" The Argentinian Pila dog is a small breed originating from Argentina. Its most distinctive characteristic is the total absence of fur; in fact, the word pila means naked in Quechua. Dogs of this breed are friendly, affectionate, and playful, making them great pets. However, they are not well known outside of their native Argentina."
Do you want to know more about the Argentinian pila dog? If so, join us in this PlanèteAnimal file in which we tell you all about the main characteristics of this canine breed.
Origin
- America
- Argentina
Physical Characteristics
- End
- Proportional
Size
- Little
Height
- 35-45
Adult Weight
- 3-10
Life expectancy
- 15-20
Recommended physical activity
- High
Character
- Smart
- Active
- Affectionate
Ideal for
- Children
- Apartment
Recommended climate
- Temperate
Hair type
- Hairless
Origin of Argentine Pila
The Argentinian Pila is a hairless dog originating from Argentina and it is recognized as an indigenous breed of this country. There are various theories as to the origin of these dogs, although everything seems to indicate that they are descended from the Peruvian hairless dog. It is said that these dogs were used by the Incas as gifts for neighboring populations. Thus, these hairless dogs could have arrived in the northwest of Argentina, more precisely in the province of S alta, from Peru.
" Archaeological evidence suggests that the breed began to emerge after the Spanish conquest in the 15th century. However, it was not until the beginning of the 20th century that the breed began to gain popularity in Argentina.Originally, the pila dog was used as a therapy dog to accompany bedridden patients. As he was hairless, his temperature was easily transmitted and allowed him to warm the people he accompanied."
Characteristics of Argentinian Pila
The Argentinian Pila is a breed recognized by the Argentinian Kennel Club, however, to date, it has not been registered as a breed by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The Argentine Kennel Club recognizes two varieties of pila dogs:
- Small dogs: those whose height at the withers is less than 35 cm.
- Medium-sized dogs: those whose height at the withers is between 35 and 45 cm.
Their most obvious characteristic is the absence of hair, which makes them particularly sensitive to the cold and this is also the reason why they like to lie in the sun to warm up.As they are hairless, it is important to protect them from the sun by putting sunscreen on them. One of the characteristics of this breed is that it tans in the summer to protect itself from the sun and that it regains a pinker skin color in the winter.
Here are some of the most important characteristics of their breed standard:
- These are small dogs: they weigh between 6.5 and 8 kg. Although they are slim, they have a strong and well-proportioned body.
- Their head is longer than it is wide: it has a moderate stop. Their nose is small and can be any color.
- Eyes can be any color except blue. In general, dark-skinned dogs have almost black eyes, while lighter-skinned dogs have more yellowish eyes. The eye is bright and has a cheerful, lively expression.
- The ears are medium in size and very mobile: when alert, they are held erect, but when at rest, they are usually folded back.
- The neck is moderately long: thin and slightly arched, it continues the back with a slight curve.
- The tail is of high insertion: it is long, thin and curved. In motion, it is carried arched backwards, while at rest it is low and arched backwards, never towards the stomach.
- The skin is fine and smooth, warm to the touch and totally hairless. Some specimens have a small amount of hair on the head, ears, underside of the tail, or at the end of the limbs. However, this hair does not form a true coat, but a sparse coat.
The colors of Argentinian Pila
The breed standard described by the Argentine Canine Association states that the skin and coat of dogs with it can be any color or combination of colors.
Argentinian Pila dog character
The Argentinian Pila is a sweet, affectionate and playful dog, which makes him an excellent pet. It is a breed that is loyal to its guardians, pleasant with children and friendly with other pets. However, he is rather wary of strangers.
Although he is a good guard dog, he is very rarely aggressive. He doesn't usually show any major behavioral problems, but he is a very active dog who needs daily exercise.
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Taking care of an Argentinian Pila
Like any breed of dog, the Argentinian Pila needs a certain amount of care to be in good physical and mental he alth. One of the most important points is skin care. Lacking protective fur, their skin can be damaged much more easily than that of other breeds. Here are some of the recommendations to keep in mind:
- Diet: diet is very important to ensure good growth for this dog. In the case of the Argentinian pila dog, it is necessary to be very careful with their diet, as they tend to gain weight.In addition, as he gets older, he loses most of his teeth, so it will absolutely be necessary to adapt his diet.
- Exercise: It is important to keep in mind that the Argentinian pila, although small, has a high energy level, so it should be exercised at least twice a day. The ideal is to combine walks with games or sports that keep him physically and mentally active for a good part of the day.
- Grooming: For the bath, you must use special soaps for hairless dogs. Sunscreen should be applied to their skin and they should not be exposed to the sun for long periods or during the hottest hours of the day. They are particularly chilly dogs, so they should never be kept outside during the winter season. When they go outside, it is advisable to protect them with special dog coats. Pila dogs are more susceptible to insect bites, so it is advisable to periodically examine their skin for bites from mosquitoes or other insects.
Education and training of the Argentinian Pila
The Argentine Pila is an intelligent dog that is easy to train. Like any other breed, and in order to avoid behavioral problems in adulthood, it is essential to offer him a correct education and socialization from an early age.
Argentinian Pila He alth
The Argentinian pila is a long-lived dog with a life expectancy of between 15 and 20 years. It is a breed that is not prone to he alth problems, although over the years it may develop chewing problems due to its weak and incomplete dentition. For genetic reasons, all Argentinian pilas are devoid of premolars and often also of other posterior teeth.
They are also more likely to develop skin problems because they have no coat to protect their skin. It is important to protect them from the sun by applying sunscreen. Do dogs need sunscreen? Find out the answer.
How to adopt an Argentinian Pila?
The Argentinian pila is a rare and little known breed outside of Argentina. Therefore, if you are considering adding a dog of this breed to your family, you may find it difficult to find one. There is a conservation movement for the breed, with protection and breeding programs, although most of these programs are carried out in the American countries where the breed is bred. However, you can try to contact one of the associations responsible for the conservation of this breed so that they can direct your search.
In any case, remember that what is really important when welcoming a new animal into the family is not that it meets any breed standard, but that you can adapt to their needs and lifestyle.
Photos of Argentinian Pila
