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Mexican hairless dog

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog mexican hairless dog!

Here, you will find all the useful information about mexican hairless dog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

Considered a sacred dog for decades, it is believed to have divine powers and is even considered to be the earthly representative of the god Xotlotl. According to Mexican beliefs, the Mexican Naked Dog was considered to be the one who led the souls of the deceased during their passage to the other world. At the time, it was unfortunately sacrificed during funerals, and in some Mexican states we find statues with their effigies near ancient tombs.

According to history, it would have been imported from Asia by nomadic populations, probably one of the direct descendants of the Chinese crested dog, however archaeological discoveries of Xoloitzcuintle bones, have demonstrated their presence since 1300 BC.

This breed, too often sacrificed for its meat or religious beliefs, was on the verge of extinction in the middle of the 20th Century, but the British diplomat Norman Pelham Wright, supported by the Kennel Club of Mexico, succeeded in saving this unique dog. It was finally registered by the FCI on June 6, 1961 and the last update of the official standard in force was published on October 8, 2012.

This well-proportioned breed has a deep chest that reaches down to the elbows, arched ribs and a well tucked up belly. The topline is perfectly straight and level, slightly rounded at the loins, the back is short, strong and firm. This fragile-looking dog is built strong, his long ears are elegant, their triangular shape reminding us of a bat. His tail is tapered and long, we can find on some subjects very small amounts of hair on the forehead, the nape of the neck and the tip of the tail.

The head is wedge-shaped, seen from above the skull is broad, but retains a certain elegance as it tapers towards the muzzle, the stop is faint, but clear. The eyes are of medium size, almond shaped, with a lively and very intelligent expression, always dark in colour. Solid colours are preferred, the shades vary from black, blackish grey, slate grey, dark grey, to reddish, liver, bronze and blond.

Relatively good guardians, but never aggressive, the Mexican Hairless is an intelligent and calm animal, its character is perfectly adapted to indoor life. Its independent temperament will sometimes push it to distance itself from its family, however, it will appreciate very much the moments of sharing, the cuddles or the walks outside in company of its owners.

Socialisation is an important part of his education, it is necessary in view of their distrustful and sometimes fearful character towards strangers, an awareness of community life should be set up from an early age. Once the Xoloitzcuintle has gained confidence, it will show itself to be welcoming and gentle. Its sensitivity will make it an endearing companion that will please the whole family, from the oldest to the youngest.

Adult: The Mexican Hairless will weigh approximately 4 to 9 kg (9 to 20 lbs), with a height of approximately 25 to 60 cm (10" to 24"). There are three distinct sizes in the Xolotzcuintle breed:

- The Toy which will measure between 25 and 35 cm (10" to 14") for a weight of about 6 to 10 kg (13 to 22 lbs).
- The Miniature which will measure between 36 and 45 cm (14" to 17,5") for a weight of approximately 10 to 16 kg (22 to 35 lbs)
- The Standard which will measure between 46 and 60 cm (18" to 23,5") for a weight of approximately 16 to 24 kg (35 to 53 lbs)

Origins

The Mexican Hairless Dog, also known as Xoloitzcuintli, is an ancient breed originating from Mexico. Its history dates back over 3000 years, where it was revered by the Aztec and Mayan peoples. The name "Xoloitzcuintli" comes from the Aztec god Xolotl and the Nahuatl word "itzcuintli" meaning dog. These dogs were not only loyal companions, but also considered spiritual guides in the afterlife and were often buried with their owners to accompany them in the afterlife.

History

The history of the Mexican Hairless Dog is rich and fascinating. Used by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations for hunting, guarding, and even religious ceremonies, these dogs were also known for their medicinal qualities. The Aztecs believed that their body heat helped relieve joint pain. The breed survived the Spanish colonization and was rediscovered in the 20th century by enthusiasts who worked to preserve this national treasure. In 1956, the International Canine Federation (FCI) officially recognized the breed.

Standard

The standard of the Mexican Hairless Dog breed describes an elegant and well-proportioned dog, available in three sizes: standard, intermediate, and miniature. Standard males measure between 46 and 60 cm, while females measure between 44 and 58 cm. Intermediate and miniature varieties are smaller. The skin is smooth and can be of different colors, ranging from black to dark gray, brown, red, liver, or bronze. The ears are large and upright, and the almond-shaped eyes can be various shades of brown.

Physical characteristics

The Mexican Hairless Dog is easily recognizable by its lack of hair, although there is a short-haired variety. Its skin is soft and warm to the touch, often described as resembling that of humans. The skin color varies from black to gray, brown, and speckled pink. Their body is athletic and well-muscled, with long and elegant legs. The ears are large, erect, and bat-shaped, while the almond-shaped eyes, often dark in color, give an attentive and intelligent expression.

Character

The Mexican Hairless Dog is known for its loyal, affectionate, and intelligent nature. They are very attached to their family and enjoy spending time with their owners. Although they may be reserved with strangers, they are not aggressive. Their alert nature makes them excellent guard dogs. They are also known for their calm demeanor and ability to adapt to different situations. Due to their intelligence, they require regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Life expectancy

The Mexican Hairless Dog's life expectancy is usually 12 to 15 years, which is relatively long for a dog of this size. This longevity is attributed to their robustness and overall good health. To maximize their lifespan, it is essential to provide them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Special attention to the specific needs of the breed, such as protecting their sensitive skin from external aggressions, can also extend their lifespan, ensuring a long and healthy life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Mexican Hairless Dog is an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy daily walks, interactive games, and free running sessions in secure spaces. Although they are active, they also adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive enough physical and mental stimulation. Their intelligence and natural curiosity can be satisfied with training games, interactive toys, and canine sports such as agility.

Recommended diet

A balanced diet is essential for the Mexican Hairless Dog. They require food rich in proteins to support their muscles and energy. High-quality kibbles, specially formulated for active breeds, are ideal. Supplementing their diet with lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains can be beneficial. Portions should be adjusted to their weight and activity level to prevent obesity. Fresh water should always be available, especially after intense exercise to prevent dehydration.

Training and obedience

The Mexican Hairless Dog is intelligent and learns quickly, which makes training and obedience easier. Using positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, is crucial to maintain their interest and motivation. Early socialization is essential to get them used to different people, animals, and environments, reducing any tendency towards shyness or reserve. Short but regular training sessions are ideal to avoid boredom and ensure a balanced and well-adjusted behavior.

Behavior with children

The Mexican Hairless Dog is generally good with children, especially if socialized with them from a young age. It is affectionate, patient, and protective towards family members, including younger ones. However, due to its sensitive skin, it is important to teach children to interact with it gently and respectfully to avoid any accidental injuries. Supervision during play is recommended to ensure a harmonious and safe cohabitation. Its calm and loyal temperament makes it an excellent companion for families.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Mexican Hairless Dog can live well with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. Their generally friendly and sociable nature allows for good integration into households with other dogs and even cats. However, as with any breed, supervised introductions and proper socialization are essential to ensure harmonious cohabitation. Their hunting instinct is not particularly developed, making them less likely to chase small pets.

Grooming needs

The Mexican Hairless Dog has relatively simple grooming needs due to its lack of fur, but its skin requires specific care. A weekly bath with a mild shampoo is recommended to keep its skin clean and healthy. It is crucial to protect their skin from external aggressions, such as sunburns and cold weather, by using sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and nails should be trimmed to avoid them becoming too long.

Health

The Mexican Hairless Dog is typically sturdy and healthy. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain hereditary conditions, such as dental problems due to the lack of certain hairs. Regular veterinary check-ups and special attention to their diet and exercise can help prevent and manage these issues. It is also crucial to keep their vaccinations up to date and provide regular anti-parasitic treatments to ensure optimal health throughout their lives.

Average price

The average price of a Mexican Hairless Dog puppy can vary considerably depending on the breeder, the puppy's lineage, and the region. In general, one can expect to pay between 800 and 1500 euros (900 to 1600 dollars) for a quality puppy. Puppies from champion lineages or destined for show purposes may cost more. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who conducts health tests on their breeding animals and raises their puppies in optimal conditions, ensuring the health and well-being of the animals.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Mexican Hairless Dog include food, veterinary care, health insurance, accessories, and grooming. On average, one can expect to spend between 1000 and 1500 euros (approximately 1100 to 1600 dollars) per year. This estimate includes high-quality food, regular vet visits, vaccines, parasite treatments, and other common expenses. Costs may vary depending on the specific needs of the dog and regional costs, but this estimate provides a good overview of the expected expenses.

Name ideas

For a Mexican Hairless Dog, names can reflect its Mexican heritage and unique appearance. "Xolo" is a direct tribute to its full name, Xoloitzcuintli. "Aztec" evokes its connection to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. "Tequila" reminds of the famous Mexican drink. "Luna" means moon, hinting at its mystical nature. "Coco" is inspired by the famous film about Mexican culture. "Sol" means sun, perfect for a dog living in hot climates. "Frida" in honor of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. "Zorro" for its agility. "Nacho" for a playful touch. "Diego" in tribute to the Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

Legislation and regulation

The Mexican Hairless Dog is generally not subject to specific legal restrictions in most countries. However, it is always prudent to check local regulations regarding dogs as they may vary. Some regions may have specific laws on dog breeds, but the Mexican Hairless Dog is not classified as a dangerous breed. It is recommended to inquire with local authorities to ensure compliance with current regulations and avoid any legal issues.

Official recognition

The Mexican Hairless Dog is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 234. In North America, it is also recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). The official breed club in Mexico is the Club Mexicano del Perro Xoloitzcuintle.

Pedigrees

The pedigrees of the Mexican Hairless Dog are available from breed clubs and official canine registries such as the FCI, AKC, and CKC. A pedigree provides detailed information about a dog's ancestors, ensuring its pure lineage and origins. These documents are essential for breeders and serious owners as they allow tracking of hereditary traits, potential genetic diseases, and ensuring that breed standards are met. Pedigrees also help in planning mating to maintain or improve the breed.

Destination and usage

The Mexican Hairless Dog, initially used by ancient civilizations for various roles ranging from hunting to spiritual companionship, is now primarily a companion dog. Their affectionate nature and variable size (standard, intermediate, and miniature) make them ideal companions for different types of households, including apartments. They also excel in canine sports competitions and conformation. Their unique appearance and historical connection also make them cultural ambassadors of their country of origin.

Prohibitions

The Mexican Hairless Dog is generally not subject to specific restrictions in most countries or regions of the world. However, it is always prudent to check local laws regarding dog breeds, as some jurisdictions may have particular restrictions or regulations for certain breeds, especially those perceived as potentially dangerous. The Mexican Hairless Dog, due to its non-aggressive temperament and history as a companion and working dog, generally escapes such restrictions.

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