The Xoloitzcuintli Coco is a rare and unique dog breed that's steeped in history and culture. They originated in Mexico, where they were highly valued for their loyalty and companionship.
This breed comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard, with the Coco being the smallest of the three. It's a fitting name, considering its small stature.
The Xoloitzcuintli Coco is known for its short, smooth coat, which requires minimal grooming. This makes it a great choice for busy owners who don't have a lot of time to devote to dog grooming.
They're an ancient breed, with evidence of their existence dating back over 3,000 years.
Additional reading: Xoloitzcuintli Breed Standard
Physical Characteristics
The xoloitzcuintli coco is a breed like no other, and its physical characteristics are a big part of its charm. They come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, ranging from 10 to 55 pounds and 10 to 26 inches tall.
Their sleek bodies are a joy to behold, with almond-shaped eyes and large bat-like ears that make them look like they're always listening. A long neck adds to their elegant appearance.
These dogs are either completely hairless or have a short, flat coat, and both varieties can occur in the same litter. The hairless variety is completely bald on the body, with some dogs sporting a few short hairs on their heads, toes, or tails. Most hairless dogs are black or bluish-gray in color.
Their rectangular body proportions convey an impression of strength, agility, and elegance. They come in a range of sizes, which breeders have standardized into three designations: Standard, Miniature, and Toy.
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Appearance
Xoloitzcuintlis come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, with weights ranging from 10-55 pounds.
Their appearance is truly one-of-a-kind, with a distinctive look that's hard to ignore. They have long, muscular bodies with long, low-set tails.
These primal-looking dogs have large, upright ears and wrinkly brows that give them a quizzical expression.
Their coats can be either completely hairless or short and flat, and both types can be born in the same litter.
Most Xoloitzcuintlis are a dark color, typically black, gray, bronze, or red, and may have white spots for added flair.
Their unique appearance is sure to turn heads when you're out for a walk with your Xolo.
Mexican Hairless Dog Breed Size
The Mexican Hairless Dog breed size is quite unique. The breed comes in different sizes, ranging from toy to standard.
On average, they can grow to be 10 to 23 inches tall. This is a significant range, making them a versatile breed.
Their height can vary greatly, from 25 to 58 centimeters. This is a notable difference in size, making each dog a distinct individual.
Worth a look: Xoloitzcuintli Size and Weight
Characteristics
The Xoloitzcuintle is a primitive dog with a calm and attentive temperament. Its calm nature makes it an ideal companion for families with children or for people who want a low-maintenance pet.
One of the unique characteristics of the Xoloitzcuintle is that it's classified as a primitive dog, which means it's a breed that's been around for thousands of years.
The Xoloitzcuintle comes in a variety of sizes, from toy to standard, but its temperament remains the same across all sizes.
Here are some of the categories that the Xoloitzcuintle falls under:
As a primitive dog, the Xoloitzcuintle has a strong instinct to be with its pack, making it a great companion for active families or individuals.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a great resource for learning about dog breeds, including the Xoloitzcuintli. They recognize the Xoloitzcuintli as a rare breed.
The AKC was founded in 1884 and is dedicated to promoting the health, well-being, and advancement of purebred dogs.
Breed Traits
Xolos are highly intelligent and adaptable, making them a great companion for active owners.
They require a significant amount of time to train during puppyhood, so a busy household may not be the best fit.
These energetic pups need lots of attention and exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Xolos can be slow to warm up to strangers, so they may not be the most social dog in the park.
However, with proper training and socialization, they can make excellent family pets, even for families with older children who know how to interact with them gently.
A well-trained xolo will be a reliable companion for years to come, providing loyal and intense companionship to their owner.
They're also naturally athletic and healthy, making them a great partner for outdoor activities and adventures.
Their calm and alert nature makes them a great watchdog, always ready to alert their owner to any potential issues with a bark.
Pet Care Considerations
Xolos are happy companions as long as they get daily exercise. A Xolo is happy being by your side, whether you're in an apartment or a house.
Keep your Xolo on a leash when you're out on a run or walk, as their high prey drive means they'll run after smaller neighborhood animals.
Socialization is key for Xolos, especially when it comes to strangers. It can take a long time for them to warm up to new people, so you must socialize your Xoloitzcuintli puppy early and often to help with their natural wariness.
Daily exercise is a must for Xolos, so make sure to plan regular walks or runs with your furry friend.
Discover more: American Hairless Terrier vs Xolo
Interesting Facts
The xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Xolo, has a rich history in Mexican culture and is often featured in popular culture. They're the mascot of Club Tijuana, a professional soccer club in Baja California.
Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera were two of the Xolo's most famous owners and advocates. They often featured their beloved Xolos in photographs and artwork.
The Xolo got its big break on the silver screen in the popular Pixar animated film Coco, where a Xolo named Dante is the trusty companion of protagonist Miguel.
Here are some fun facts about the Xolo's representation in popular culture:
- The Xolo is the symbol and mascot of Club Tijuana.
- The Dolores Olmedo Museum keeps a pack of Xolos on their grounds.
- A Xolo named Dante stars in the Disney/Pixar film Coco.
- The Xolo is depicted in some of Frida Kahlo's paintings, including "The Love Embrace of the Universe, the Earth (Mexico), Myself, Diego, and Señor Xolotl" (1949).
They Come at a Cost
You can buy a xoloitzcuintli puppy in Mexico for $750, but in the US, it's a different story, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 on average.
The cost includes paperwork and American Kennel Club (AKC) registration, which is a big deal for many dog owners.
Breeders across the US and in Mexico can be a good source for finding a well-bred xoloitzcuintli, but be prepared to travel by plane to pick one up.
You can also check with breed-specific rescues, such as the nonprofit Xoloitzcuintli Primitive Breed Rescue, for a xolo in need of a new home.
Finding a rescue xolo may not be as common as with other breeds, but it's still worth looking into.
Health
The xoloitzcuintli coco is a relatively healthy breed, with a typical lifespan of 13-18 years.
They tend to be free from serious genetic diseases, which is a big plus for any dog owner.
Their skin can be prone to acne, especially during adolescence, so regular baths can help keep it clear.
Xolos often lose their premolars, which can give them a cute lolling tongue look, but don't worry, it doesn't affect their ability to eat.
They can be prone to overeating, which can lead to obesity and joint stress, so be sure to talk to your vet about maintaining a healthy diet.
Regular exercise and vet visits will help keep your xolo looking and feeling its best.
As an indoor dog breed, they're not suited for outdoor life in colder climates, so make sure to keep them indoors where it's warm and cozy.
Skin care is crucial, and most skin problems arise from poor breeding, neglect, or over-bathing and over-lotioning, so be gentle with their skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dog in Coco A Xolo?
Yes, the dog in the Disney/Pixar film Coco is indeed a Xoloitzcuintle, also known as a Xolo. This ancient Mexican breed holds a special place in Mexican culture, as designated by the Mayor of Mexico City in 2016.
What kind of dog is Coco?
The dog from Disney's Coco is a Xoloitzcuintli, also known as a Mexican Hairless Dog. This unique breed is known for its striking appearance and rich cultural heritage.
What is the mythology of the Xoloitzcuintli?
The Xoloitzcuintli was believed to be a guardian and protector in ancient mythology, tasked with safeguarding homes from evil spirits and intruders. According to legend, Xolos would also guide their owners' souls on their journey to the underworld.
Sources
- Xoloitzcuintli Club of America (xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org)
- according to the XCA (xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org)
- National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com)
- Club Tijuana (xolos.com.mx)
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- scholar (google.com)
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- "Frida Kahlo and her Itzcuintli Dogs" (lisawallerrogers.com)
- "Museo Dolores Olmedo y sus xoloitzcuintles: todo lo que debes saber antes de visitarlo" (eluniversal.com.mx)
- "Xoloitzcuintle, el perro azteca, patrimonio de la CDMX" (excelsior.com.mx)
- "Xoloitzcuintle patrimonio de la CDMX" (eluniversal.com.mx)
- "Museo de El Carmen inaugura expo sobre los xolos por el Día de Muertos" (milenio.com)
- "Aztec dog gains popularity in US after 'Coco'" (chicagotribune.com)
- "Official Standard of the Xoloitzcuintli" (akc.org)
- Xolo News (akc.org)
- "Xoloitzcuintli Dog Breed Information" (akc.org)
- "Can we identify the Mexican hairless dog in the archaeological record? Morphological and genetic insights from Tizayuca, Basin of Mexico" (whiterose.ac.uk)
- "GCH Bayshore's Giorgio Armani Leads the Way for Xoloitzcuintli Breed" (purinaproclub.com)
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Xoloitzcuintli information page (akc.org)
- The Xoloitzcuintli Club of America (XCA) (xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org)
- According to the breed club (xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org)
- slow feeder bowl (chewy.com)
- Mexico's Legendary Xoloitzcuintli, the Hairless Dog (americanindianmagazine.org)
- Xoloitzcuintli Club of America (xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org)
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- Xoloitzcuintli Primitive Breed Rescue (xolopbr.com)
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