Xoloitzcuintli (Toy)

Origins and History

The Xoloitzcuintli, often called the Xolo or Mexican Hairless, is one of the oldest known dog breeds, with archaeological evidence dating back more than 3,000 years in pre‑Classic Mesoamerica. The breed was revered by the Aztecs as a spiritual guide and companion to the after‑life. After the Spanish conquest the Xolo's numbers declined, but dedicated breeders in Mexico revived the three size varieties—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—through the 20th century. The Toy Xolo was formally recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in the Toy Group (Section 2) and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the Toy Group in 2011.

General Characteristics

• Compact, well‑balanced build with a straight topline and a deep chest.
• Alert, confident temperament; loyal to family, often reserved with strangers.
• Originally a companion and ceremonial dog; today a companion animal and show breed.

Physical Specifications

• Height (withers): Males 9‑12 inches (23‑30 cm); Females 8‑11 inches (20‑28 cm).
• Weight: Males 4‑9 lbs (1.8‑4.1 kg); Females 3‑8 lbs (1.4‑3.6 kg).

Coat and Color

• Hairless variety: smooth, tight skin without wrinkles; fine down may be present on the head, neck, and tail base.
• Coated variety: short, glossy, flat‑lying coat, not exceeding 1/8 inch in length.
• Accepted colors (both hairless and coated): solid black, solid gray, solid red, solid liver, and brindle. White is not permitted.

Temperament Considerations

The Toy Xolo is intelligent and eager to please, yet can exhibit a strong‑willed streak. Early socialization is essential to prevent shyness around unfamiliar people or animals. Their sensitivity to temperature means they may be less tolerant of extreme cold or heat during training sessions.

Training Essentials

• Begin socialization by 8‑10 weeks with a variety of sights, sounds, and gentle handling.
• Provide short, frequent training bouts (5‑10 minutes) to match their attention span.
• Incorporate positive‑reinforcement methods; harsh corrections can damage the bond.
• Exercise needs are modest—daily walks and brief play sessions are sufficient.
• Common challenges include occasional stubbornness and a tendency to become overly protective of their owner.

Daily Grooming

• Hairless: wipe skin with a damp cloth to remove debris; apply a light moisturizer if skin appears dry.
• Coated: brush once daily with a soft bristle brush to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils.
• Bathing: every 4‑6 weeks for hairless, using a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo; coated dogs may be bathed every 6‑8 weeks.
• Nail trimming every 2‑3 weeks; dental care (brush teeth or dental chews) at least 3 times per week.

Show Preparation

• Begin a grooming schedule 2 weeks before the show: clean skin, trim paw pads, and ensure ears are free of excess hair.
• For coated dogs, clip the coat to the prescribed length and polish the coat to a high shine.
• Apply a light, non‑greasy conditioner to hairless skin 24 hours before the ring to enhance skin suppleness.
• Check that the dog meets the height and weight standards; any excess weight must be managed before the show.
• Practice the standard gait and movement on a flat surface to ensure correct ring presentation.

Common Health Issues

• Dental abnormalities – missing premolars and irregular tooth eruption, especially in the hairless variety.
• Skin sensitivity – prone to sunburn, dryness, and occasional dermatitis; requires protection from extreme temperatures.
• Patellar luxation – especially in smaller dogs; regular orthopedic checks recommended.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other hereditary eye disorders; annual ophthalmic examinations advised.
• Hypothyroidism – may present with weight gain and lethargy; routine blood work can detect early.

General Care

• Exercise: 30‑45 minutes of moderate activity daily; avoid overexertion in hot or cold weather.
• Nutrition: high‑quality small‑breed kibble formulated for 2‑4 kg dogs; maintain body condition score 4‑5/9.
• Lifespan: typically 12‑15 years; regular veterinary wellness exams every 6‑12 months support longevity.