TheArgentine Pila orPerro Pila Argentino is an Argentinebreed ofhairless dog.[1] It was recognised by theAsociación Canina Argentina in 2007.[1][2] It forms part of the large group of South American hairless breeds and types, but is distinct from other modern breeds such as theChinese Crested, thePeruvian Hairless and theXoloitzcuintle.[3] It is generally dark-skinned, or light-skinned with dark spots.[4] Hairlessness in this breed along with other South American breeds is caused by a dominant mutation in the FOXI3 gene, which results in a loss of hair as the mutation affects ectodermal development.[5] As the FOXI3 gene not only has an influence on hair follicles but the formation of teeth as well; the same mutation also causes dental differences.[5]
It is estimated that approximately 1,700 of these dogs are in Argentina, predominantly in theSalta province in the north of the country.[6]
