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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-eats-queen-tlee) is also known as the Mexican
Hairless Dog. There are two coat varieties: hairless and coated. The hairless variety
exhibits a total or almost total, absence of hair. The coated variety has a complete
coat with no thin or bare patches. The breed also comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature
and Standard. It has a clean appearance with a deep chest, strong shoulders, a long
neck and straight legs. The bat-like ears are carried erect. The tail must be full
length. Bobs or docked tails are a disqualification. There may be a wisp of short
hair on the forehead, nape, tail and feet in the hairless variety. The coat of the
coated variety is short and flat. Any color combination is accepted.
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Temperament
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The Xolo is a quiet, cheerful and attentive dog. Their alert nature makes them excellent
watch dogs. This calm breed is good with children but suspicious towards strangers.
The Xolo is very intelligent and affectionate with their family. They need human
contact to thrive and always want to be involved with every aspect of their family's
lives. They only bark when it is necessary. They may be a bit dog aggressive. Begin
socialization early. The Standard size is more likely to be a guard dog and will
take their cue to protect according to their master's uneasiness.
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Height, Weight
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Toy Height: 10-14" ; Weight: 9-18 lbs.
Miniature Height: 14.5-18" ; Weight: 13-22 lbs.
Standard Height: 18.5-23" ; Weight: 20-31 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Because the hairless variety of this breed lacks a coat, skin problems are common.
They will get rashes on their skin and require protection from the sun and the cold.
This breed does have sweat glands and will develop pimples, which will go away on
their own. This breed also has drug sensitivities, food allergies and may have missing
teeth.
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Living Conditions
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This breed will do fine living in an apartment. Both varieties should be considered
indoor dogs.
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Exercise
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This breed enjoys outdoor romps and lively games; however, they do not require a
lot of exercise.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15 years
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Grooming
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The hairless Xolo has no coat and is great for allergy sufferers. The coated variety
needs occasional brushing.
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Origin
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The Latin American Xolo is a very ancient breed dating back more than 3000 years.
They were held in high esteem by both the Toltec and Mayan civilizations; however,
the Aztecs enjoyed the breed in a culinary nature. The breed was near extinction,
but was adopted by remote mountain-dwelling Indians who revived the breed. The Xolo
is viewed as a national treasure in Mexico. This breed is recognized by the FCM (Mexican Kennel Club), AKC, UKC, and the FCI.
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Group
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AKC Non-Sporting, UKC Sighthound & Pariah Dog
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