Khala

Also called Hairless Khala, Bolivian Hairless Dog

Rare breedShort profile

From Bolivia, South America.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

hairless

Known as a hairless type of dog, part of the small group of South American hairless dogs.1

The story where it all began

The Khala is a little-documented hairless dog from Bolivia. It appears in Desmond Morris's dictionary of world dog breeds and in lists of hairless dogs, but it has never been taken up by a kennel club registry, so reliable detail on its size and character is scarce.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It belongs to a small family of South American hairless dogs that also includes the unregistered Argentine Pila and Ecuadorian Hairless Dog.1
2
Only three hairless breeds have worldwide kennel club recognition: the Chinese Crested, the Xoloitzcuintle and the Peruvian Inca Orchid. The Khala is not among them.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Khala' comes from the Quechua word for 'naked,' referring to the hairless variety of the dog.3

Name ideas for your new friend

IntiPazSolLunaChaskaCieloRayoTierraNubeEstrellaVientoLluvia

A day in the life told by a Khala

I woke up in a sunbeam on my favorite rug, feeling the warm floor under my bare skin. My human gave me a scratch behind the ear, and I stretched like a long, elegant shadow. Then we went for a stroll through the market, where everyone greeted me with smiles and pats. I sniffed the air, full of spices and flowers, and trotted proudly beside my person. Back home, I napped in a patch of sunlight, dreaming of chasing butterflies. In the evening, I curled up on the couch, my head on my human's lap, content and happy as the stars came out.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

None: Not a registered breed with any major kennel club; Wikipedia lists the Hairless Khala of Bolivia among unregistered hairless dog types, citing Desmond Morris's Dogs (2001), p. 596.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Khala. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Khala, and at what times?

Feed your Khala at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each day. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a consistent schedule to match their digestion.4 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Khala eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and alcohol. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.5 4

How often should I bathe a Khala?

Bathe your Khala about every eight weeks, or as needed if they get dirty. Since they are hairless, their skin may need gentle care. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Khala need brushing?

Brush your Khala weekly to remove dead skin and keep their coat healthy. Even though they are hairless, brushing helps distribute natural oils. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every seven days.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Khala's nails, and how often?

Trim your Khala's nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding. Furry Diary's plan suggests monthly trimming.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Khala need?

Your Khala needs daily walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily exercise. Adjust the intensity based on your dog's energy level and consult your vet. Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Khala's teeth and ears?

Brush your Khala's teeth daily with a dog-safe toothpaste, and never use human toothpaste. Check their ears weekly and dry them gently, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Khala live?

Lifespan varies for each Khala, so ask your vet for a typical range. Senior years usually start around age eight, and regular vet checkups help them live a long, healthy life. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Khala good with children and other pets?

Temperament varies by individual, so ask a good breeder or your vet about your Khala's specific personality. Early socialization and training help them get along well with children and other animals.

Can a Khala be left alone?

It depends on the dog's personality and training. Some Khala dogs handle alone time well, while others may need company. Ask your vet or a good breeder for advice tailored to your dog.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.