Archaeologists discover 1,200-year-old mummified hairless dog in Peru
Archaeologists in Peru have discovered 1,200-year-old mummified remains of hairless dogs at a Wari Empire site. The find provides new insights into the cultural significance and treatment of this indigenous breed before the rise of the Inca.
Why it matters
This discovery helps historians better understand the daily life and cultural practices of the Wari Empire, a significant pre-Inca civilization.
Archaeologists working at an ancient burial complex in Peru have uncovered remarkable evidence of hairless dogs that lived more than 1,200 years ago, long before the rise of the Inca Empire. The discoveries include naturally mummified remains, unusual skeletal features, and clues about what the animals ate and how they were treated by the people around them.
Peruvian hairless dogs are a distinctive Indigenous breed known for their slender bodies, pointed ears, and lack of fur. They frequently appear in pottery created by ancient societies along the Andean coast. Today, a variation of the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club as the Peruvian Inca Orchid. The dogs are also an important national symbol, having been officially designated part of Peru's cultural heritage in 2000.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in