Xoloitzcuintli

Description

The Xoloitzcuintli, also referred to as the Mexican Hairless Dog or simply Xolo, is a breed of robust dog that originated in Mexico.

It is one of the oldest and rarest breeds, having been around for not less than 3,000 years. As a matter of fact, the Aztecs held the breed in high regard and believed that they have mystical healing abilities.

Furthermore, Aztecs believe that Xolos were created by the gods to guard the living and guide souls of the dead through the dangers of the underworld.

Today, the breed belongs to the Non-Sporting group and have been bred to become hunting dogs as well as family companions. And the breed comes in three types: toy, miniature, and standard variants.

Xolos could either be coated or hairless, with the latter being the more popular kind. Their skin is soft and smooth, though it can be hardy enough to the outside elements. Furthermore, they come in various colors such as black, slate, bronze, gray, red, brindle, fawn; whether solid or somewhat spotted.

Height and Weight

Toy

The male and female Xoloitzcuintli members of the Toy variant stand a height of 9 to 14 in at the withers, and weigh 5 to 15 lbs.

Miniature

Miniature Xolos typically have a height of about 15 to 20 in at the withers, and a weight of 15 to 30 lbs.

Standard

Members of the Standard Xoloitzcuintli typically stand a height of 20 to 30 in at the withers, and weigh between 25 to 40 lbs. Although, some members of the line can be more than 60 lb.

Temperament

Xoloitzcuintlis, in general, are alert, athletic dogs that tend to be loyal and very loving towards its family owners.

And early socialization is recommended to help them bond well with children as well as keep them from becoming too reserved toward strangers. The breed is innately protective, and needs proper human leadership to remain manageable.

Xolos respond well to house-training, and they learn really quickly. As a matter of fact, these intelligent hairless dogs excel at obedience and agility trials, therapy, and even in conformation. They also bond well with people, and are commonly reputed as velcro dogs as they always stick around their masters.

Additionally, Xoloitzcuintli have great survival skills that hardly ever tolerate abuse or any unstable environment. And because of the breed’s propensity to develop Small Dog Syndrome, handlers are expected to display firm yet gentle leadership approach over them.

Grooming

Both the hairless and coated varieties of the breed are easy to groom.

Hairless Xolos are prone to skin problems so excessive bathing or use of too much lotion unnecessary. Bathing sessions and rubbing the breed with lotion shall only be done once a month. And the use of sunscreen is highly recommended when these dogs are taken out for long periods of time.

Meanwhile, coated Xolos, on the other hand, need to be brushed every week to minimize shedding. Occasional bathing may also be done with the use of mild dog shampoo. And for those pets with white spots, use of sunscreen is also highly recommended.

Health Concerns

Xoloitzcuintli are generally a very hardy and healthy breed. As a matter of fact, they have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Owners, however, have to carefully watch out for possible skin problems, especially for Hairless Xolos.

Best Environment

Because of the breed’s size, they are usually recommended for apartment-living. Xoloitzcuintlis love to be with their family owners so leaving them outside for extended periods of time is not advisable.

Furthermore, young members of the breed need a great deal of exercise, attention, and discipline to keep them happy. The breed, however, calms down as they mature. Additionally, access to a safe yard is recommended.