Dog Breed Profile: Xoloitzcuintli

Pronounced "show-low-eats-kweent-lee," the Xoloitzcuintli is a rare breed of dog. This breed may also go by other names including the Mexican Hairless, the Tepeizeuintli and the Xolo. Xoloitzcuintli dogs are great for individuals who suffer from allergies or asthma because they shed very, very little and hardly ever produce any type of excessive pet dander.

Breed Description

The Xoloitzcuintli can either be hairless or coated. Within these two coat varieties, there are also several different colors including fawn colored, reds, bronze, various grays, black and brindle―all of which can come in a spotted or solid pattern.

The eyes are almond shaped, usually dark but they may also mimic the color of the dog. For example, a bronze colored Xolo may have bronze colored eyes.

When it comes to size, this breed offers three: toy, miniature and standard; which are all measured based on the height of the withers. The withers are the highest part of the shoulders. According to the American Kennel Club, a toy Xolo should be between 10 and 14 inches, a miniature between 14 and 18 inches and a standard Xolo should be between 18 inches and up to (and including) 23 inches.

History

The Xoloitzcuintli is among one of the oldest and most rare breeds of dog. The AKC states that the Xolos may very well have come with man across the Bering Straits, thousands upon thousands of years ago. Since then, it has been a companion dog to the Colima Indians, the Toltecs, the Mayans and the Aztecs.

In fact, the name is derived from ancient Aztec words: Xolotl, which is an Aztec Indian god and Itzcuintli, which is the Aztec word for dog.

Today, the modern Xolo is practically unchanged (based on archaeological findings of various ancient clay representations).

Temperament

The ideal temperament of the Xoloitzcuintli is described by the AKC as "calm, tranquil, aloof and attentive." These are intelligent little dogs; however―like any breed, they need to be properly trained and socialized. Without training and socialization, they too, can suffer from various behavioral issues.

Xolos are also relatively easy to house train and are known for being easily trained and quick to learn. They are great for many different competitions including agility, conformation and obedience. However, it does not end there and these dogs can also serve easily as companion pets or as therapy dogs.

Health

Fortunately, due to its history and lack of "selective breeding," this dog is a healthy, hardy breed with no specific breed-related health concern. With regular exercise, these dogs can live up with 20 years or more.

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Additional Information:

Dog Breed Info: Xoloitzcuintle

American Kennel Club (AKC): Xoloitzcintle Breed Standard

American Kennel Club (AKC): Xoloitzcintle History