Xoloitzcuintli God The Ancient Mexican Hairless Dog

The Xoloitzcuintli God is an ancient Mexican breed that's been around for thousands of years.

This breed has a rich history dating back to the time of the Aztecs and Mayans.

One of the most distinctive features of the Xoloitzcuintli is its hairlessness, with some varieties having a short, smooth coat and others being completely hairless.

The Xoloitzcuintli is also known for its athletic ability and is often referred to as the "Mexican Hairless Dog".

Expand your knowledge: Xoloitzcuintli Definition

The Xoloitzcuintli was considered sacred by the Aztecs, who associated it with the underworld and the god of death, Xolotl.

Ceramic depictions of Xoloitzcuintlis have been found in West Mexico, showcasing their importance in Aztec culture.

Xolos were created from the Bone of Life, a piece of bone given to humans as a promise that the dogs would safely guide them from life to beyond the veil.

Aztec legend states that Xolo dogs were created from the Bone of Life, which was a significant part of their mythology.

A different take: God Created Animals

Xolos were buried with human skeletons in Aztec tombs, where they served as guides to the underworld for the deceased.

Their skeletons have been discovered in both Mayan and Toltec burial sites, highlighting their widespread presence in pre-Columbian civilizations.

Xolos were thought to have spiritual powers that kept bad spirits away, making them a valuable companion in life and death.

Little Xolo figurines have been found in many tombs, further solidifying their importance in Aztec mythology.

In some excavations, the remains of Xoloitzcuintlis have been found accompanying their owners, supporting the theory that some dogs were sacrificed to accompany their owner to the Land of the Dead.

Suggestion: Xoloitzcuintli Aztec Art

The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient breed that dates back to the times of the Aztecs and Mayans.

This breed is known for its unique appearance, with some varieties having a short, smooth coat and others having a longer, more wiry coat.

Additional reading: Xoloitzcuintli Breed Standard

The Xoloitzcuintli is a relatively small dog, with adults typically weighing between 20-44 pounds.

They come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard.

Their lifespan is relatively long, ranging from 14 to 18 years.

The Xoloitzcuintli is a highly intelligent breed that is known for being easy to train.

They are also known for being loyal and protective of their families.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.

The Xoloitzcuintli is a rare breed, but it's gaining popularity in recent years.

They are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being.

If you're thinking of bringing a xoloitzcuintli into your life, be prepared for a significant upfront cost. In the U.S., you can expect to pay between $1,500 to $3,000 on average.

Finding a well-bred xoloitzcuintli can be a challenge, but there are reputable breeders across the U.S. and in Mexico. You can start your search on the American Kennel Club's website or look for breeders through a breeder registry.

The cost of owning a xoloitzcuintli is not just about the initial purchase price. You may also need to factor in travel costs if you need to pick up your puppy from a breeder.

A xoloitzcuintli-specific rescue is possible, but not very common. You can try searching on Pet Finder or reaching out to breeders to see if they have any dogs that need re-homing.

The nonprofit Xoloitzcuintli Primitive Breed Rescue is a good source for finding a xoloitzcuintli in need of a new home.