Argentine Pila

The Argentine Pila is a hairless dog of north-western Argentina, related to the Peruvian and Mexican hairless breeds.

History

It is found in Salta, Jujuy and the surrounding provinces, and its ancestry runs back to the hairless dogs of pre-Columbian South America, probably carried south along Andean trade routes. Local families kept it as a companion and, by tradition, as a living hot-water bottle for aching joints — a use recorded for the hairless breeds across the Americas. It comes in three sizes.

Temperament

The breed is known for being affectionate, playful and closely attached to its household, alert with strangers and quieter than most primitive dogs.

Care and training

Exercise needs are moderate. The bare skin needs sun protection, warmth and washing rather than brushing.

Health

Known concerns are the dental irregularities linked to the hairless gene and skin conditions. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.