Xoloitzcuintli Day of the Dead Discovering Mexico's Legendary Dog

The Xoloitzcuintli is a breed that's steeped in history and mystery. This legendary dog is an ancient Mexican breed that's been around for thousands of years.

In Mexico, the Xoloitzcuintli is considered a national treasure and is often associated with the Day of the Dead celebrations. Its name, Xoloitzcuintli, is derived from the Nahuatl language and means "dog that walks on its hind legs."

The Xoloitzcuintli is known for its unique appearance, with a short, sleek coat that comes in a variety of colors. Its physical characteristics have remained relatively unchanged over the centuries, making it a fascinating example of a breed that's been preserved through time.

One of the most distinctive features of the Xoloitzcuintli is its skull shape, which is said to resemble the Aztec god Xolotl. This association with the god adds to the breed's mystique and significance in Mexican culture.

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The xoloitzcuintli is an ancient breed that traces its roots back to the time of the Aztecs, making the breed at least 3,500 years old.

Take a look at this: Xoloitzcuintli Breed Standard

The breed name is a combination of the name of the dog god Xolotl and the Aztec word Itzcuintli, which means dog. This name reflects the breed's significant importance in Aztec culture.

In ancient Mexico, the xoloitzcuintli was a sacred dog that was frequently sacrificed and placed in the graves of their recently deceased owners because they were thought to help safely guide their owners' souls into the land of the dead.

The xoloitzcuintli was also thought to cure various health conditions, including asthma, rheumatism, and insomnia.

These dogs of Xolotl were said to have healing powers, especially effective in cases of asthma, rheumatism, and insomnia.

The breed was molded by natural selection, not by human manipulation, and was considered to be a natural breed, probably the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the ancestors of the xoloitzcuintli were dogs that accompanied migratory peoples across the Bering landmass–now submerged–from Asia to the New World.

The xoloitzcuintli takes their name from the Aztec deity Xolotl, the god of fire and the escort of the dead to the underworld, and “itzcuintli,” the Aztec word for dog.

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The xoloitzcuintli was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887, and a Mexican dog named Mee Too was the first Xolo registered with the AKC.

The breed might have disappeared altogether, but fans have brought it back from the brink of extinction, and today it is considered a national treasure in Mexico.

Approximately 30,000 xoloitzcuintlis are known to exist worldwide, and the breed was named dog of the year in Mexico in 2010.

The American Kennel Club brought the breed back into the fold in 2011, and the xoloitzcuintli currently resides at the intersection of rarity and popularity.

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The Xoloitzcuintli's grooming needs are surprisingly straightforward. They're a wash-and-wear dog, with the coated variety requiring occasional baths and minimal brushing.

The hairless variety, on the other hand, needs frequent baths to remove oily buildup on their skin, which can be a bit more involved. They also require a moisturizing lotion rubbed all over their skin after bathing.

Regular toothbrushing and nail trimming are also essential for the Xolo's overall health and well-being.

Grooming is a crucial aspect of caring for your Xoloitzcuintli. The coated variety is a wash-and-wear dog that requires occasional baths and minimal brushing.

The hairless variety, on the other hand, needs frequent baths to remove oily buildup on the skin, followed by a moisturizing lotion rubbed all over the skin. This is essential to keep their skin healthy and clean.

Some Mexican Hairless Xolos might need a pet-safe sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun. It's not uncommon for their skin to feel thick, tough, and protective, rather than soft or silky.

In adolescence, acne and cradle cap are common issues that can arise. This is usually during the dog's first year, and extra skincare may be required to minimize these issues.

Regular toothbrushing and nail trimming are also essential for your Xolo's overall health and well-being.

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The Mexican hairless dog, or xoloitzcuintle, has a rich history that dates back 7,000 years. They were first domesticated around 5,500 years ago.

In Mexico, the Aztecs revered these dogs and named them after the god of death, Xolotl, combined with "itzcuintli", or dog. They believed the dogs would guide them to Mictlan, the underworld, after death.

The Aztecs even buried their loved ones with xolos, a practice that highlights the special bond between humans and these dogs. They're more than just pets; they're a symbol of Mexican identity.

Today, the xoloitzcuintle is experiencing a revival, particularly among the hipster set in trendy neighborhoods across Mexico City and the country. They're rolling around in the glory of a renaissance, and it's easy to see why.

Mexico's legendary dog, the Xoloitzcuintli, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. This ancient breed is named after the Aztec god Xolotl, who was revered for his loyalty and protection.

The Xoloitzcuintli's unique appearance, with its sleek, hairless body, is a result of its origins as a sacred animal in Aztec and Mayan cultures. It's a distinctive look that's both striking and memorable.

For your interest: Xoloitzcuintli Aztec Art

In Mexico, the Xoloitzcuintli is considered a national treasure, and its image appears on various cultural and historical artifacts. Its significance extends beyond its physical appearance, however, as it's also a symbol of loyalty and companionship.

The Xoloitzcuintli's association with the afterlife is deeply rooted in Mexican folklore, where it's believed to guide spirits to the afterlife. This mystical connection is reflected in its use as a symbol in Day of the Dead celebrations.

Despite its long history, the Xoloitzcuintli remains a rare breed, with only a few thousand individuals worldwide. Despite this, its popularity is growing, thanks to its unique appearance and loyal nature.