Xoloitzcuintli Breed Guide
Also known as: Mexican Hairless Dog, Xoloitzcuintle, Tepeizeuintli
Ancient Mexican companions, Xoloitzcuintlis are calm, alert dogs whose hairless skin and primitive nature appeal to those appreciating unique, ancient breeds.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Toy/small/medium
Weight
5-25 kg
Lifespan
13-18 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
Size
Toy/small/medium
Weight
5-25 kg
Lifespan
13-18 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
About Xoloitzcuintlis
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the world's oldest breeds, originating in Mexico over 3,000 years ago. These dogs were considered sacred by the Aztecs and were believed to guide souls through the underworld, making them both companions and spiritual guardians.
Xoloitzcuintlis come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and two varieties (hairless and coated). The hairless variety has smooth, warm skin in various colours including black, grey, slate, bronze, and red. They're known for their calm, alert expressions and gentle, loyal personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, calm, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and are known for their loyal, protective nature. They require moderate exercise and are well-suited to various living situations. The hairless variety needs sun protection and may require sweaters in cold weather. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and certain eye conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted around strangers and other pets.
Complete Care Guide for Xoloitzcuintlis
Expert advice on keeping your Xoloitzcuintli healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of your Xoloitzcuintli's health and wellbeing. These unique dogs require carefully balanced meals that provide adequate protein for maintaining lean muscle mass, along with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support their active lifestyle.
Structured feeding schedules prove particularly important for Xoloitzcuintlis, as they can be prone to weight gain when allowed to free-feed. Measuring portions and maintaining consistent meal times helps prevent obesity while ensuring your dog receives appropriate nutrition. The specific amount will vary based on your Xoloitzcuintli's size, age, and activity level.
Adjusting nutrition through different life stages remains crucial. Puppies require nutrient-dense foods to support growth, while adult dogs need balanced maintenance diets, and seniors may benefit from specially formulated senior foods. Throughout all life stages, fresh water should remain constantly available, as proper hydration supports every bodily function.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Xoloitzcuintli, also known as Xolos, are known for their calm and tranquil temperament. They're intelligent, affectionate, and are known to form deep bonds with their family members. Despite their quiet nature, they can be quite alert and make excellent watchdogs. Socialisation from a young age is essential to ensure they're comfortable around strangers and other animals.
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