The Peruvian hairless dog is a breed native to Peru and was known to be kept and prized by the Incas and pre-Incan coastal cultures. The indigenous believed they were special, somewhat spiritual beings, with powers to heal those in contact with them. This belief still exists to this day, along with many other strange Peruvian superstitions, and people are eager to own these rare, expensive dogs. These myths helped keep the species alive in small towns during and after the Spanish conquest.

These dogs are very intelligent and like to be with people. Their lack of hair makes them easy to keep clean and means they will be free of parasites. Their skin though can often crack, burn and go dry if they spend too much time in the sun. They can go through as much moisturiser as a person if cared for well.

Tags: animals, perro peruano, superstitions