Description: The Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) is a a sensitive breed of above average intelligence and devotion. They are protective, but will meet aggression, rather than instigate it, taking their cues from their master's uneasiness of a situation or person. Xoloitzcuintli are still primitive to some degree and needs to be guided by reason and respect, rather than force of will. Though the Xoloitzcuintli is known as a hairless breed, litters often contain pups that are fully coated. Because the coated pups have traditionally been destroyed at birth, there is no standardization in coat color. This perhaps, has led breeders to believe that the coated pups are mixed breed puppies. A short course in genetics will disprove this belief. The coated Xoloitzcuintli has a short, course coat that sheds minimally. The coated Xoloitzcuintli is recognized by the UKC.

Other Names: Mexican Hairless

Height: Standard: 22 1/2 inches. Toy: Under 13" for the Miniature: 13"-18"

Colors: Hairless Xoloitzcuintli may be black, charcoal, lighter gray, bronze, liver or red. Solid colors are preferred, but some do have spots. Coated dogs can be any color, or combination of colors.
Coat: Hairless Xoloitzcuintli may have hair on head, feet and/or tail. Some will be completely hairless. Coated Xoloitzcuintli have short, course hair that sheds minimally.

Temperament: The Xoloitzcuintli is a calm, quiet dog, cheerful, attentive, alert. Suspicious towards strangers, good watchdog, excellent pet. The Xolo (Xoloitzcuintli) is exceptionally intuitive and affectionate with their family.
With Children: Yes, excellent with children, completely at ease with their sudden movements.
With Pets: Yes
Special Skills: Watchdog and family pet.

Watch-dog: High
Guard-dog: Standard size is high, taking their cues from their master's uneasiness
with a situation or person. The smaller sizes are less likely to guard/protect.

Care and Exercise: Hairless Xoloitzcuintli tolerate sun quite well, though spots lack pigment and need sun block. Though the hairless Xolo does need greater protection from the elements, they are hardy and can tolerate even extreme cold for brief periods of time. Does not require much exercise. To play and romp will keep them content, but they will also enjoy a walk on the leash.

Training: Early socialization and firm handling, without harsh correction or heavy handedness are imperative. Without these, the pups may grow to be fearful of new situations and insecure. This isn't a breed for permissive parents, or tyrants.
Learning Rate: Very high. The Xoloitzcuintli wants to please their master.

Activity: Moderate to Low. Xolos (Xoloitzcuintli) do very well in apartments with daily walks as
well in the country with room to run.
Living Environment: The Xoloitzcuintli needs to be involved in family life more than any other single thing. They will not thrive if confined to the backyard for long periods of time without human interaction. A Xolo, even fully coated should be considered an indoor dog.

Health Issues: A Xoloitzcuintli has no known genetic problems at this point. Some do have drug sensitivities, and caution must be used when using any chemical for the first time.

Life Span: 12 - 15 years
Litter Size: 4

Country of Origin: Mexico
History: The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless, is among the oldest of purebred dogs. The breed was regarded as the earthly representative of the god Xolotl, from which its name is derived. Their most important task may have been to accompany the souls of the dead to their final place of rest. However, they were also regarded as a source of food, protector of the home, family companion and healer of various ailments.

Registries: FCI (Group 5), UKC

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