Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium)
Male: 8-12 kg, Female: 8-12 kg
40-50 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Peru
About the Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium)
The Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium), or Perro Sin Pelo del Perú, is an elegant, slender breed known for its ancient lineage and striking lack of fur. Deeply rooted in pre-Inca cultures such as the Moche and Chimu, these dogs were historically revered as mystical companions. Physically, the Medium variety offers a balanced silhouette, appearing sighthound-like with a deep chest and tucked-up abdomen. Their skin is their most defining feature—smooth, warm to the touch, and remarkably elastic, requiring specific dermatological care to remain healthy in various climates. Temperamentally, they are known for their quiet dignity and deep devotion to their immediate family. While they are affectionate and playful with those they trust, they often maintain a vigilant and cautious stance toward strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. In a home environment, they are clean and typically calm, though they possess a sudden turn of speed and agility when outdoors. For an Australian owner, their unique appearance is matched by a personality that is both sensitive and spirited, requiring a gentle hand and consistent socialisation.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium) is a portrait of primitive elegance. They possess a harmonious, slightly elongated build with a distinctive topline that is straight but flexible. Their movement is short but fast and extremely agile, reflecting their history as versatile companions. The absence of premolars is a recognized breed characteristic in the hairless variety, linked to the FOXI3 gene, and should not be penalized.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this breed’s introduction were not located.
Bred For
Companion and mystical protector; historically used for warmth as a 'living hot water bottle'.
Temperament
Noble, affectionate, alert, and wary of strangers.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Congenital oligodontia (missing teeth), skin sensitivity, solar dermatitis, blackheads (comedones), and sensitivity to cold or extreme heat.
Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity; 30-45 minutes of walking or play in a secure area.
Grooming Needs
Regular skin care including mild bathing, moisturizing with dog-safe lotions, and frequent sunscreen application; nail trimming is essential.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living or small yards; they is best suited to indoor living due to their lack of protective coat.
Good with Kids
Good with older, respectful children who understand how to handle a dog with sensitive skin.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs; can live with cats if socialised early, though may display some prey drive.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent; they respond best to positive reinforcement and may be sensitive to harsh corrections.
Coat & Colours
Hairless (skin texture is smooth and elastic).. Black, slate, elephant grey, bluish-black, brown, and copper; skin can be solid or have pinkish mottling.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that the Peruvian Hairless Dog is more likely to experience dental challenges. Due to the genetic link between hairlessness and tooth development, many individuals have missing premolars or incisors; this doesn't impact their quality of life but may require softer food textures. Skin care is a daily commitment—they are predisposed to sunburn and acne (blackheads) if their skin is not kept clean and protected. They can be more likely to feel the cold acutely, requiring a wardrobe of coats for winter months. While they are devoted companions, they can be prone to separation anxiety if not encouraged to be independent from a young age. Their thin skin means they can get scratches or nicks more easily during rough play, but these typically heal quickly with basic care. Many thrive on a fresh Majestik diet as they can be predisposed to skin sensitivities or 'clogged pores' on high-carb commercial kibbles, with fresh food often resulting in clearer skin and better digestion.
Feeding Guide for Your Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium)
Healthy Weight
8-12 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
200-360 grams
For a medium Peruvian Hairless Dog, a fresh food diet should focus on lean proteins and essential fats to support skin barrier function. Based on a healthy weight of 8-12 kg, provide approximately 200 to 360 grams of fresh food daily, split into two meals. Adjust based on individual activity levels and metabolic rate.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality, minimally processed proteins with a focus on skin health, including Omega-3 fatty acids.
A balanced raw diet for this breed should include lean proteins like Majestik Kangaroo or Turkey, which are excellent for skin health. Incorporate 10% organ meat (liver and kidney) and 10% edible bone, though ground bone is often safer for those with missing teeth. Include sardines or white fish for Omega-3s and pureed green vegetables for antioxidants. Given their lack of premolars, ensure the texture of the food is manageable and free of large, hard bone fragments that could cause dental trauma.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium) Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Peruvian Hairless Dog (Medium)? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.