Dog Profile-Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)

It is believed that this dog has been around for more than three thousand years.It prospered in Maya and Toltec cultures which believed it was an emissary of the god Xolote,a deity who guided the souls of the dead to the underworld.Later,the Aztecs considered Xoloitzcuintli to be an animal having healing properties,believing that touching its skin or eating its meat can cure all affections.When the Aztecs were subdued by the Spanish conquistadors,Xoloitzcuintli almost became extinct.During the fifteenth century many people became interested again in this dog breed.An interesting fact about this dog is that he has a constant body temperature of 40^o .

Origins: Mexico

Height: 30.0 - 58.0 cm

Weight: 4.0 - 14.0 kg

Physical Appearance: Xoloitzcuintli is a very well proportioned dog,its height being slightly bigger than its length.It has a broad skull and a long and thin snout.Its eyes are usually brown, medium-sized and almond-shaped.It has long,bat-like ears which provide it with a great sense of hearing.They have pretty long necks and tails.Most exemplaries of Xolos do not have any hair/fur but there are some which have small tufts of hair on their head and tail and also some which have short,soft hair on their entire body.Xolos come in a variety of colours:black, dark grey,dark brown and silver.

Personality: Xoloitzcuintlis are intelligent,calm and active dogs with a noble character.They do not bark but emmit a sound similar to a wolf's howl.They are very affectionate dogs that get along fine with children but are suspicious to strangers.They are usually friendly with other animals.

Care: Due to the lack of hair,their skins needs to be hydrated and moisturised.Use any cream or lotion recommended by your veterinarian.Do not expose them to sun for a long time as they can get heatstrokes and sunburns.For the short-haired Xolo variety,brush their coat regularly.

Environment: This dog is adaptable to both house and apartment life.It requires a devout and loving family as they are very sensitive and gentle dogs.It requires moderate activity and exercise.It likes to follow its owner and feels best while in his/her company.

Training: Xolos are very intelligent and trainable dogs.However,they require early socialisation

Utility: Xolos make excellent watchdogs due to their incredible sense of hearing but are also loving and sensitive companions.