Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

Although the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced SHOW-low-eats-QUEENT-lee), also known as the Xolo or Mexican Hairless, is one of the world’s oldest breeds – it has been around for more than 3,500 years – it didn’t made its Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show debut until 2012.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Xoloitzcuintli got its unusual name from a combination of the names of the Aztec Indian god Xolotl and the Aztec word for dog, which is “Itzcuintli.”

These calm, warm-skinned dogs have a historic reputation for being healers. The AKC notes they are frequently used in remote Mexican and Central American villages “to ward off and cure ailments like rheumatism, asthma, toothache and insomnia. Xolos were also believed to safeguard the home from evil spirits and intruders.”

There are three Xolo sizes – toy, miniature and standard – and they may be either hairless or have a short, flat coat.

Personality

Calm and tranquil
Aloof to strangers
Very intelligent
Excellent companion dogs

Size

Toy: 5-15 pounds; Miniature: 15-30 pounds; Standard: 25-40 pounds
Toy: 9-14 inches tall at the withers (shoulders); Miniature: 15-20 inches; Standard: 20-30 inches

Family & Home Life

According to the Dog Breed Info Center, all family members should participate in leadership, rearing, training and feeding so the Xolo doesn’t become attached to one family member
Thrive when given something to do
Escape artists, they need a secure, fenced yard
An excellent dog for arthritis sufferers, as their bodies radiate warm, soothing heat
Also a good choice for allergy sufferers since they don’t produce dander

Training & Exercise

Because of their intelligence, may be stubborn when it comes to training
Moderate exercise needs

Coat

The hairless variety may have tufts of short, coarse hair on the top of the head, feet and the lower part of the tail
The coated variety has a short, smooth, dark coat that may be black, gray, red, liver or bronze
Some coats have white spots and markings

Care

Easy to care for since they don’t shed, or have dander or fleas
For hairless varieties, be careful not to overbathe because it strips skin of natural oils
In colder climates, they may need to wear a sweater
Light-colored hairless Xolos may need to wear sunscreen outdoors

Health

Very hardy with no breed-related health concerns
Some are sensitive to drugs and anesthesia

Lifespan

15-20 years

Rescue

Visit Xolo Rescue USA to find a rescue near you.

PHOTO: Shmigget

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