Pronounced as “show-low-eats-queen-tlee”, this is a dog breed from Central America or Mexico. Squinty eyes, a wrinkled brow, a Mohawk bisecting the top of the head, satellite-dish like ears, hairless body and a ratlike tail, the Xoloitzcuintli doesn’t exactly qualify as a cute or adorable dog. But people do love him for the way he stands out from the other ‘normal’ dogs.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Mexico
Used for: Companion, watchdog
Average Life Span: 15-20 years
Color: All colors
Coat: Hairless or short and smooth coat
Average Height: 9-15 inches
Average Weight: 15-30 pounds
Group: Sporting
History and Domestication
The Xolo is one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds and can truly be called the first dog of the Americas. Evidence suggests that these dogs accompanied people on their first migration across the Bering Straits. The name of this breed is derived from an Aztec Indian god Xoloti and Itzcuintli, the latter being the Aztec word for dog. The dog breed has had a reputation of being a healer due to its warm skin. The heat given off from their bodies was found to cure arthritis and many other ailments. They were also believed to safeguard homes against evil.
Standard Physical Characteristics
Hairless and coated are the two varieties available of this breed. The hairless Xolo is more sought after and it only has tuft of hair on its head. This is a lean, sturdy and well-muscled dog with the body being slightly longer than it is tall. The skull is wedge-shaped and gradually tapers towards the muzzle. The almond-shaped eyes are yellow to black in color. The big and erect ears are thin. The feet are webbed and tail is rat-like.
Care, Grooming and Health
There are two varieties available-short-haired Xolos and hairless dogs. They do not much grooming and the hairless Xolos tend to clean themselves like cats. But they do need occasional bathing and cleaning with a mild shampoo.
These dogs were bred for companionship and protection. They need to be walked daily. Play takes care of their exercise needs. The Xolo is a very hardy breed with no known breed-related health concerns.
Living Conditions
This breed is very adaptable and with proper exercise and training can adapt to any kind of household. However, these are not kennel dogs and shouldn’t be left alone in the backyard. They need to stay inside with the family.
Temperament
The Xolo is a calm dog who is a little aloof from strangers but very devoted and loyal to his family. He usually chooses one family member as his favorite but loves his entire family nevertheless. These dogs make excellent watchdogs and will alert you if anything unusual happens. They need daily walks and exercise and will happily bask in the sun. Take these dogs with you wherever you go because they do not like to be left alone.
