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Pet Insurance for Peruvian Hairless Dogs

Find out all about Peruvian Hairless Dogs and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on September 18th, 2023       

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Price range

$3,000 – $5,000

Height

25–65cm

Weight

4–25kg

Personality

Intelligent, alert, affectionate

Coat length

Hairless

Exercise needs

Moderate to high

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

11–13 years

Peruvian Hairless Dog

Overview

The Peruvian Hairless Dog, also known as the Peruvian Inca Orchid, is a unique breed with a rich history. Originating in ancient Peru, these dogs were kept during the Incan and pre-Incan civilisations, and today are a symbol of Peru. Slim and elegant, their distinctive hairlessness is a hallmark trait, though they come in a range of sizes and colours.

Apart from their striking appearance, Peruvian Hairless Dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, which makes them excellent companions particularly for families seeking a loyal and devoted pet. While they may be reserved with strangers, they form strong bonds with their owners, often displaying a protective instinct.

These dogs thrive in environments where they receive ample attention and affection and are well-suited for households that can provide a loving and stimulating home.

Common diseases and conditions of Peruvian Hairless Dogs

  • Dermatological issues: due to their hairlessness, Peruvian Hairless Dogs are susceptible to skin conditions such as sunburn, rashes and acne. Regular sunscreen application and skin care are essential.
  • Dental problems: the gene responsible for hairlessness in Peruvian Hairless Dogs also means they have fewer teeth than other breeds, making them prone to tooth decay and gum disease. Regular dental check-ups, brushing and specialised dental care are crucial to maintain their oral health.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): this is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and weight loss. Management typically involves dietary modifications, medication and regular veterinary care.
  • Hypothermia: due to their lack of fur, Peruvian Hairless Dogs are more susceptible to hypothermia, especially in colder climates or during chilly weather. It's crucial for owners to provide appropriate protection, like clothing or blankets, when the temperature drops. 

Breed-specific issues:  

Peruvian Hairless Dogs may exhibit stubbornness at times. Patience and consistent, positive training methods are essential in establishing a strong owner-pet relationship. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and can be sensitive to being left alone for extended periods. They can also be uneasy around new people and animals, so socialisation from a young age is crucial to help them feel more at ease around strangers and other dogs.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Peruvian Hairless Dog?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Peruvian Hairless Dog, including the following: 

  • Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.   
  • Type of insurance you choose:  there are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most. 
  • The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.  
  • Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits which apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.  
  • Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies, up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover. 
  • Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, whilst others do. 
  • Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.  

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Peruvian Hairless Dogs

Are Peruvian Hairless Dogs prone to separation anxiety?

Yes – Peruvian Hairless Dogs often form strong bonds with their owners and can be sensitive to being left alone for extended periods. They thrive on companionship and may experience separation anxiety if not adequately socialised. This is an important consideration for potential owners, as these dogs require environments where they can receive regular attention and interaction. Providing mental stimulation and companionship is crucial for their emotional well-being.

Are Peruvian Hairless Dogs suitable for families with children?

Yes – Peruvian Hairless Dogs can be good family pets, especially if they are socialized from a young age. However, they are best suited for families with older, well-behaved children who understand how to interact gently with dogs. These dogs are known for their gentle and loving nature, but their hairlessness makes them more sensitive to touch, so they may not be the best fit for very young or boisterous children.

Are Peruvian Hairless Dogs easy to train?

Yes – Peruvian Hairless Dogs are highly trainable. However they are intelligent and have an independent streak, which can make training challenging at times. Consistent, positive reinforcement-based methods work best. It's important to be patient, provide clear instructions and use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise.

Do I need to groom my Peruvian Hairless Dog?

Yes – while they have minimal coat care, proper skin care and hygiene are essential for a Peruvian Hairless Dog's well-being. Their skin should be kept clean and moisturised and they should be regularly bathed with mild, dog-friendly shampoo helps maintain skin health. Additionally, they may need sunscreen when exposed to sunlight to prevent sunburn.

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Peruvian Hairless Dog

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