Ditch the purebred and designer dogs and make room for the rare Xoloitzcuintli or Xoloitzcuintle breed. The Mexican Hairless or Xoloitzcuintli breed was exhibited at the 2007 World Dog Show in Mexico City. Although accepted into the American Kennel Clubs (AKC) Foundation Stock Service for rare breeds, the Xoloitzcuintli or Xolo is gaining popularity around the world and is also designated as the official dog of Mexico. A standard size male Xoloitzcuintli, named Tizoc, finished in third place on Sunday May 27 at the 2007 World Dog Show in Mexico City, which was won by a Miniature Poodle from Japan. The Xolo accomplished this while competing against more than 300 breeds and 5,000 dogs at the World Dog Show. The Xolo is gaining in popularity and is eligible for most AKC activities and competitions with the exception of conformation testing.
The most distinctive features of the exotic-looking Xolo are its large bat-like ears and, of course, its hairless body. The Xolo’s athletic-looking body somewhat resembles a Manchester Terrier without fur. In reality, only about 75% of the breed is hairless, as you will usually find a Xolo pup in a litter of 4 or 5 with a short, dense coat. Aside from its exotic appearance, intelligence, and loyal nature, the other main reason for its popularity is the fact that it is classified as a hypoallergenic dog breed. The hairless variety is a dog that does not shed and a well-groomed variety is a dog that sheds little. Both Xolo varieties are likely to make good pets for people who suffer from dog allergies. The Xolo actually comes in three sizes. The toy variety makes a good companion dog and typically stands between 9 and 14 inches tall at shoulder height and slightly larger than a Chihuahua. The miniature variety is usually 14 to 18 inches tall and about the size of a Beagle. The standard variety ranges from 18 to 23 inches at shoulder height and is about the size of a Labrador Retriever.
The Xolo is one of the oldest and rarest breeds in the world. Statues and effigies dating back more than 3,000 years have been found in Mayan tombs. The xolos were valued for their loyalty, companionship, and intelligence, as well as for their healing and mystical powers. The remains of Xolos have been found in Aztec cemeteries where they were supposed to guide souls to a happy life in the afterlife. There was a time when xolos were prevalent throughout Mexico, Central America, and South America. Xolo numbers dwindled over time and the breed nearly became extinct by the 1940s, but isolated indigenous tribes in remote parts of Mexico and South America kept it alive. Fortunately, Mexican breeders worked hard to re-establish the breed by searching remote towns and outposts for the dogs. Their diligent work paid off and a breeding program was established and the breed was registered in Mexico in 1955. The breed has also been registered by the Canadian Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club and is now designated as the official dog of Mexico.
Potential show-quality Xolos are priced above $2,500, and after the recent results of the 2007 World Dog Show, are likely to become even more popular. Prospective buyers should recognize that standard-sized Xolos need plenty of exercise, discipline, and attention when they are young. Mature Xolos require much less exercise. This is not a dog you can keep in a kennel in your backyard. Xolos must become an integral part of your household and require a lot of socialization and firm handling or they will end up running your home. The Xolo is an extremely intelligent dog and can be trained to excel in obedience and agility competitions, as well as making a good watchdog and therapy dog. Toy Xolos are good companion dogs. The Xolo’s fur is quite tough and requires minimal care. Bathing too much will strip away natural oils, and too much sunscreen will clog pores and cause acne. However, the hairless variety must be protected from extreme heat and cold. The Xolo is an exceptionally healthy breed and can be expected to live between 16 and 20 years of age.
Additional information on the Mexican Hairless or Xolo breed can be found at [http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/Breeds/Xolo.html]