MEXICAN HAIRLESS DOG (XOLO)

Temperament: Loyal, Alert, Calm
Height: 10-14 inches (toy), 14-18 inches (miniature), 18-23 inches (standard)
Weight: 10-15 pounds (toy), 15-30 pounds (miniature), 30-55 pounds (standard)
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
Group: Non-Sporting Group 

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, and two varieties: hairless and coated. The hairless has tough, smooth, close-fitting skin. The coated variety is covered by a short, flat coat. Both varieties come in dark colors, ranging from black, gray-black, and slate, to red, liver, or bronze. The face is thoughtful and intelligent, and a Xolo’s forehead will wrinkle when he’s deep in thought. The Xolo’s graceful, elegant body is surprisingly strong and rugged.

The Mexican hairless has a compact head with alert, upright bat ears. His snout is longer than his skull. His chest is considered deep and his stomach is muscular and lifted. His back is straight and ends in a rounded rump. His tail is long and thin. The dog’s feet are like those of a hare.

Other than a tuft of coarse hair on its skull, the Mexican hairless is indeed hairless. Consequently, the dog does not shed. His skin is soft, smooth and warm to the touch. These dogs are gray, gray-black or dark bronze, and some have pink or brown spots.

Unlike other dogs, the Mexican hairless sweats through the skin, including under its arms, and seldom pants after physical exertion. This dog also may lack a full set of teeth, although most have their front teeth and molars.

PERSONALITY

The Mexican hairless is considered intelligent, even-tempered, affectionate and playful. The dog is also protective and will bark at intruders.

Some Mexican hairless dogs tremble easily, which could be related to nervousness or lack of warmth.

Because of the dog’s smaller size, particularly the miniature variety, it may not do well with children who want to rough-and-tumble.

FEEDING

The Xoloitzcuintli should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

HEALTH

Xolos are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders will screen their stock for health concerns such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye disorders. As with all breeds, the Xolo’s ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life.

Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:

• Hip Evaluation (Standard)

• Ophthalmologist Evaluation (Miniature, Standard, and Toy)

• Cardiac Exam (Miniature, Standard, and Toy)

• Patella Evaluation (Miniature and Toy)

CARE

The smaller Xolo was bred as a companion and larger Xolo for protection. No matter which Xolo you choose, they need to be taken on a daily walk. While play can take care of a lot of the smaller Xolo’s exercise needs, as with all breeds, it will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. This breed is very hardy and adapts to many lifestyles, as it comes in many sizes for every need. All hairless breeds must be protected from severe cold and heat as you would yourself, wherever humans are Xolos can also be, providing they can live in the house with you. They make very poor kennel dogs or permanent outdoor pets, as they need to be part of the family. They do crate train very well and even prefer a nice quiet place to call their own for a few hours in the day or at night if they do not sleep with you as most do. Many owners paper train or litter box train the smaller size Xolo, so it does not need to go out in severe winter weather. However, when the weather is nice, no one loves the outdoors as much as a Xolo; they do like to sun bathe and bask in warm weather.

GROOMING

Coated Xolos have an easy-care short coat, requiring only occasional brushing. Adult dogs require minimal grooming, while younger dogs may suffer from adolescent acne when the skin may need special care. Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. The nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort. Hairless dogs need sunscreen with prolonged exposure to direct.

SOME PICTURES ABOUT THIS BREED

Source: akc, hillspet, dogbreedinfo.