The Peruvian Hairless, Inca Hairless, or Perro Sin Pello Del Peru

The Peruvian Inca Orchid, PIO, Moonflower Dog, or Perro Flora, was raised by the Inca civilization of South America. Thought to be magical creatures they were allowed to roam freely about only at night. This was most likely due to the fact that the PIO has very light pigmented skin which causes them to sunburn easily. Inca rulers guarded these dogs fiercely and kept them as bed warmers and pets.

The natives viewed them as gifts from the gods and thought them to have healing capabilities. The Inca Orchid is distinguished by their primarily white or pink skin that is spotted by color. They also have a trademark tuft of hair on the top of their head (known is the "kissing spot").

The Peruvian Hairless, Inca Hairless, or Perro Sin Pello Del Peru, is another breed of hairless dog, not to be confused with the Inca Orchid although the lines have been mixed.

Peruvians are usually a solid dark color, normally brown to grey black. Hair growth is minimal, but some (called the "fuzzy-face" variety) can get hair on the head and tail. Like the xolo they resemble hairless sight hounds.

The Peruvian is recognized in three sizes; toy, miniature, and standard. The genetic registry for this breed has been extremely mixed over the years since any breed of hairless dog in Peru was considered a Peruvian. In recent years the formation of the Inca Hairless Club of America has helped to define this breed and develop a standard to which breeders can strive for.