Overview
The Khala is Bolivia's native hairless dog, part of the same ancient family as the Xoloitzcuintle and the Peruvian Hairless. It exists in two sizes, a smaller and a taller type, and both share bare, warm skin, large upright ears and a quiet, watchful nature. It is extremely uncommon in the UK.
Hairless breeds behave in some ways more like cats than dogs. They are fastidious, often reserved with strangers, strongly attached to one or two people and quick to find the warmest spot in a room. Most of what makes a Khala walk different comes from the skin rather than the temperament.
Exercise and walking needs
Forty-five minutes to an hour a day across two outings suits most adults. The dog is agile and enjoys a brisk walk or a run in an enclosed space, but it is not an endurance breed and has no interest in long slogs.
Weather sets the limits more than fitness. In summer, exposed skin burns; in winter, it chills fast. Plan the length and time of day around the forecast rather than the diary.
On the walk
- Skin: No coat means every bramble leaves a mark. Keep to clear paths and check for scratches after the walk.
- Cold: Below about ten degrees most hairless dogs need a jumper or coat, and they will tell you by shivering and refusing to move.
- Sun: On bright days the back and ears burn. The owner will usually supply a dog-safe sun cream; ask before applying anything else.
- Strangers: Reserved. Expect the dog to watch new people from a distance rather than approach. Give it that room.
Tips for professional walkers
- Dress the dog before you leave the house in cold weather, not when it starts shaking at the park gate.
- Choose shaded routes between late morning and mid-afternoon in summer.
- Towel off straight after rain; wet skin loses heat quickly with nothing to hold warmth.
- Avoid stubble fields, gorse and dense undergrowth where a coated dog would be fine.
What to ask the owner
- Which size type is this dog, and what has the owner found works for exercise?
- What sun protection and clothing do they use, and where are they kept?
- Any skin conditions, allergies or missing teeth that affect how the dog eats treats or copes outside?