Dog Breeds - Xoloitzcunitli

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of friendliness a type of dog exhibits towards family and familiar faces can vary. Certain breeds may reserve their warmest affection solely for their owner, yet others are known to extend their ‘best friend’ status to anyone within their social circle.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A dog breed's capacity for enduring children's antics and its compatibility with family life vary. It's essential to oversee interactions between dogs and youngsters, especially with those not accustomed to canine behavior.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The inherent sociability of a breed with other canines. While supervision during interactions with other dogs is crucial certain breeds naturally tend to mesh well with their canine counterparts, whether at home or out in the community.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
Anticipate the amount of fluff and strands your particular breed will typically shed. High-shedding varieties will often demand more regular grooming carry a higher potential for activating specific allergies and will most likely necessitate more thorough and frequent vacuuming, as well as consistent use of lint rollers to keep your environment tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
Consider the grooming regimen of a breed, including the necessity for baths, brushing, haircuts or other forms of fur upkeep. Reflect on the amount of time, dedication, and financial resources you're prepared to allocate for such maintenance before committing to a breed. Keep in mind, regardless of the breed, regular nail clipping is essential for all dogs.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Take into account the likelihood that a breed will drool extensively. For those who cherish cleanliness and prefer to keep things tidy opting for a canine companion known to drape strands of drool over your arm or adorn your attire with large damp patches might not be the ideal match.
COAT TYPE +
Hairless
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
Consider a breed's typical demeanor towards unfamiliar faces. Certain breeds remain aloof or wary when around strangers no matter the setting, whereas other breeds consistently display enthusiasm about greeting a new person whenever the opportunity presents itself.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The eagerness a breed displays for playtime often continues well beyond their puppy stage. Many breeds remain keen on engaging in games like tug-of-war or fetch as adults, while others prefer a more laid-back approach content with lounging on the sofa alongside you.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have an instinctual knack to signal when unfamiliar faces are near. They're quick to respond to perceived dangers ranging from the postal worker's daily rounds to the presence of a squirrel on the other side of the glass. These dogs often grow fond of new people who come into their home, especially if they're welcomed by their owners.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change is an important trait to consider. This encompasses their ability to acclimate to different living environments, tolerate noise, adapt to new weather conditions and adjust to the ebb and flow of daily routines.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are crucial aspects to consider. Certain breeds have a natural inclination to please their owners and demonstrate a strong desire to learn, making training relatively straightforward. On the other hand, some breeds may exhibit a more independent nature preferring to do as they please, when and wherever they want. Evaluating a breed's temperament and trainability can help determine the level of effort required for successful training.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The level of physical and mental activity a dog breed demands can significantly vary. Breeds with a zest for life are in a constant state of readiness for the day's adventures filling their time with energetic play, such as running and jumping. Conversely, the more relaxed breeds embrace a leisurely lifestyle finding joy and contentment in lounging around and sleeping away.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency with which this dog breed expresses itself vocally can vary from barking to howling. Certain breeds may feel compelled to sound off at every stranger strolling by or even at birds fluttering near the window, while other breeds may reserve their barks for specific scenarios. Moreover, there are breeds that naturally don't bark but that doesn't mean they're silent, they have their own array of unique sounds to communicate their thoughts and feelings.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental engagement required for a dog breed to maintain its joy and wellness can significantly differ. Dogs that have been bred for specific tasks often come equipped with an inherent need for activities that challenge their intellect, such as making decisions, solving puzzles and focusing intently. If they aren’t provided with suitable opportunities for mental exertion, they’ll take the initiative to find their own ways to engage their minds. Unfortunately, the kinds of 'projects' they come up with may not exactly ALIGN WITH YOUR OWN PREFERENCES.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of friendliness a type of dog exhibits towards family and familiar faces can vary. Certain breeds may reserve their warmest affection solely for their owner, yet others are known to extend their ‘best friend’ status to anyone within their social circle.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A dog breed's capacity for enduring children's antics and its compatibility with family life vary. It's essential to oversee interactions between dogs and youngsters, especially with those not accustomed to canine behavior.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The inherent sociability of a breed with other canines. While supervision during interactions with other dogs is crucial certain breeds naturally tend to mesh well with their canine counterparts, whether at home or out in the community.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

Anticipate the amount of fluff and strands your particular breed will typically shed. High-shedding varieties will often demand more regular grooming carry a higher potential for activating specific allergies and will most likely necessitate more thorough and frequent vacuuming, as well as consistent use of lint rollers to keep your environment tidy.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

Consider the grooming regimen of a breed, including the necessity for baths, brushing, haircuts or other forms of fur upkeep. Reflect on the amount of time, dedication, and financial resources you're prepared to allocate for such maintenance before committing to a breed. Keep in mind, regardless of the breed, regular nail clipping is essential for all dogs.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Take into account the likelihood that a breed will drool extensively. For those who cherish cleanliness and prefer to keep things tidy opting for a canine companion known to drape strands of drool over your arm or adorn your attire with large damp patches might not be the ideal match.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Hairless

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

Consider a breed's typical demeanor towards unfamiliar faces. Certain breeds remain aloof or wary when around strangers no matter the setting, whereas other breeds consistently display enthusiasm about greeting a new person whenever the opportunity presents itself.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The eagerness a breed displays for playtime often continues well beyond their puppy stage. Many breeds remain keen on engaging in games like tug-of-war or fetch as adults, while others prefer a more laid-back approach content with lounging on the sofa alongside you.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have an instinctual knack to signal when unfamiliar faces are near. They're quick to respond to perceived dangers ranging from the postal worker's daily rounds to the presence of a squirrel on the other side of the glass. These dogs often grow fond of new people who come into their home, especially if they're welcomed by their owners.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to change is an important trait to consider. This encompasses their ability to acclimate to different living environments, tolerate noise, adapt to new weather conditions and adjust to the ebb and flow of daily routines.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are crucial aspects to consider. Certain breeds have a natural inclination to please their owners and demonstrate a strong desire to learn, making training relatively straightforward. On the other hand, some breeds may exhibit a more independent nature preferring to do as they please, when and wherever they want. Evaluating a breed's temperament and trainability can help determine the level of effort required for successful training.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The level of physical and mental activity a dog breed demands can significantly vary. Breeds with a zest for life are in a constant state of readiness for the day's adventures filling their time with energetic play, such as running and jumping. Conversely, the more relaxed breeds embrace a leisurely lifestyle finding joy and contentment in lounging around and sleeping away.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental engagement required for a dog breed to maintain its joy and wellness can significantly differ. Dogs that have been bred for specific tasks often come equipped with an inherent need for activities that challenge their intellect, such as making decisions, solving puzzles and focusing intently. If they aren’t provided with suitable opportunities for mental exertion, they’ll take the initiative to find their own ways to engage their minds. Unfortunately, the kinds of 'projects' they come up with may not exactly ALIGN WITH YOUR OWN PREFERENCES.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Gray	100
Bronze	060
Brindle	057
Dark Brown	078
Liver	123
Merle	131
Palomino	282
White	199
Red	140
White & Black	202
Black & White	019
Black White & Tan	034
Tan	195
Fawn	082
Slate	281
Sable	164

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
Tan Markings	012
White Markings	014
Spotted	021

About The Breed

The Xoloitzcuintli, heralding back to 3,000 years and once revered as the sacred canine of the Aztec deities, now cherishes its role as a devoted family pet and an alert guard dog. Known for its keen alertness and unwavering loyalty, the Xolo is available in three sizes and can be found with or without a fur coat.

With options of toy, miniature and standard sizing, the Xoloitzcuintli caters to diverse preferences presenting in both the unique hairless form and the coated variant. The hairless Xolo showcases a durable and smooth skin that fits snugly, while its coated counterpart boasts a short, sleek coat. Both types of Xolos are adorned in a palette of deep hues including black, gray-black, slate and extending to shades like red, liver or bronze. Displaying a wise and perceptive face, you can often see a Xolo's forehead crease with concentration. Don't be deceived by the Xolo's refined and statuesque build, it possesses a surprising level of strength and resilience.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A XOLOITZCUINTLI

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Xoloitzcunitli: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Xolos are known for their robust health, yet conscientious breeders will still perform health screenings on their breeding dogs to check for common issues such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and various eye conditions. To keep these dogs in top shape regular maintenance is key. This includes routine ear inspections to ward off any potential infections, as well as frequent dental care with dog-specific toothpaste. Additionally, routine veterinary appointments for comprehensive examinations and managing parasite prevention are essential measures to secure a lengthy and vigorous life for the Xolo. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Cardiac Exam

Grooming

	Coated Xolos are a breeze to groom with their short and low-maintenance coats needing just the occasional brush-down. Adult dogs keep it simple on the grooming front but younger Xolos might experience a bout of teenage acne necessitating some additional skin care during their youthful phase. Besides their weekly grooming routine, a sporadic bath will keep them spic and span and looking sharp. It's important to regularly clip their nails too, since nails that get too long can lead to discomfort for the dog. For the hairless variety, it's crucial to apply sunscreen to protect them during extended periods in the sun.

Exercise

	Xolos enjoy engaging in lengthy strolls and lively playtime sessions, yet they are renowned for their serene demeanor within the home. Puppies and younger dogs in particular have a need for ample exercise and organized play to maintain their health and happiness and to prevent them from becoming too mischievous.

Training

	Xolos thrive under a steady training program and flourish when they know their limits. It's crucial to kick off their training early on with puppy classes and socialization efforts laying the foundation for a sociable and well-behaved adult dog. These dogs take their duties as watchdogs to heart and tend to bark with purpose not profligacy, they’ll make a peep only when there's a good reason. Within the circle of their family and friends, Xolos are joyful and tender companions. For those suffering from allergies but still yearning for canine companionship, the hairless Xolo should definitely be a top contender on your list of suitable breeds.

Nutrition

	The Xoloitzcuintli will flourish on a diet of high-quality dog food, whether it's a commercial brand or a meal you prepare at home under the guidance and endorsement of your vet. It's essential to ensure that the food is suitable for the dog's stage in life, be it as a puppy, an adult or a senior. Keep an eye on your Xolo's caloric intake and weight since some dogs may be inclined to gain excess pounds. While treats are invaluable during training sessions, they should be dispensed sparingly to avoid the risk of obesity. It's also wise to educate yourself on which foods intended for human consumption are safe for your dog and which to avoid. If you're ever in doubt about your pet's weight or diet, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian. And remember, access to clean, fresh water is a must at all times for your Xolo.

Historiography

Xolos hold a revered status in Mexico, boasting an illustrious lineage that stretches back over 3,000 years. These 'peculiar hairless dogs' have been chronicled in the writings of Columbus and various European discoverers. The breed obtained its name from the ancient Aztecs, who revered the dog-headed deity Xolotl. In those times, Xolos were hallowed creatures; they were often laid to rest with their masters, believed to act as guardians guiding their owners' souls to the afterlife. Today, the legacy of the Xolo endures, with these noble dogs serving faithfully as both protectors and cherished family pets.