XoloitzcuintleCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says the breed is of very ancient origin. In pre-Hispanic Mexico, Xoloitzcuintle meat was eaten by the indigenous peoples at special ceremonies, and the dog was regarded as the representative of the god Xolotl, from whom it takes its name. Its role was to guide the souls of the dead to the underworld. Because of this, it became rare and almost died out.

The Mexican Kennel Federation saved the breed and has used it on its logo since 1940. The hairless variety is also called “perro pelón mexicano”, while the indigenous peoples called the coated one “itzcuintle”. Wikipedia says that in 2016 the mayor of Mexico City declared it a “cultural heritage and symbol” of the city.

How the breed developed

• Pre-Hispanic Mexico – The dog of the god Xolotl.
• 1940 – It appears on the logo of the Mexican kennel club.
• 6 November 1961 – The FCI recognises the breed.
• 2016 – Declared a symbol of Mexico City.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a natural primitive dog, shaped by evolution, slender and elegant, moderate in every respect, expressing speed, harmony and strength. The AKC says its forehead wrinkles when it is alert.

General appearance

In the hairless variety, the hallmark of the breed is the total absence of hair on the body; on the forehead and nape there may be a few short, coarse hairs, no longer than 2.5 cm, and coarse hair on the feet and the tip of the tail. The AKC says the skin is tough and protective. The coated variety has short, smooth, close-lying hair.

The standard prefers dark, solid-coloured skin: black, greyish black, slate grey, dark grey, reddish, liver, bronze or blond. There may be patches of any colour, including white. The coated variety comes in the same colours.

The standard describes it as quiet and calm, cheerful, alert and intelligent, sometimes suspicious of strangers, a good guard dog and an excellent companion, never aggressive.

The AKC gives it 4 out of 5 for ease of training. It responds well to rewards and to a consistent owner; early socialisation helps it with strangers.

Tips for effective training

• Socialise it early. It can be suspicious of strangers.
• Use rewards. It learns easily.
• Protect its skin. Sun and cold affect it.
• Keep its mind busy. The AKC gives 4 out of 5 for its need for stimulation.

It needs daily walks and play. The hairless variety must be protected from strong sun and from cold when it goes out.

Tips for a balanced life

• It suits an apartment.
• Sun cream and a winter coat for the hairless dog.
• Brush its teeth often.

Coat and skin care

The hairless variety does not shed, but its skin needs care: occasional baths and protection from sun and cold. The coated variety should be brushed from time to time. The AKC recommends checking the ears and brushing the teeth often.

Common health problems

The AKC says the Xolo is generally healthy, and responsible breeders check their dogs for:

Other care

• Brush its teeth often.
• Protect the skin from the sun.
• Check the ears regularly.

The AKC recommends good-quality food suited to the dog's age, and attention to its weight.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• The portion depends a lot on size.
• Treats count towards the daily portion.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months. Most breeds become adults at around 13–15 months.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In dogs, a litter has 5–6 puppies on average, and the number rises with the size of the breed. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• The dog of the god Xolotl. It guided the souls of the dead.
• Three sizes. Standard, intermediate and miniature.
• Different siblings. Hairless and coated puppies can be born in the same litter.
• On the Mexican club's logo. Since 1940.
• A symbol of the capital. Mexico City declared it a symbol in 2016.

Coco (2017)

Wikipedia says Dante, the dog in the Disney/Pixar animated film “Coco”, is a Xoloitzcuintle.

Frida Kahlo

Wikipedia says the Xolo appears in Frida Kahlo's paintings, including “The Love Embrace of the Universe, the Earth (Mexico), Myself, Diego and Señor Xolotl”, reproduced on the 500-peso banknote of 2007.

Does it have hair?

There are both coated and hairless dogs.

How big does it get?

In three sizes, from 25 to 60 cm.

What breed is the dog in “Coco”?

A Xoloitzcuintle called Dante.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 13–18 years.