Photo from dogbreedinfo.com

Although the Peruvian Inca Orchid may sound like a rare flower from the Amazon, it is actually a rare dog breed. The dogs are usually hairless, except for an occasional tuft on their heads. However, some coated dogs are born within the same litters as their hairless siblings. The Peruvian Inca Orchids that are bred in the US tend to have a very similar look, due to the fact that almost all of them originate from a dozen or less dogs that were imported here many years ago. The breed has changed over time in Peru, however, so the dogs that are imported today may have different characteristics or varieties. Since most Peruvian Inca Orchids are hairless, their owners have to apply sunscreen to their delicate skin. In Peru they are referred to as “Calato,” the Quechua word for “naked.”

Photo from Wikipedia

Have you ever seen a hairless dog? They have been domesticated in Peru since the time of pre-Incan cultures. Ancient Peruvians left behind statues and carvings of these dogs, and they were also used during the reign of the Incas. Sometimes a tuft of hair grows on their heads, almost resembling a mohawk hairstyle. Other dogs are completely hairless. They are known for being clean pets that are not prone to fleas. Scientists say that the hairlessness may be the result of a recessive gene, since the average birth rate is one coated puppy for every two puppies that are born hairless.