Xoloitzcuintli
Quick Summary
Unique ancient breed combining loyalty with independence. Ideal for owners seeking distinctive companion. Main considerations include skin care and moderate exercise requirements.
Contents
Weight Range
10-55 lbs
♂ Male: 28-60 lbs
♀ Female: 28-60 lbs
Height Range
25-58 inches
♂ Male: 19-25"
♀ Female: 19-25"
Life Expectancy
13-18 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Sacred companion to ancient Aztecs in Mexico, dating back over 3000 years
Popularity
#140
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 19"-25" |
| Female Height | 19"-25" |
| Male Weight | 28-60 lbs |
| Female Weight | 28-60 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase ($2000-$4000), supplies, and medical checks. Monthly expenses cover quality food, skin care products, and routine veterinary care. Consider costs for dental maintenance.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and attentive with calm, dignified demeanor. Moderate energy level requires regular exercise. Shows loyalty to family while maintaining some independence. Makes excellent watchdog with natural protective instincts.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed requiring regular human companionship. Generally good with other dogs but can be reserved. Tolerates alone time well with proper training and exercise.
Breed Overview
Majestic and ancient, the Xoloitzcuintli features distinctive hairless skin or a short coat, with an elegant and athletic build. Their alert, intelligent expression and graceful movement reflect their noble Mexican heritage. Standing 10-23 inches tall with lean muscling, they display remarkable physical diversity across three size varieties while maintaining their characteristic dignified demeanor.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Minimal shedding
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Highly adaptable
Cons
- ✗ Sensitive skin requires care
- ✗ Needs sun protection
- ✗ Can be aloof with strangers
- ✗ Temperature sensitive
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Loyal, Alert, Calm |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate intensity level with bursts of energetic play. Enjoys agility and tracking activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Feed 2-3 meals daily totaling 1-3 cups of high-quality food based on size variety. Requires balanced nutrition with attention to skin health. Consider supplements for hairless variety.
Feed high-quality protein-rich diet divided into 2-3 daily meals. Amount varies by size variety: toy (3/4-1 cup), miniature (1-1.5 cups), standard (2-3 cups). Consider skin-supporting supplements.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal in moderate climates with indoor comfort. Requires protected outdoor spaces due to sensitive skin.
Adapts well to various living situations with minimum space of 500 square feet. Ideal setting includes secure outdoor area. Shows good adaptability to both urban and suburban environments.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Revered by ancient Aztecs as sacred healers and spiritual guardians, these dogs were believed to guide souls through the underworld. Named after the Aztec god Xolotl and the Nahuatl word for dog, itzcuintli.
Historical Purpose
Sacred companion to ancient Aztecs in Mexico, dating back over 3000 years. Served as spiritual guardian and healing dog, valued for therapeutic warmth.
Fun Fact
Ancient Aztecs believed Xolos had healing powers and could ward off evil spirits and intruders.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires sun protection for hairless variety. Regular skin care essential. Moderate exercise needs must be met. Temperature sensitivity requires indoor climate control.