We are currently involved only with Xoloitzcuintle in terms of breeding, therefore this page is to present this mesmerising ancient breed.
Breed standards
History
Contrary to what people may think due to their unusual appearance, Xoloitzcuintle is not a man-made "designer creature". In fact, it is the oldest breed in the world, going back cca. 3500 years BC to the world of the Aztecs (Central America). The Aztecs believed these dogs have got healing powers due to their warmth. They placed the dogs close to the ill, which makes Xolos the first therapy dogs. Bigger dogs were used for guarding and hunting and smaller dogs for companionship and as watchdogs. Sometimes they were sacrificed in rituals or on special occasions used as food. They were often buried together with their masters as it was believed they were guiding the soul into the heaven, called the underworld. The first Xolos arrived to Europe through Iberian ports in the 16th century when the trade started with the New World.
Many Xolos still live in the wild nowadays, in Mexican jungles or close to the towns and villages as free roaming dogs. They were developed through natural selection, making them one of the most robust breeds. This is why genetic health issues are rare.
Many Xolos still live in the wild nowadays, in Mexican jungles or close to the towns and villages as free roaming dogs. They were developed through natural selection, making them one of the most robust breeds. This is why genetic health issues are rare.
Living with a Xolo
Xolos are different than any other breed. Extremely loyal, intelligent, affectionate, cautious.
They know who their people are and despite getting most attached to and respecting one family member the most, they accept even a wider family unit, enjoy their affection (sometimes on Xolo's term), share the sofa with them or exercise together.
They are very loving and affectionate and they like to snuggle right next to you, ideally under your duvet or a blanket. Once there, they become 10x heavier and it's very hard to move them. We are still not sure how that is possible, it's like they are pulling their muscles down with all the power they've got. Because they are so warm, they are like hot water bottle so quite handy in the winter and no so much in the summer:) They don't care if you are hot, they love you and want to be close to you. If you let them, they will most happily share the bed with you but they are ok with a nice comfy bed of their own too. Not too far away from you, though!
Because they love you so much, they don't want to be away from you. They need to be taught that being on their own for short periods of time is not the end of the world and you will always come back. But only gradually once they are ready, otherwise it can result in separation anxiety. Sharing life with another four-legged companion (ideally an older and stable role model) can help.
They thrive the most in calm, quiet households as their highly instinctual nature makes them react to any sort of tension. But this can work in a positive way - the Xolo's family can learn to resolve disagreements in a calm manner in order to not upset their sensitive four-legged family member.
With careful introduction, ideally while still young, Xolos can learn to live with children and be their faithful companions in playful adventures or as warm cuddle buddies. However, it is of utmost importance to teach the children to respect the Xolo when they don't want interaction and give them space to back away if they want to. Young children and Xolos have to be under supervision at all times. Xolos should have a safe space, such as a crate, that is off limits for the child.
Xolos are very intelligent. They are always one step ahead of you, so don't even try to fool them. You've got to be honest with them, fair and consistent. Decide on the rules before you bring a puppy home and stick to them. They will try to push you but if you are determined, they will learn where the barriers are.
Xolos need lots of exercise to burn out excessive energy. Ideally that's a free run off the lead for at least an hour daily (or 2 x 30 min). If we work on their recall appropriately since we bring the puppy home and show them it's fun to be around us, they can be trusted to be off the lead. They are also excellent running and hiking companions. They are extremely fast and agile and can excel at agility, lure coursing or other dog sports. However, we don't recommend doing these at a competitive level, as they encourage high frustration and reactivity. Working through the obstacles together occasionally can increase trust between you and your Xolo.
They are probably the best canine climbers who can get out of their puppy pen in no time.
They know who their people are and despite getting most attached to and respecting one family member the most, they accept even a wider family unit, enjoy their affection (sometimes on Xolo's term), share the sofa with them or exercise together.
They are very loving and affectionate and they like to snuggle right next to you, ideally under your duvet or a blanket. Once there, they become 10x heavier and it's very hard to move them. We are still not sure how that is possible, it's like they are pulling their muscles down with all the power they've got. Because they are so warm, they are like hot water bottle so quite handy in the winter and no so much in the summer:) They don't care if you are hot, they love you and want to be close to you. If you let them, they will most happily share the bed with you but they are ok with a nice comfy bed of their own too. Not too far away from you, though!
Because they love you so much, they don't want to be away from you. They need to be taught that being on their own for short periods of time is not the end of the world and you will always come back. But only gradually once they are ready, otherwise it can result in separation anxiety. Sharing life with another four-legged companion (ideally an older and stable role model) can help.
They thrive the most in calm, quiet households as their highly instinctual nature makes them react to any sort of tension. But this can work in a positive way - the Xolo's family can learn to resolve disagreements in a calm manner in order to not upset their sensitive four-legged family member.
With careful introduction, ideally while still young, Xolos can learn to live with children and be their faithful companions in playful adventures or as warm cuddle buddies. However, it is of utmost importance to teach the children to respect the Xolo when they don't want interaction and give them space to back away if they want to. Young children and Xolos have to be under supervision at all times. Xolos should have a safe space, such as a crate, that is off limits for the child.
Xolos are very intelligent. They are always one step ahead of you, so don't even try to fool them. You've got to be honest with them, fair and consistent. Decide on the rules before you bring a puppy home and stick to them. They will try to push you but if you are determined, they will learn where the barriers are.
Xolos need lots of exercise to burn out excessive energy. Ideally that's a free run off the lead for at least an hour daily (or 2 x 30 min). If we work on their recall appropriately since we bring the puppy home and show them it's fun to be around us, they can be trusted to be off the lead. They are also excellent running and hiking companions. They are extremely fast and agile and can excel at agility, lure coursing or other dog sports. However, we don't recommend doing these at a competitive level, as they encourage high frustration and reactivity. Working through the obstacles together occasionally can increase trust between you and your Xolo.
They are probably the best canine climbers who can get out of their puppy pen in no time.
Care
The Xolo is relatively easy to care for. The hairless variety requires weekly (or at least 2x/month) baths to keep them clean. This is quick as they don't require a blow-dry, a towel dry will do the job. Twice a year, when they are exfoliating, you should follow a peeling regime. After a bath you should apply oil to their skin for keeping it moisturised. Pure, 100% natural oils are best. You can also use these to protect them from sun. If out for longer periods of time without access to shaded areas, we recommend putting on a light T-shirt. In winter they will be thankful for wearing warm clothing or raincoats in rain - but this depends on each individual dog as some are more robust than the others. We also recommend teeth brushing daily to prevent tartar buildup.
Coated Xolos should be brushed occasionally and bathed as required.
Coated Xolos should be brushed occasionally and bathed as required.
The Coated Xolo
Please see some wonderful examples of the coated Xolo below. All photos posted with permission. We thank everyone for giving us the opportunity to share them and raise awareness of the coated Xolo.