Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli, commonly known as the Xolo or Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds in the world, with a history in Mexico and Central America that spans an extraordinary period of several thousand years. The breed's name derives from the Aztec deity Xolotl, the dog-headed god of lightning and death who was believed to guide the souls of the dead through the underworld, and itzcuintli, the Aztec word for dog. Dogs of the Xolo type were kept as sacred animals by the Aztecs and other pre-Columbian civilisations, used in religious ceremonies and believed to possess healing powers when their warm, hairless skin was placed against aching joints and bodies. Archaeological evidence places hairless dogs in Mexico as far back as 3,500 years. The breed came close to extinction after the Spanish conquest but survived in remote areas of Mexico and Central America and has been formally preserved and promoted since the twentieth century. The Xoloitzcuintli is registered by the Kennel Club in the Utility Group and comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard.

The Xoloitzcuintli presents in two forms within each size - hairless and coated. The hairless variety is the more commonly known, with smooth, tough skin that is warm to the touch and completely or largely free of hair. The coated variety has a short, flat, close coat. Both forms can appear in the same litter. The skin colour ranges through black, slate, grey, bronze, brindle and various combinations. The head is broad and strong, the ears large and upright, and the overall expression is calm, alert and intelligent. Toy adults stand 25 to 35 centimetres and weigh 4 to 7 kilograms; Miniature adults stand 35 to 45 centimetres and weigh 7 to 14 kilograms; Standard adults stand 45 to 60 centimetres and weigh 14 to 23 kilograms.

The character is calm, loyal and observant - a breed of ancient lineage and considerable dignity that forms deep bonds with its own family while remaining reserved and watchful with unfamiliar people. The Xolo is not typically demonstratively sociable with strangers and early and thorough socialisation is important to prevent excessive wariness. Within its own household the breed is gentle, devoted and calm, good with children and other animals when properly introduced.

The practical requirements of hairless ownership are specific and must be understood before purchase. The skin of the hairless Xolo requires moisturising, protection from cold temperatures with appropriate clothing, and sunscreen or shade in direct summer sun. These are not burdens but simply aspects of responsible hairless breed ownership.

Health is generally good. Dental issues in the hairless variety are common due to the partial tooth absence that accompanies the hairless gene, and regular dental care is essential.

Purchase prices from KC-registered breeders range from £1,000 to £2,500. Monthly running costs average £60 to £140. The Xoloitzcuintli Club UK is the primary resource for breed information, responsible breeders and any available rescue contacts.

Calm, loyal and alert. Devoted to family. Reserved with strangers. Good with children and other animals when well socialised. Not typically aggressive but can be aloof.

Intelligent and responsive to gentle, positive methods. Sensitive breed that does not respond to harsh handling. Early socialisation is critical to prevent excessive wariness with strangers.

30-60 minutes daily depending on size. Moderate exercise requirements. Enjoys companionship and calm activity. Protect from cold weather and harsh sun - sunscreen required in summer.

Generally healthy. Dental issues in the hairless variety are common - regular dental care essential. Skin care is a lifetime commitment. Hip Dysplasia testing of larger individuals advisable.

Complete dry kibble twice daily. Feeding amounts vary significantly by size - Toy adults from 80g, Standard adults up to 350g daily. Monitor weight carefully across all three sizes.

Hairless variety requires skin moisturising, sunscreen in summer and protection from cold in winter. Coated variety has a short flat coat needing minimal care. Occasional baths and nail care.

Purchase price £1,000-£2,500 from KC-registered breeders. Monthly costs £60-£140 depending on size. Sunscreen and protective clothing are ongoing costs for hairless individuals.

Experienced dog owners, owners who research the breed thoroughly. Adaptable to various living situations. Needs protection from cold and sun. Not suited to very cold outdoor environments.