small Breed Dogs
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Xoloitzcuintli
Toy Breed Dogs
Small Breed Dogs






What you MUST Know Before Getting a Puppy
Forget about the normal list that everyone writes about..."puppy proof your home", "choose the right breed".  The information you must know, goes MUCH deeper than that. This is information that no one talks about, the behind-the-scenes info you really should know before you make your choice....Click to Read More

Average Weight Toy:  9-18 lbs. (4.08-8.16 kg)
Average Weight Miniature:  13-22 lbs. (5.9-9.98 kg)
Average Weight Standard:  22-31 lbs. (9.98-14.06 kg)
 Average Height Toy: 10-14 inches (25.4-35.56 cm)
Average Height Miniature: 14-18 inches (35.56-45.72 cm)
Average Height Standard: 18-23 inches (45.72-58.42 cm)
Pronounced: Show-low-eets-queent-lee
 Group:  Miscellaneous Class
 Life Span: 15+ Years
 Average Litter: 4
 Origin: Mexico (debated)

Description

The Xoloitzcuintli is also spelled Xoloitzcuintle and its nickname is Xolo.  Often, Xolos are called the Mexcian hairless dogs. This breed shown in the AKC miscellaneous class and can be registered with the The Xoloitzcuintli Club of America and  the Xoloitzcuintli Club USA.

There are actually both hairless and coated varieties.  In addtion, this dog is categorized in 3 sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard.

The hairless Xolo has no hair except for possibly a small tuft of short, coarse hair on the head, nape of neck, paws and tail as you can see from this picture to the right.

The coated variety has a short, sleek, flat coat with no bare patches.

Colors

Color range from black to grey, red, liver or bronze to a golden yellow, pink and fawn, merle and brown and can be either solid or spotted. The eye color of a Xoloitzcuintli can vary from yellow to black and are almond shaped. The nose can be brown, black or spotted. Needless to say this dog's stats are just about as complicated as its name!

Personality

Whether toy, miniature or standard, this dog breed makes an excellent companion.  Typically the Xolo is calm but always ready to announce the presence of strangers to his human family members.  Most Xolo dogs are cheerful, attentive and very loyal.  They are naturally protective, however once their owner acts calm with a stranger, this dog often then acts very aloof, not giving them much thought.

When socialized correctly, this dog is usually very good with children.  He generally is a fast learner, but must be trained to respect his owner and know that it is the human who is the "Alpha Dog" of the household.

A rather amusing nickname is often given to the Xoloitzcuintli of "the Velcro dog", and this is because they tend to stay very close to their humans and do not have any instinct or desire to run off.  A very interesting fact about these dogs is that they are capable of climbing trees, as they were bred to be excellent climbers.  This can be quite surprising to an owner who is not prepared for such a sight.


Origin & History
This is reputed to be one of the world's oldest breeds, dating back almost 6000 years.  Clay pottery and artifacts depicting this dog have been found in the tombs of the Colima, Mayan and Aztec.  It is believed that this breed was highly prized for its loyalty, intelligence and what was believed to be mystical powers. 

While this dog is called the Mexican hairless dog and most list its origin as being Mexico, there are some different theories about the actual origin of the Xoloitzcuintli. Some believe that this breed goes back to African dogs that developed further in Sough America, while other consider that the breed may have developed in China. 

However, it is widely accepted that this breed was with the Aztec, no matter by what means.

The first Xolo dogs were shown in the States in 1883, but in 1959 the AKC withdrew registration due to very low numbers of dogs.  Now the Xoloitzcuitli is listed under the AKC's Foundation Stock Service and has been designated the official dog of Mexico. 

Health
This is a very healthy breed with no known breed related health concerns.  For this reason, the average life span is 15 years, however it is not uncommon for a Xolo to live to 20. 
Exercise

Exercise needs are just about the same no matter which size.  Just a good daily walk and occasional play time outside is needed.  Therefore, this dog can do well with apartment living.

Shedding

Shedding is next to nothing for the hairless variety and for the coated "Mexican hairless dog" shedding is extremely minimal and barely noticed.

Grooming
Coated dog should be brushed and bathed as normal, with a brushing every 4-5 days and a bather every 8 weeks or so.

The hairless Xoloitzcuintli should be bathed and then moisturized about 2 times per month.  It is important to use hypoallergenic moisturizer and to cover all parts of the body. Sunscreen should be applied if you are to be outside with your Xolo for any time span of 20 minutes or greater. 

It is a balancing act in regard to baths and lotion.  Too many baths can strip the dog's skin of its natural oils which is needed for health and applying too much lotion can clog the pores.  As each dog is an individual, owners must do this by trial and error.

Care and Training
As stated above, care for the skin is of utmost importance for the hairless variety.  The hairless Xolo can be prone to acne and sunburn.   Correct socialization with children is important for this dog and due to its "Velcro" like need to be very close to his owners, training for separation anxiety may be needed.

If you are thinking about getting a puppy, you may wish to read some important information about purchasing a puppy. Just click here.

If you already own a Xolo or other toy or small breed  dog, you may wish to click here for more detailed information.

                                           
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