Xoloitzcuintli Dog Breed Information

Posted on May 14, 2019, Modified : Nov 22, 2019 Zina

Breeds

Country of Origin	Mexico
Nicknames and Other Names	Xolo, Xolito Xoloitzcuintle Xoloescuincle
Scientific Name	Canislupus familiaris
Breed Type	Purebred
Group	Non-sporting Group Toy Group
Bred For	Healing dog
Size	toy, miniature, and standard
Recognized By	AKC, KC, UKC, CKC, FCI
Life Span	13-18 years
Ideal Weight	Toy: 10-15 pounds Miniature: 15-30 pounds Standard: 30-55 pounds
Ideal Height	Toy: 10-14 inches Miniature: 14-18 inches Standard: 18-23 inches
Fur Type	Small portion of hair on the head and tail
Common Colors	Black, Dark Brown, Liver, Brindle, Fawn, Bronze
Markings	Spotted, Tan markings, White markings, Black markings
Availability	Rarely available
Achievements	Featured in movies and books
Suitable for Apartments	Yes
Used in World War	No
Most Similar To	Amerian Hairless Terrier

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced as show-low-eats-queen-tlee) is an ancient breed also known as Mexican Hairless dog, Tepezcuintli or just Xolo. It comes in three different sizes, which are, toy, miniature, and standard.

They also come in both coated and non-coated variety which can be in the same litter. It is best suited in a warm place and cannot tolerate cold weather due to their hairless body.

The Xoloitzcuintli has a hairless appearance that possesses grace, elegance, and strength. All three sizes have the same sturdy, muscular, and lean body. They have a thoughtful looking expression with almond-shaped eyes. The neck is slightly long, elegant, and powerful. The legs are straight and well-muscled.

Origin and History

The Xoloitzcuintli was originated in Mexico that has a history that goes back to about 3000 years. Ancient Aztecs considered Xoloitzcuintli as sacred and usually sacrificed and buried alongside their owner. They were used as healers in ancient times.

People believed, it would cure any disease and they used to place its warm skin on the wounded area to draw out the pain and sickness.

Xoloitzcuintli history — Xoloitzcuintli ancient look.
Image Source: AKC

The United Kennel Club recognized Xoloitzcuintli in 1993 and the American Kennel Club in 2011 as the member of the Non-Sporting Group. it is taken as a national treasure in Mexico.

Is Xoloitzcuintli Child-Friendly?

The Xoloitzcuintli is very good with children of all age and can get along with them well. However, they do not like their tail and ears being pulled, so teach your kids to behave around dogs. They have delicate skin and small children might pull and play rough, Therefore, close supervision during Xoloitzcuintli interaction with kids is needed.

Xoloitzcuintli is child friendly — A girl holding Xoloitzcuintli puppies.
Image Source: Instagram-@kinich_ahau_kennel

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The Xoloitzcuintli has a sweet, loving, and calm temperament. They are active and naturally protective of their people. They are wary of strangers and will bark at them if they see one approaching. Therefore, they make great watchdogs and also guard dogs.

Behavior: Xoloitzcuintli is very attached to all the family members and especially with one specific person. If it is left alone for a long period of time, it can be depressing and get separation anxiety. Therefore, it is not a good idea to leave it alone for along time.

Personality: The Xoloitzcuintli has a friendly, loving, and smart personality. They love their people and thrives to be around them either playing or just sitting by their side. They are very adaptable dogs that can adjust both in a large family or just with a single person.

Trainability

Training Xoloitzcuintli is not so hard job to do as they are smart and catch commands quickly. However, they should be taught from an early age. Train them with firmness and consistency.

Do not use harsh words or a forced hand on them as it will scare them and they will not be able to focus on training. Reward them with treats and vocal praises as to encourage and motivate them.

Facts

The Dante in the Movie “Coco” is a Xoloitzcuintli.
The name Xoloitzcuintli is derived from the name of the Aztec god Xolotl and ‘ltzcuintli’ means dog.
Xoloitzcuintli has appeared in paintings made by famous Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

Xoloitzcuintli with Diego Rivera.
Image Source: Rover.com

Health Issues

General Health	Healthy
Common Health Issues	Acne, Skin Irritation, Dry Skin
Hypoallergenic	Yes
Vaccination Required	Rabies, Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Distemper, Canine Coronavirus, Canine Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough
Shedding	None to Minimal
Drooling	Low Drooler
Grooming	Easy and Minimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain Potential	Average
Separation Anxiety	High Chance
Allergies	Skin Allergy
Diets and Supplements	Protein: 23% Fat: 8% Glucosamine Probiotics Digestive Enzymes Fish Oil

The average life span of the Xoloitzcuintli is between 13-18 years with only one main hairless dog’s health problems:

Skin disease: Sunburn is very common in the hairless breed as their skin is exposed and they are prone to sunburn. It causes rashes on the skin and they will feel a burning sensation. It can be controlled or prevented with the use of dog’s sunscreen and putting clothes on to your dog before taking it out. However, consult a vet before putting any cream to your dog’s skin.