Xoloitzcuintli Information

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(Show- low-its-queen-tli) (Mexican Hairless, Tepeizeuintli, Xoloitzcuintle, Xolo) The bright-eyed Xoloitzcuintli is recognized in three categories- toy, miniature, and standard- and in two varieties: hairless and coated. The hairless variety can have a small puff of hair on the head and tail but does not always. The coated variety’s fur should be short and sleek. Neither variety should have long or curly hair. They can come in many colors but the most common are bronze, slate, and charcoal. They can also come in brindle, red, or fawn. They  usually have wrinkles on their head and neck. They are a small but sturdy breed. Their ears are large and bat-like and their head should be broad with a narrow muzzle. The nose can be brown, black, or spotted. The eyes are slightly almond shaped and range in color from yellow to brown.

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The Xoloitzcuintli is very loving, affectionate, and loyal to their owners. But they can be cautious around strangers because they tend to be protective of their family. They can get along with other animals and children but they do require socialization at an early age. They are extremely intelligent which makes them well-suited for obedience training, as well as agility. Barking is usually minimal, and they are not as hyper as many small breeds. However, they do tend to get easily bored and would prefer to be around their family instead of left alone.

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10 - 23 inches

Standard: 22.5 inches Miniature: 13-18 inches Toy: Under 13 inches.
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9 - 23 pounds

Standard: 25-40 pounds Miniature: 15-25 pounds Toy: 5-15 pounds
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General Health

The Xoloitzcuintli, for the most part, is a very hardy breed with very few genetic diseases.  What health concerns it does have involve its skin including skin infections, skin allergies, and acne.  Additionally these dogs may have missing teeth and food allergies.  The breed lives to be 15 years of age and, on occasion, may reach nearly 20.

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The breed was seen in Aztec ruins around three thousand years ago. It was sought after in many Mayan and Aztec cultures for its intelligence and loyalty. These cultures also thought the breed was a reincarnation of their god, Xolotl, but was also used for food because eating its meat was believed to cure illnesses. The dogs were also used as bed warmers since they have naturally warm bodies.. The breed is now exclusively used for companionship and is common throughout South America.  The Xoloitzcuintli is rare in North America outside of Mexico.

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The main concern with this breed is its frail skin, especially with the hairless varieties.. They need sun protection, including sunscreen, to avoid sunburn and are prone to dry skin and lacerations. One main thing is to not over bathe them because that can cause their fragile skin, especially the skin around their ears, to dry out. At most they should be bathed only once or twice a month. The coated version, only needs a simple brushing at least once a week. They can handle high levels of exercise, but it is not required. Xoloitzcuintli are very laid back and calm but prefer to be a major part of the family, so they are not good outside dogs. In their first year, they need more attention and exercise so it is best to not leave them at home alone for long periods of time. They do handle crate training very well and take to paper training easily which is useful so they stay out of extreme weather conditions. They also need plenty of stimulation since they are highly intelligent. They can become bored easily so it is good to take them to a training or agility class and provide them with many toys.                 

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Ideal Environment

They are good in many environments, but they should probably not live in areas with extreme temperatures. They are good in city homes or in the country, and they get along well with children. The hairless version is hypo allergenic which makes it a good for people who are allergic to dogs. They would be best suited for active families and families who can give them lots of time and love.

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Xoloitzcuintli Q&A

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how much are these dogs sold for? are they only found in Mexico? would they survive in Canada? (cooler climates)

Yes, they can survive in Canada. My dog Macy wears a child's size 3 turtle neck all winter and boots to go outside. This breed has an exceptional personality - ours was hand raised as her mother (Maya) died during labour and she is a little spoiled.


If i'm leaving in Canada and I want to rescue a xolo from the xoloitcuintle rescue league, how does it work with the immigration? Do I need a permit to bring back the dog? Do you know any easier way to adopt a xolo if i'm in Quebec, Canada?

not too much involved with bringing your dog into canada. Customs will ask for the medical reports to ensure the dog is up to date with all required vaccinations and you will also need a copy of the receipt for the payment you made to the rescue league because sometimes, depending on the customs officer, they will make you pay duty or whatever the fee is called. If you dont have a receipt, they will give you a bit of a hassle.


My Xolo, Nina, was 7 months old when we got her, we have had her for 2 months. She very quickly bonded with me, but has yet to bond with anyone else in the family. They all think that I baby her (which is probably true). However, my husband has tried to take her out and when he went to put the leash on her, she bit him. If I put the sweater and leash on her, he can take her out. My son can get her sweater and leash on her and take her out but he has to corner her to get her out, he is the one who takes her out in the middle of the day for me. I ask her if she needs to go out and she'll follow me to the door. I don't understand why she won't bond with the family - she only wants me. Any ideas of what we can do to get her to look to others for attention, food, etc? FYI- Nina is completely house broken when we are paying attention to her. She is being spayed next week. Nina loves her toys and treats - but again, only wants them from me. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you, Dawn

This is a Xolo trait and I'm sure some experienced Xolo owners could help you out. Try reading this article first: http://xoloyourlove.blogspot.com/2012/01/wallys-world-chapter-3-busted.html. ..and get your husband and son to nicely coax Nina with some treats...Xolos are so sensitive to emotions and movement that "gently does it" seems to be the "necessary" action.


I am try to find a Xolo breeder somewhat near to Toronto Ontario any info would be greatly appreciated (will drive to the U.S.) I have been looking for quite some time. thank you, Tony

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