08/25/2026
A Little Long — But Well Worth the Read ❤️
I haven’t yet shared the results from our last show at MCA, and I think it’s time.
MCA was filled with excitement, new connections, and opportunities for Streaker and me to continue growing together. While we didn’t place at the Group level, Streaker continues to earn Best of Breed. At present, he is the only male Peruvian Hairless being actively shown and promoted here in Canada.
What stood out most to me, however, was the incredible interest from the general public. So many people approached us to ask about Streaker, his breed, and the fascinating history behind the Peruvian Hairless Dog.
And this is exactly why education matters.
The information I’m sharing below resonated deeply with me. Unfortunately, I can’t remember exactly where I originally found it — most likely from another breeder — but the message is one I believe is important to share.
Dog shows are a unique environment, and there should be no exceptions when it comes to respecting the individual characteristics and temperaments of each breed. Judges, exhibitors, and the public all have a responsibility to understand that what may appear unusual or reserved in one breed can be completely normal for another.
Thankfully, I have had the pleasure of showing under judges who took the time to understand that Peruvian Hairless Dogs need time to feel comfortable. Rushing them or forcing an examination does nothing to build trust. Every interaction should be positive, respectful, and designed to build confidence.
Hounds truly are in a class of their own. They are independent, highly intelligent, emotionally sensitive, and incredibly perceptive. With an ancient and primitive breed like the Peruvian Hairless Dog, understanding their nature is essential.
And Streaker has come a LOOOONG way over the past few months.
That progress has come from working together every day, along with driving more than four hours each week for an hour of training with the incredible members of the Wascana Club. I have nothing but gratitude for this entire membership. Their sessions have been positive, fun, interactive, and supportive — giving Streaker the opportunity to find balance, build confidence, and most importantly, feel safe.
I have advocated for Streaker since the day he came into my care in October of last year. As this remarkable young male continues to develop and mature, he continues to teach me, challenge me, and open doors I never imagined possible.
And perhaps most importantly, he has taught me the value of trust.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard:
“Oh, he’s shy.”
“Oh, he’s scared.”
No. He’s not. He’s assessing.
He is taking in his surroundings, processing the situation, and deciding when he is comfortable enough to engage. That isn’t weakness — it is part of who he is.
I am incredibly proud of this boy and of the trust he has placed in me. He knows that he is safe, that I will listen to him, and that I will always advocate for his well-being and safety.
This is why education and understanding are so important.
Please feel free to share this information. Pass it along. Help us educate others about approaching and interacting with our highly intelligent, ancient and primitive breeds with the respect they deserve.
Every positive interaction helps build understanding.
And every bit of understanding helps preserve these remarkable dogs for generations to come. ❤️
Streaker & I — still learning, still growing, and always moving forward together.
THIS INFORMATION HITS HOME! *SEE BELOW*
When strangers touch our dogs without consent, it can be deeply unsettling for them—just as an unexpected touch from a stranger would be for us. This matters even more with Peruvians, a breed known for being thoughtful, discerning, and slow to trust. Peruvians aren’t aloof—they’re evaluating. And in that moment, they need us to advocate for them.
The most important rule of socialization—especially with a Peruvian —is simple:
**A positive experience is more important than exposure. Never overwhelm the dog. Always advocate.**
Socialization isn’t about letting everyone pet your dog. It’s about creating safe, predictable, consent-based interactions where the dog feels in control. Overwhelming a Peruvian with unsolicited handling doesn’t “socialize” them—it teaches them that people are chaotic and intrusive.
A respectful interaction starts with letting the dog choose.
Advocate for your Peruvian by guiding people like this:
“they are Peruvians —they prefers to say hello on their terms. Let’s give them a second to approach you.”
If they step forward with soft body language, great. If they don't it means they have declined—and that’s okay.
“Please let them sniff you first so they can decide if they want attention.”
This gives the dog control and keeps the interaction predictable.
“They are still learning to trust new people. Please crouch and let them come to you.” Changing the human’s body posture can prevent overwhelm.
“They are telling us they are uncomfortable right now—thank you for giving them space.” You normalize respecting the dog’s communication.
Real-world examples of advocating:
At the park: A child rushes toward your Peruvian. You step forward and say,
“Hold on—he decides if he wants to greet. Stand still and he’ll come if he’s comfortable.”
The child learns boundaries, and your dog stays safe.
On the sidewalk: A stranger reaches out mid-walk. You move between them and say,
“He doesn’t like surprise touches. Let’s see if he wants to say hi.”
At a crowded event: Someone leans over your dog. You redirect:
“He prefers people to offer a hand and let him choose the interaction.”
Each time you do this, you are not being rude—you are protecting your dog’s emotional stability.
Why advocacy matters:
Peruvians need thoughtful, confidence-building experiences. When you protect them from unwanted touch, you teach them:
the world is safe
people are predictable
their feelings matter
you will protect them
That trust is the foundation of a stable, reliable Peruvian
Advocating for your dog is not optional—it is part of responsible ownership. And for a breed as powerful and perceptive as the Peruvians, it’s the most important thing you can do.
