Also called the Mexican Hairless Dog or the Xolo for short, the Xoloitzcuintli (show-low-eats-queent-lee) is a loyal and loving canine companion with a calm temperament.
If you’re not sure whether the Xolo is the right breed for you, keep reading. The following important Xoloitzcuintli breed information will help you decide.
In terms of size, the Xoloitzcuintli, which belong to the AKC’s Non-Sporting Group, comes in three sizes. Toy Xolos are 10-14 inches tall and weigh 10-15 pounds. Miniature Xolos are 14-18 inches tall and weigh 15-30 pounds. Standard sized Xoloitzcuintlis are 18-23 inches tall and weigh 30-55 pounds. This a long-lived breed. The average lifespan of a Xoloitzcuintli is 13-18 years.
Xoloitzcuintli are very affectionate with family members and do reasonably well with young kids in terms of tolerance and patience with children’s behaviors. They can get along with other dogs provided they receive early socialization with other animals as puppies.
Xolos are very playful and quite open to strangers, but can still be moderately good watchdogs. This is an adaptable breed that can adjust to changes in routine. Xoloitzcuintli are an excellent choice for apartment dwellers. They are very sensitive however and do not tolerate being alone for long periods. Novice owners may want to consider other breeds instead of a Xolo. These dogs have a very strong prey drive and wanderlust potential.
Xoloitzcuintli are eager to please and can be trained with reward-based methods and by setting clear boundaries. This breed has moderately high energy levels and is easily bored, so Xolos require a good amount of physical activity and mental stimulation daily. Long walks are best to release pent up energy, and once accomplished, the Xolo will be calm and serene when indoors. The barking level of a Xolo dog is moderate to high.
Xoloitzcuintli have a short smooth dark-colored coat and also come in a hairless variety. They require very little grooming care and are not heavy droolers either. The hairless variety of the Xoloitzcuintli needs sun protection.
All in all, Xoloitzcuintli are intelligent, calm, graceful, and sturdy dogs that make wonderful family pets. The hairless body means that a Xolo does not have the striking goods looks of say, a Golden Retriever, but this is a lean, muscular dog that is good looking in its own way.
If you want to bring home a Xoloitzcuintli puppy, check out listings of reputable and responsible Xolo breeders on Puppy Hero.
