Have you met the Xolo?

Ancient breed…

The Xoloitzcuintli (or Xolo) might be considered a humble hairless dog but this breed has some stately class being owned and revered by the ancient Mexican Aztecs. The breed is close to 3000 years old and the way to pronounce Xoloitzcuintli is to say show-low-eats-queent-lee. ‘Simples’ as a meerkat would say.  This Atzec of the underworld was seen as a healer, and used for hunting and guarding as well as bed warming.  The breed has not changed much in all this time.

The Xolo can be a toy, miniature or standard size and their physique is rather strong even though their shape is elegant. This dog can sometimes be described as looking ‘deep in thought’ when his forehead is wrinkled. Their sleek body, almond shaped eyes and bat-shaped ears have been compared to the Pharaoh hound. Contrary to popular belief, Xolos are not Chinese Crested dogs.

The hairless Xolo is not always entirely void of hair. Most sport a few tufts. The coated variety has a very short flat coat. Xolo’s come in black, bronze, brindle, brown, slate, red, liver, white or copper.  Either way, they are definitely not suited to colder weather.

Whilst Xolo’s are calm and devoted, they are also nimble and love to chase.   Their remarkable feet are capable of gripping toys with much dexterity.  They can make good pets and like all dogs they require leadership and supervision.

Xolos first arrived in Australia in 2009 and are still a rare sight today.  It is thought they may have been introduced to Europe with the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Whether their appearance makes you think ‘stately’, ‘scary’ or ‘superpowers’, they will certainly steal your attention.

If you’d like to see the Xolo in action and find out about them first hand from an owner check out the following link…

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)