Xoloitzcuintli

Breed Snapshot:

• Weight: 11-27kg
• Height: 35-58cm
• Breed size: Small to Medium
• Lifespan: 12-14 years
• Dog breed group: Non-Sporting
• Shed level: Low

Desciption and History

Originating over 3,000 years ago in ancient Aztec times, the Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless or Xolo for short, has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with Mexican culture. Revered by the Aztecs for their healing powers, Xolos were believed to be able to ward off evil spirits and were often used for food, sacrifice, or as a gift to the gods. However, they were also kept as pets and were highly regarded for their loyalty and affectionate nature. Despite being almost wiped out during the Spanish conquest of Mexico, this rare breed has since made a comeback and has become a beloved breed in Mexico and beyond.

Characteristics

The Xolo comes in a variety of colours including charcoal, slate, reddish gray, liver, bronze, pink or coffee colored spots. However, despite this variety, the Xoloitzcuintli is still a relatively rare breed, and may not be easy to find through traditional channels.
Some of its most distingusing features include naturally standing ears and hairless body, except for a tuft of coarse hair on their skull
Due to a genetic predisposition, this breed also may lack a full set of teeth, although most have their front teeth and molars.

Training and Exercise

As an intelligent and eager-to-please breed, the Xoloitzcuintli responds well to positive reinforcement training methods. While they enjoy a variety of activities, from agility courses to obedience training, Xolos require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay engaged and healthy. Owners can engage them in activities like puzzle toys or games of fetch to keep them mentally stimulated and provide them with regular exercise.

Living Environment

They may not be as well-suited to living in busy or crowded environments as some other breeds. However, with proper socialization and training, Xolos can adapt to a variety of living situations, including apartment living.

It's important to remember that these dogs are hairless, which means they can be more sensitive to temperature changes than other breeds. As a result, it's important to ensure that your Xolo has access to a comfortable indoor environment where they can regulate their body temperature and stay warm in cooler weather.

Grooming

In addition to temperature regulation, Xoloitzcuintlis also have unique skin care needs due to their lack of hair. Because they don't have fur to protect them from the sun, Xolos are at risk of sunburn and skin damage if they spend too much time in direct sunlight. To prevent this, it's important to apply a pet-safe sunscreen to your Xolo's skin if they will be spending time outdoors in the sun. This is especially important if you live in a sunny climate or plan to take your Xolo on outdoor adventures. Otherwise, your Xolo may come back from the trip looking like a lobster!

Health Problems

Xolos are generally a healthy and long-lived breed, with a lifespan of around 12-14 years. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here are some health problems that are more commonly seen:

• Skin issues: Xolos are prone to a variety of skin problems, including allergies, acne, and bacterial or fungal infections. Their hairlessness and sensitivity to temperature changes can make them more susceptible to these issues.
• Dental issues: While Xolos do have some teeth, they are often missing several teeth or have malformed teeth due to a genetic condition called hypodontia. This can lead to dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.
• Eye issues: Xolos can be prone to a variety of eye problems, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and glaucoma. These issues can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
• Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition in which the hip joint does not form properly, leading to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Xolos can be prone to hip dysplasia, so it's important to have them screened for the condition if you're considering getting a Xolo puppy.
• Patellar luxation: This is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and difficulty walking. Xolos can be prone to patellar luxation due to their small size and leg structure.

Xoloitzcuintli FAQs

How do you pronounce Xoloitzcuintli

Xoloitzcuintli is pronounced "show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee"

What do xoloitzcuintli eat

Given the Xoloitzcuintli's genetic predisposition to missing premolars, it may be helpful to provide them with a softer diet that's easier for them to chew and digest. This can include commercial wet dog food or home-cooked meals that have been mashed or blended. Additionally, you may want to consider adding dental supplements or chews to their diet to help maintain their dental health. It's important to choose a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and to avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are toxic to dogs. If you have concerns about your Xolo's diet or dental health, it's best to consult with a Vet for personalised advice.

Are Xoloitzcuintlis hypoallergenic?

The Xolo is often considered a hypoallergenic breed because it has minimal to no hair, which means it sheds less and produces less dander than breeds with fur. However, it's important to note that the Xolo still produces dander, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. While the Xolo may be a good choice for people who are sensitive to dog hair, it's best for allergy sufferers to spend time with adult Xolos to determine if they react to the breed's dander. Overall, the Xolo is one of the breeds that may be more suitable for people with dog allergies, but individual reactions can still vary.

Did you know ...

Xolos have a unique skin chemistry that makes them resistant to certain types of mites and ticks. This trait has led to the development of specialized Xolo breeding programs that aim to produce dogs with even stronger parasite resistance!