Xoloitzcuintle (Intermediate)
The Good
- Excellent watchdog instincts
- Tolerant with children
- Gets along well with other pets
- Minimal shedding (especially hairless variety)
The Real
- Can be stubborn during training
- Cannot live in outdoor kennels
- Hairless dogs require special skin care
- Struggles with being left alone
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eets-queent-lee"), or Xolo for short, is one of the world's most ancient and distinctive breeds. These remarkable dogs come in both hairless and coated varieties, with the hairless being the more common and sought-after type. What makes them truly special isn't just their unique appearance, but their calm, intelligent nature that's been refined over thousands of years.
In Australian homes, Xolos adapt well to our varied climate, though they'll need protection from both sun and cold depending on your location. Their naturally tranquil temperament makes them excellent apartment companions in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, while their alertness ensures they'll let you know about any visitors. The hairless variety is particularly appealing to Australian families dealing with allergies, as they produce minimal dander.
These dogs form incredibly strong bonds with their families and take their role as companion and guardian seriously. They're naturally reserved with strangers but absolutely devoted to their people. If you're looking for a dog that's both ancient and modern, calm yet alert, the Xolo might just be your perfect match. Just be prepared for the curious looks and questions when you're out and about - they're definitely conversation starters!
History
History
The Xoloitzcuintli boasts one of the most fascinating histories in the dog world, stretching back over 3,000 years. These extraordinary dogs were considered sacred by the Aztecs, who named them after their god Xolotl - the deity of fire, lightning, and guide to the underworld. Ancient Aztec beliefs held that Xolos would guide their owners' souls through the afterlife, making them so revered that they were often buried alongside their deceased masters.
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Americas, they were horrified by local customs and systematically destroyed much of Aztec civilization, including these sacred dogs. By the 19th century, the breed had nearly vanished completely. It wasn't until the 1950s that breed historian Norman Pelham Wright and a dedicated group of enthusiasts began the painstaking work of restoration.
The recovery mission was extraordinary - Wright and his team ventured into remote areas of Mexico and managed to find just 10 dogs of aboriginal type to rebuild the entire breed. From this tiny foundation, they carefully developed the modern Xolo population. Remarkably, a Xolo named "Mee Too" was actually one of the first dogs registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) back in 1887, though the breed was later removed from the registry in 1959 due to low numbers before being reinstated in the 2000s. Today, the Xolo is Mexico's national dog and a living treasure that connects us to ancient civilizations.
Traits & Characteristics
Xoloitzcuintle (Intermediate) characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Xolos are generally robust dogs with fewer health issues than many modern breeds, thanks to their natural development over millennia. Their lifespan of 13-18 years is impressive, and responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), and eye disorders. In Australia's varied climate, you'll want to be particularly mindful of their skin needs.
The hairless variety requires special attention to prevent skin problems. Young Xolos often develop acne on their lips and muzzle during adolescence, which can be managed with proper skincare routines and veterinary guidance when needed. Australian owners should invest in quality dog sunscreen for those sunny days at the beach or in the backyard - their exposed skin can burn just like ours.
Temperature sensitivity is another consideration. While they handle Australia's warm weather reasonably well, they'll need coats during cooler months, especially in Melbourne or Canberra winters. Their unique skin is actually quite tough and provides natural protection against insects, though they still need regular parasite prevention.
Weight management is crucial as Xolos love their food and can easily become overweight. Australian pet insurance can be valuable given potential costs for skin treatments or orthopedic issues. Regular vet checkups, proper dental care, and maintaining a healthy weight will help ensure your Xolo enjoys their full lifespan as a happy, healthy companion.
Feeding your Xolo properly is straightforward once you understand their needs and tendency to overeat. These dogs have healthy appetites and will happily consume more than they should if given the chance, so measured meals on a schedule are essential. Australian dog food brands that meet nutritional standards work perfectly well for Xolos.
Puppies need three meals daily until they're about a year old, then you can transition to twice-daily feeding for adults. The amount varies significantly between the different sizes - a miniature Xolo obviously needs much less than a standard-sized one. Always follow the feeding guidelines on your chosen dog food package, but remember these are starting points. Your vet can help fine-tune portions based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
If your Xolo gobbles their food too quickly (a common trait), consider using a slow-feeder bowl to prevent digestive upset. Fresh water should always be available, especially important during Australia's hot summers.
Quality commercial dog food eliminates the guesswork around nutritional balance, though some owners prefer preparing fresh meals under veterinary guidance. Either approach works well, but avoid table scraps and treats that add unnecessary calories. Training treats should be small and factored into their daily calorie count. With their love of food, establishing good eating habits early will help prevent obesity-related health problems down the track.
Grooming requirements vary dramatically between the hairless and coated varieties of Xolo. The hairless dogs need regular skin care but virtually no brushing, while coated Xolos require occasional brushing but less skin maintenance. Both varieties are relatively low-maintenance compared to many breeds.
For hairless Xolos, think of skincare similar to your own routine. Weekly baths with gentle dog shampoo keep their skin clean and healthy. Between baths, wipe them down with a damp cloth, especially after outdoor adventures. Australian owners should invest in quality dog-safe moisturizers and sunscreen - essential for our harsh UV conditions. Never use human sunscreen as it can be toxic to dogs.
Young hairless Xolos may develop acne, requiring special medicated shampoos or treatments from your vet. Some dogs develop blackheads or small bumps that need gentle care to prevent scarring. The good news? Their skin typically becomes less problematic with age.
Coated Xolos need brushing once or twice weekly with a simple bristle brush. They shed minimally year-round. Both varieties need regular nail trims, ear cleaning after baths, and dental care. Check ears weekly for signs of infection, especially important in Australia's humid coastal areas.
The beauty of Xolos is their cleanliness - they don't develop that typical "doggy odor" that many breeds have. This makes them excellent choices for Australian families who want a clean, low-maintenance companion that won't leave hair all over the furniture.
Xolos are intelligent dogs that respond well to consistent, positive training methods. They need about 20 minutes of exercise daily, making them perfect for Australian urban living where a good walk around the neighbourhood or a play session in the local park meets their needs beautifully.
These dogs are naturally reserved and can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is crucial. Take your Xolo puppy to busy places like weekend markets, dog-friendly cafes, and local parks to help them become confident, well-adjusted adults. Their natural watchdog instincts mean they'll bark to alert you of visitors, but they're not excessive barkers when properly trained.
Training requires patience and consistency as Xolos can be somewhat stubborn. They're smart enough to learn quickly but independent enough to test boundaries. Positive reinforcement works best - harsh corrections will likely backfire with this sensitive breed. They form strong bonds with one family member in particular, and this person often has the most success with training.
Their high prey drive means reliable recall training is essential, and they should always be on-lead or in securely fenced areas. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities like agility or obedience that can provide mental stimulation for these intelligent dogs. Remember, they don't reach emotional maturity until around two years old, so patience during adolescence will pay off with a wonderfully trained adult dog who's both a loyal companion and effective guardian.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Xolo owner is someone seeking a loyal, intelligent companion who appreciates the breed's unique qualities and ancient heritage. These dogs thrive with owners who understand they're getting a thinking dog that needs mental engagement alongside physical exercise. They're excellent for Australian families who want an alert watchdog that won't be overly aggressive with visitors.
Xolos suit both singles and families, but they do best with consistent, confident leadership. They're not the right choice for first-time dog owners who might struggle with their occasional stubbornness or sensitivity. Ideal owners are home regularly, as these dogs don't handle long periods alone well - they genuinely crave human companionship.
They work well for Australian retirees who want a medium-energy companion for daily walks, or active families who can include them in weekend adventures. Their apartment-friendly nature makes them perfect for city living in Sydney or Melbourne, while their alertness suits suburban homes where they can patrol their territory.
The hairless variety particularly appeals to people with allergies or those who prefer minimal shedding. However, potential owners must be prepared for the skincare commitment and the attention these unusual-looking dogs attract in public. You'll need to invest in appropriate clothing for cooler weather and be prepared to educate curious strangers about the breed. If you want a dog that's both ancient and modern, calm yet alert, and totally devoted to your family, a Xolo could be your perfect match.
Interesting facts about the Xoloitzcuintle (Intermediate)
Interesting Fact
The Xoloitzcuintli is Mexico's national dog and considered one of the world's oldest and most ancient breeds, existing for over 5,000 years
Chinito Jr
became the breed's first AKC champion on October 19, 1940, and remained the only champion for nearly 20 years.
Interesting Fact
The breed comes in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) and two varieties (hairless and coated)
Interesting Fact
Famous Mexican artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kalo were passionate Xolo breeders and featured the dogs in many of their paintings
FAQ
Yes, well-trained and socialized Xolos make excellent family pets! They're particularly good for active Australian families who can provide at least 20 minutes of daily exercise. They're patient with children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs, though supervision is always recommended.
Expect to pay between $2,000-$4,000 for a Xolo puppy from a reputable breeder. Show-quality dogs or rare miniature varieties can cost significantly more. Always research breeders thoroughly and ensure health testing has been done on the parents.
While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, hairless Xolos can be suitable for some people with allergies since they produce minimal dander. However, spend time with the breed first to see how your allergies react before committing to ownership.
Yes, hairless Xolos need sun protection during our harsh summers and warm clothing during cooler months, especially in southern states. They handle moderate temperatures well but need help with extremes - think dog sunscreen for beach days and coats for Melbourne winters.
Xolos are relatively low-energy dogs requiring about 20 minutes of daily exercise. A good walk around the neighbourhood, play session in the backyard, or trip to the local dog park usually meets their needs perfectly.
Absolutely! Their calm nature and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment dogs for Australian city living. They're naturally clean and don't have strong doggy odors, plus the hairless variety doesn't shed on furniture.
Xolos are alert watchdogs who will bark to announce visitors, but they're not excessive barkers. They're quite discerning about when to use their voice, making them suitable for suburban Australian neighbourhoods when properly trained.