Group 7: Non Sporting
Height: Three sizes
Standard Variety: 46 – 60 cm
Intermediate Variety: 36 – 45 cm
Miniature Variety: 25 – 35 cm
Energy Level: Very High
Original Function: Religious & Medicinal Purpose
Lifespan: 12 – 16 yrs
Recommended for: Active people who have the time to spend with the breed and promoting the breed (The breed is rare worldwide numbering 4- 5 thousand).
The Xoloitzcuintle (Show-low-its-queen-tli) also known as the Mexican hairless dog or Xolo, is one of several breeds of hairless dog. It is found in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes.
The Xolo is one of the worlds oldest and rarest breeds dating back over 3,000 years. They were highly prized for their loyalty, intelligence, curative and mystical powers, and they are now considered a natural treasure in Mexico. It is unique in the fact that it is a product of natural selection, created and moulded by environmental adaptation, rather than selective breeding. The Xolo’s traits are natural selection.
The Xolo today is being acknowledged with increased interest, for there companionship, loyalty, cleanliness and flexibility. They make great companions, show, agility, obedience, therapy and service dogs.
Appearance: The Xolo is a rare and primitive breed formed in response to natural selection. The breed occurs naturally in two varieties, hairless and coated. The hairless dog is a very attractive dog; the most important characteristic is the complete or almost complete lack of any hair, with a smooth and soft skin.
The hairless should never be hairy or possess long, wavy or wire hair. It is moderate in all aspects of its appearance, conveying, strength, agility and elegance. The coated should appear the same proportions.
Temperament: The Xoloitzcuintle is known to be apprehensive/suspicious towards strangers, this usually disappears with age. All puppies must be socialised from 3 months old. As youngsters Xolos can be stubborn and unruly and require a lot of time and training with discipline and a set routine, as adults they are dignified and elegant being very loyal.
Xoloitzcuintle are intelligent, friendly, and alert, as a primitive working breed, the Xolo possess the hardiness of a feral dog, the keen senses of a hunting breed, the fearlessness and natural reserve of a working breed, and the unwavering loyalty of the most well bred companion.
Colour:
Hairless: Solid, uniform, dark colours are preferred. The range includes black, blackish grey, slate grey, dark grey, reddish, liver, bronze, and blond. There may also be spots of any colour, including white or tri-coloured markings.
Coated: It can have any colour or combination of colours in different tones. The hair may be of any length and texture, covering the entire body.
Coat: Two types coated and hairless. Skin should be moisturised to protect from sunspots and hard skin, coated dogs should receive a groom with the daily health checks.
Grooming: Weekly bathing and skin exfoliation essential.
Exercise: At least an hour a day is required to keep the breed in tip top condition both mentally and physically.
Health: No known health issues with the breed, however a good breeder will carry out Hip and Elbow x-rays and have yearly eye exams.