Bolivian Hairless Dog


The Bolivian Hairless Dog is an extremely rare breed of dog bred in Bolivia. These dogs are not recognized by any major Kennel Club such as the American Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club, United Kennel Club nor the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. These dogs are also called Hairless Khalas. These dogs are rare, but are found in Mexico through Central and South America, rather than throughout North America.

Description

Appearance

The Bolivian Hairless Dog is similar in appearance to the Xoloitzcuintli and, like the Xolo, the Bolivian Hairless Dog ranges greatly in size. In fact, there are two varieties, the Medio and the Grande. The difference between the two is that the Medio has shorter legs and is not as muscular in build, while the Grande has longer legs and is built more like a Greyhound-type dog.

Size

These dogs may exhibit many behavioral traits of hairless or primitive dogs. These dogs are loving and docile with family and friends. However, they can be aloof, standoffish and even unfriendly with strangers or suspicious people. These traits can be redirected with good socialization from a young age, as with any breed of dog, and they will be tolerant of strangers being around and be stable and gentle with other household animals. The owner of the dog must display gentle but firm leadership. With proper leadership, he will be able to adapt to the presence of other canines. These dogs have a tendency to walk or run away from a serious confrontation, which is good, since these dogs are hairless and adult teeth are usually few and far between.
This is a primitive breed. It needs very little care, but is not the best choice for a novice dog owner, generally because of the loss of protection provided by hair and good dentition. Flight is preferable to fight. The Bolivian Hairless Dog tends to identify very closely with others of its kind. Most hairless dogs do best with a buddy to accompany them because, like many dogs, Bolivian Hairless Dogs have little tolerance for being alone, so if you have intensive plans leaving the house for, let's say 9 – 15 hours or something like that, make sure your dog has a companion to insure separation anxiety does not occur. Do not let this dog develop small dog syndrome, where a dog believes it is the pack leader, which can cause behavioral issues.

Common health issues

The Bolivian Hairless Dog is generally healthy. In their countries of origin, veterinary care is seldom available or affordable to the peasants of India that the dogs live with. Like all hairless dogs, skin problems are an issue and, as with most hairless dogs, adult dentition is very bad. The root system is shallow and even puppy teeth are primitive. The life expectancy is not really known in the United States, where they are protected.