Peruvian Hairless vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Peruvian Hairless vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAustralian Shepherd is originated from United States but Peruvian Hairless is originated from Peru. Australian Shepherd may grow 8 cm / 4 inches higher than Peruvian Hairless. Australian Shepherd may weigh 7 kg / 16 pounds more than Peruvian Hairless. Australian Shepherd may live 3 years more than Peruvian Hairless. Australian Shepherd may have more litter size than Peruvian Hairless. Both Australian Shepherd and Peruvian Hairless requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Miscellaneous dogs
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United States
Peru
Height Male:
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
25 - 50 cm
9 - 20 inches
Height Female:
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
25 - 50 cm
9 - 20 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
4 - 25 kg
8 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
4 - 25 kg
8 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
3 - 5
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Aussie
Peruvian Inca Orchid, Perro Sin Pelo de Perú, Inca Hairless Dog
Colors Available:
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
grey, mottled, Dark brown
Coat:
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Hairless except for some hair on the head
Shedding:
Constant
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

australian shepherdThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

peruvian hairlessThis is an ancient breed, and he even looks like he comes from ancient times. This particular dog, the Peruvian Hairless, was part of the Inca Empire and it is amazing that depictions of Peruvian hairless dogs have been seen around around 750 A.D.

It is believed the dogs were a meal for many in those ancient times, and that together with the Spanish conquest of Peru resulted in the dog almost being wiped out.

Today the dog is held in esteem in Peru and it is looked upon as the national dog of Peru – an accolade this dog received in 2001. The Federation Cynologique Internationale has accepted this breed and also adopted an official breed standard.

Description

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

peruvian hairless puppy - descriptionThere is no doubt that the most important feature of this dog is its hairlessness, but there is nearly always a little bit of hair on top of its head and on the tip of the tail.

The color of the dog’s skin can be dark brown, mottled or a grey shade. They can be a solid color or grey or brown but with pink spots. The eyes of the dog are brown and the ears can be floppy or erect and the tail is long.

He stands at anything between 25 to 50cm, depending on whether he is a small or medium sized Peruvian. Weights can vary too but can be 4kg for the smaller type, going up to 25 kg for the larger dogs. The dogs are always slim.

Temperament:

Peruvian Hairless dogs love their human families, being somewhat wary around strangers. They are lively, intelligent, alert and protective.

Lean and agile, they can be quick too. Just like with any other dogs, he will require training and socialization if you want him to be obedient and well behaved. He gets on well with other pets in the house and will get on well with disciplined children. This is a quiet dog but even so, he makes a good guard dog.

Characteristics

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

peruvian hairless dog - characteristicsFrom ancient times, the Peruvian Hairless has been man’s best friend, and June 12th is the official day of the Peruvian Hairless Dog. These dogs love being surrounded by their human family. They are cheerful, playful, social dogs and they make great playmates for children when the children don’t rough play too much so as to injure him.

He is also a good watchdog and when he isn’t protecting you or playing he can be calm and quiet, and slot easily into life in the countryside or the city. Treat him well and you'll enjoy excellent friendship from this hairless canine friend.

Health Problems

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

peruvian hairless puppies - health problemsLike all breeds there will be some health problems with your Peruvian Hairless, although with good care care this dog can live to be 12 years of age or maybe even a little older. Some things to look out for include -

Irritable Bowel Syndrome:

You may notice your dog not eating his food, having an upset stomach and vomiting. Irritable bowel syndrome in a dog is a persistent upset stomach, resulting in diarrhea and bloating. IBS isn’t reserved for older dogs, and it can affect any breed or sex. You’ll notice your pet being listless and without energy. In severe cases of IBS, you may notice blood in your pet’s feces. Don’t allow your canine friend to suffer – get him to the vet.

Seizures:

Also known as epilepsy, it can be disturbing for you to see your canine friend having a seizure. Uncontrolled bursts of electrical activity in your dog’s brain cause these seizures which are a mix of twitching and shaking. The seizure can last for less than a minute or for several minutes. A number of things can cause these seizures in dogs – head injuries, anemia, kidney disease, liver disease, electrolyte problems, brain cancer among others.

Skin Problems:

Many dogs suffer with one or other skin problems and these can be painful and frustrating. Hairless breeds are more likely to suffer with skin issues and they require special grooming and skin care to prevent dryness, insect bites, sunburn etc.

Caring The Pet

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

peruvian hairless dogs - caringFor some, the lack of hair is appealing to some people who battle with allergies. The skin of the dog will need to be washed to remove dirt. You’ve got to be careful however, what you wash your dog with because these dogs are known to get blackheads and acne because of blocked pores.

Then again, the skin can become quite dry, so you need to strike a balance. Talk to a dog expert or your vet on how to care for such a dog’s skin.

You’ll also need to consider your dog when he goes outside into the sun. Protection against sunlight is recommended and once again you might want to find out about sun blocks. Because of the lack of hair, he may also be sensitive to the cold.

Make sure this unusual pet gets the right diet. You want to be sure that whether you feed him commercially manufactured foods or he gets some home-made food it is full of vitamins and minerals. Steer away from spicy, unusual foods as dogs love simplicity and consistency.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Peruvian Hairless vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Peruvian Hairless vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Peruvian Hairless vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Peruvian Hairless vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Peruvian Hairless vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Peruvian Hairless vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Peruvian Hairless vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Peruvian Hairless vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Peruvian Hairless vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Peruvian Hairless vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Peruvian Hairless vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Peruvian Hairless vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Peruvian Hairless vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Peruvian Hairless vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Peruvian Hairless vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Peruvian Hairless vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Peruvian Hairless vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Peruvian Hairless vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Peruvian Hairless vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Peruvian Hairless vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Peruvian Hairless vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Peruvian Hairless vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Peruvian Hairless vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Peruvian Hairless vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Peruvian Hairless vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Australian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Australian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Australian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Australian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Australian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Australian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Australian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Australian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Australian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Australian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Australian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Australian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Australian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Australian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Australian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Australian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Australian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Australian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Australian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Australian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Australian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Australian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Australian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Australian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison