Overview
The Ecuadorian Hairless Dog is one of the rarest dogs in the world and shares its origin with the hairless dogs of Peru and Mexico, village dogs that were valued for warmth and companionship long before European contact. It has little or no coat, a fine, sighthound-like frame and often a reduced set of teeth, which is common in the hairless breeds.
Almost none live in Britain, so a walker should approach it as a primitive hairless type: quick, alert, bonded to its household and slower to warm to outsiders. The skin is the main daily consideration.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two walks keeps the dog fit. Light build and quick feet mean it enjoys a sprint in a secure area, but it does not need long marches.
Weather sets the schedule. Cold, wind and rain all land straight on the skin, and strong summer sun burns it. Short, frequent walks in the mildest part of the day work best.
On the walk
- Skin: Check for scratches, sunburn and dryness after each walk. Brambles, long grass and rough bark do damage a coated dog would not notice.
- Clothing: Expect to walk the dog in a coat for most of the British year. Make sure it fits and does not rub.
- Recall: Decent with a dog that trusts you and shaky with one that does not. Keep it in enclosed spaces until you know it.
- Other dogs: Generally polite but it feels every tooth. Steer clear of rough players and big, bouncy dogs.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a dog-safe sun cream if the owner uses one, and apply before midday walks in summer.
- Use soft routes and avoid thick undergrowth where the skin can be scratched.
- Towel the dog dry straight after rain; there is no coat to hold any warmth.
What to ask the owner
- What skin care does the dog have, and are there products or sun creams you should use?
- What temperatures are too cold or too hot for the dog to go out, and what coat does it wear?
- Does the dog have missing teeth, and does that affect what it can carry or chew on a walk?