PERU: BREED OF HAIRLESS DOG DATES BACK TO PRE INCA CIVILISATION
Like 1 Dislike 0 Published on 21 Jul 2015
Spanish/Nat
A small, hairless dog has evolved into a popular living relic of Peru's ancient past.
The so-called Perrochino is a unique household pet - archaeologists say the breed dates back to the pre-Inca civilisation.
Images of the dog appear on ceramics up to five-thousand-years-old while centuries' old folklore claims it has the power to cure arthritis and asthma.
These hairless, black-skinned dogs may not appeal to the average dog lover but experts agree that the breed has a unique pedigree stretching back to Pre-Inca times.
This combination of an unconventional appearance and ancient ancestry could make it popular abroad, both as a pet and as a show dog.
In the village of Huaral, 70 kilometres north of Peru's capital Lima, one breeder is set on promoting this breed and its ancient heritage.
Doctor Jaime del Castillo is attempting to preserve the dog's genetic purity through a special breeding programme.
SOUNDBITE: (Spanish)
"My interest in getting together as many dogs as I can and work towards improving the breed genetically. Our goal is to improve the dogs as a breed, to maintain their natural characteristics. We want to show off this breed - perhaps even in foreign countries - as it is our only national breed of dog and one which has existed, according to historians, in Peru for thousands of years."
SUPER CAPTION: Doctor Jaime del Castillo, breeder of hairless dogs
Pre-Inca ceramics show that the breed - officially known as Perro sin Pelo de Peru (transl. Peru's hairless dog) - lived side by side with ancient civilisations.
These dogs were highly valued for their medicinal purposes.
It was believed the heat from their skin - unimpeded by hair or fur - could relieve arthritis, rheumatism and other aches and pains.
SOUNDBITE: (Spanish)
"The skin of these dogs was used and their urine and faeces were also said to have healing properties, according to popular ancient culture."
SUPER CAPTION: Manuel Ramosa Bueno, Veterinary Surgeon
Popular breeds come and go but having existed is Peru for thousands of years, the Perrochino breed is here to stay.
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