Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as: Xolo, Mexican Hairless Dog
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
10-55 lbs
Height (Male)
10-23 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Xoloitzcuintli is one of the world's oldest and rarest breeds, dating back over 3,000 years to ancient Mexico. Sacred to the Aztecs, these hairless dogs are calm, loyal, and deeply devoted companions.
History
One of the oldest breeds in the Americas, dating back over 3,000 years. Sacred to the Aztecs, who believed they guided souls to the underworld. Come in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. Both hairless and coated varieties. AKC recognized in 2011.
Appearance
An elegant, athletic dog with smooth skin (hairless variety) or a short, flat coat. Come in three sizes. Broad skull, almond-shaped eyes, and large bat-like ears. Sleek, well-muscled body. May have a mohawk-like tuft on the head.
Temperament
Calm, loyal, and attentive. Xolos are primitive dogs with a serene dignity. They form intense bonds with their families and are excellent watchdogs. Calm and composed.
Personality Around Others
Deeply loyal to family. Reserved with strangers. Excellent watchdog. Calm and dignified. Can be one-family dogs.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks. Not hyperactive. Enjoy outdoor activities at moderate pace.
Training
Intelligent and responsive. Positive reinforcement. Early socialization essential. Can be sensitive.
Grooming
Hairless: sunscreen, moisturizer, regular baths. Coated: minimal grooming. Dental care for hairless variety.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Hairless variety may have missing teeth and skin sensitivities. Coated variety has fewer issues. Generally healthy.
Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac Exam
- Patellar Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$500-$1,200
Nutrition
Quality food appropriate to size variety. Two meals daily. Dental-friendly food for hairless.
Living Environment
Adaptable to apartments. Indoor dogs. Need sun protection. Climate-controlled environments.
Ideal Family
Experienced owners who appreciate primitive breeds. Those committed to skin care (hairless). Dog lovers wanting a unique companion.
Intelligence
Intelligent and perceptive. Primitive intelligence. They learn through observation and bonding.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Generally quiet but excellent alert dogs. Will bark at unusual situations.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Hairless variety has no shedding. Coated variety sheds minimally.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
Over 3,000 years old—one of the oldest breeds in the Americas
Sacred to the Aztecs, who believed they guided souls through the underworld
Come in three sizes: Toy (10-14"), Miniature (14-18"), and Standard (18-23")
Featured in the Pixar movie Coco as the character Dante
Their body temperature feels warmer to the touch, leading to ancient beliefs about healing powers
Famous Dogs
Dante
The Xolo character in Disney/Pixar's Coco (2017) who guides Miguel through the Land of the Dead
Frida Kahlo's Xolos
The artist Frida Kahlo kept Xolos and featured them in her artwork
Common Myths
"They're hot to the touch"
Their skin feels warmer because there's no fur insulation, but their body temperature is the same as other dogs
"They have healing powers"
Ancient Aztecs believed this, but it's due to their warm skin being comforting against sore muscles
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they need sunscreen?
Yes—hairless Xolos need dog-safe sunscreen when outdoors. Their exposed skin is prone to sunburn.
Are they related to Chinese Cresteds?
No—despite both being hairless, they developed independently on different continents over thousands of years.
Puppy Guide
Xolo puppies need early socialization. Hairless puppies need skin care routine. They bond deeply.
Senior Care
Senior Xolos are calm and devoted. Skin care continues. Moderate exercise. Dental care for hairless.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$14,000-$22,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Ancient heritage
Non-shedding
Calm and loyal
Excellent watchdog
Very long lifespan
Cons
Needs skin care
Rare and expensive
Needs sun protection
Reserved with strangers
Needs warmth