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Khala
Sighthound breed from Bolivia
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Khala
The Khala is a medium-sized sighthound breed originating from Bolivia. It is a rare, primitive landrace breed that exists in two size varieties (Medio and Grande). The breed is known for its distinctive sighthound-like build, typically hairless body with tufts of hair on the feet and tail, though a coated variety also exists. Khala dogs are described as loyal, independent, intelligent, alert, and affectionate. Their recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 7 to 15 kg, height from 36 to 51 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 14 years. Energy, trainability, grooming, shedding, child suitability, dog compatibility, and apartment suitability are each rated 3 out of 5, indicating moderate levels. However, these ratings are modelled estimates and individual dogs may vary.
Quick facts
Khala at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupSighthound
OriginBolivia
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight7–15 kilogram
Female weight7–15 kilogram
Male height36–51 centimetre
Female height36–51 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Khala is a primitive landrace breed from the highlands of Bolivia, believed to have existed for centuries. It is traditionally used as a companion and sight-hunter, and is closely related to other South American hairless breeds such as the Peruvian Inca Orchid and Xoloitzcuintli. The breed is recognized by the FCI as the Bolivian Hairless Dog (Khala). Its exact historical timeline is not well documented, and much of its early history is based on oral tradition and limited records. The breed's development as a landrace means it was shaped by natural selection and local conditions rather than deliberate breeding programs. The Khala's recognition status varies by registry, and it is considered a rare breed internationally.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
7–15 kilogramAdult weight36–51 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodimported
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Loyalindependentintelligentalertaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Khala-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Related comparisons
Compare this breed
Growth chart
Khala puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight7–15 kilogramAdult female weight7–15 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Khala?
The Khala is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 7 to 15 kg, and height from 36 to 51 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and individual dogs may differ.
What is the temperament of a Khala?
Khala dogs are described as loyal, independent, intelligent, alert, and affectionate. However, temperament can vary between individuals, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Khala need?
The Khala has a moderate energy level (rated 3 out of 5). This suggests it needs regular exercise but is not excessively high-energy. As a sighthound, it may enjoy running, but individual needs can vary.
What are the grooming requirements for a Khala?
Grooming needs are moderate (rated 3 out of 5). The hairless variety requires skin care, while the coated variety may need brushing. Shedding is also moderate (rated 3 out of 5). Specific grooming routines depend on the coat type.
Is a Khala suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 3 out of 5, indicating moderate suitability. Some individuals may be good with children and other dogs, but early socialization and supervision are recommended. Not every Khala will behave the same.
Can a Khala live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, meaning it can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise. However, as a sighthound, it may have a strong prey drive and need secure outdoor spaces.
Where does the Khala originate from?
The Khala originates from Bolivia. It is a primitive landrace breed from the highlands, traditionally used as a companion and sight-hunter. It is closely related to other South American hairless breeds.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.