accompanied by their hairless dogs. Another explanation is that this dog’s presence would be due to the migration of men and their dogs from Asia to America across the Bering Strait.
However, next to all the suppositions there are certain proofs such as the representations that appear on ceramics of different pre-Inca civilizations (Vicus, Mochica, Chancay, under Tiahuanaco influence, Chima). In many cases, the hairless dog has replaced the puma, the snake, or the falcon; in particular, this is more evident in the Chancay culture. As we can gather from the reproductions, hairless dogs appear during the pre-Inca archeological periods, i.e., between the years 300 BC and the years 1400 AD.
While the Peruvian dog’s cousin, the Xoloitzcuintli, had a more recorded history, being immersed in the culture from which that breed came from, the Peruvian’s history was not as well documented. But the Peruvian breed enjoys a much more diverse size and weight in their Breed Standard than its Xolo cousin. The Peruvian Inca Orchid is the more slender of the two breeds.
Both the Peruvian Inca Orchid and the Xoloitzcuintli have the hairless and coated varieties in their Breed Standards. Although both breeds do have a lot in common, they are NOT identical. Their sizes and proportions are not the same, but they have similar sighthound characteristics.
All three sizes in the Peruvian Inca Orchid should be held to the same ideals of the Standard. Actual sizes should be the only difference between them.
The coated variety can give the illusion of being thicker and heavier than its hairless partner, but it should be held to the same standards.
For me, they are just the greatest dog to live with. They are smart/loyal and have a comical side to them. They are very eager to please, and that is what makes it easy to do working titles with them. They have competed in about every sport that you can compete in. (I even have a Small PIO that has a Weight Pull title.) They are the perfect all-around dog as far as I am concerned. These dogs are now showing in AKC as we are trying to gain full AKC recognition.
They do require some care in the hairless variety; a good exfoliating bath from time to time to keep their skin healthy and free from clogged pores, and a good oil after a bath to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Sunscreen is also recommended to keep the skin from the damaging rays of the sun. In the coated variety, they only really need a bath when they get dirty or smelly, as too many baths can strip their natural oils that protect their coats.
People who have the time to spend with this fabulous dog will get a terrific addition to their family. These dogs do require socialization growing up. People who love the outdoors will really enjoy and get the most out of this wonderful breed. If you want a breed that can do it all, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is your dog.
