Rosie is a Peruvian Inca Orchid--telling people that often gets me some very strange looks!  It is an actual breed, however strange the name may sound!  They are a rare breed sighthound and are considered a hairless breed, although Rosie is the coated variety.  As the name indicates, they originated in Peru and were used as hunting dogs.  They have a temperament similar to most sighthounds--they are loyal to their owner and very aloof toward strangers.   They do not do well with rough handling, a soft voice and touch work best.   They will take chase if running loose. 

Rosie is 11 years old and has been my friend since she was 7 weeks old.  I could not have asked for a better dog.  She is obedient and calm and can be taken anywhere.  She gets along with every animal she has encountered.  She is even tempered and loves to lounge.  They are a healthy breed with almost no genetic disease.  The hairless must be protected from the sun, as they will burn.  Rosie is a chow hound and would gladly over eat if I allowed it.   She will steal food and store it for later (hence, her nickname), and I have found all sorts of interesting things under my pillow, the worse being a pile of melted Reese's Peanut Butter Cups that she had stolen from a candy dish.  She is one clever girl!

For more information on Peruvian Inca Orchids:

Thanks to this site for the great dog graphics!: