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Xoloitzcuintli Facts
- Group
- Other Breed Classes
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- Toy: 10" - 15"
Mini: 15" - 20"
Standard: 20" - 25" - Weight
- Toy: 9-18 lbs.
Mini: 13-22 lbs.
Standard: 20-31 lbs. - Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Xolo, Mexican hairless dog.
Origin
The oldest document recognizing the Xolo is dated at least 3,000 years, however, this breed may have existed before that.
Date Of Origin
The Xolo developed in Mexico.
History
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-eets-queen-tli) is believed to date back three thousand years, preceding the Aztec Empire. It was held in great esteem by both the Mayan and Tolec cultures, who believed it to be a manifestation of the god Xolotl. It was late used as a sort of tonic by the Aztecs, who believed that contact with the skin could cure illness. When the Aztec were defeated by the Spanish, the breed quickly dwindled but was kept extant by native Indians. Interest in this breed was revived in the mid twentieth century.
Description
This is a small to medium size dog that is slightly taller than it is long. It resembles a combination of terrier and sighthound and has a range of varieties, including toy, miniature, and standard, as well as hairless and coated. It has a broad head with forehead wrinkles when it is alert. The muzzle is longer than the skull with a strong chin. It has almond eyes that range from yellow to dark brown and a nose that may be dark brown, black or spotted. Its large ears are to the side when relaxed but erect when alert. It has hare feet and a long, low tail. Coated dogs have a short, flat coat while hairless dogs have no hair except on the lower portion of the tail, the forehead and the nape of the neck.
Temperament
The Xolo is a faithful and affectionate family pet but may be wary with strangers. It is highly intelligent and active with a happy, calm demeanor. It gets along with children and other animals as long as it is socialized.
Uses
In the past this dog was used to cure the ill and to lead their owners into the afterlife, however in the nineteenth century, this breed became solely a companion dog. Due to its abilities as a barker it makes a useful watchdog as well.
Health Concerns
Acne, missing teeth, skin and food allergies, skin infection, sun burn.
Additional Information
This breed is fit for city life as well as life in the suburbs or country.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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