The Xoloitzcuintli, often called the Mexican Hairless Dog or simply Xolo (Sho-lo), is an ancient breed that originated in Mexico. It’s considered one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. These dogs were highly regarded by the Toltec, Aztec, and Maya civilizations. Thanks to archaeological discoveries we know about clay figurines, artwork, and mummified remains of these dogs. And these discoveries date back at least 3,000 years, and possibly as far as 5,000 years. Although their sleek appearance may remind some of the Egyptian god Anubis, known as a guide to the afterlife, there’s no direct link between the two. The breed’s name is derived from Xolotl, the Aztec god associated with death and the underworld. In Aztec mythology, Xolotl often appeared in the form of a dog that guided souls to the underworld. The second part of their name, itzcuīntli, simply translates to “dog” in Nahuatl.
Sacred Status, Burial Practices, and Mummification
People considered Xoloitzcuintli sacred due to their connection to Xolotl. While some Mesoamerican cultures did practice dog sacrifice, this wasn’t always the case for this hairless dog. People often cherished them as companions. In some instances, owners mummified them, though not necessarily for ritual sacrifice. Occasionally, people buried them alongside their deceased owners, symbolically guiding them to the afterlife. Befriending a Mexican Hairless Dog was often seen as part of the spiritual journey.
In pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, people assigned the Xoloitzcuintli an important role in religious ceremonies and occasionally consumed its meat. However, they did not limit this practice to the Xoloitzcuintli; they also included other dog breeds in rituals. Historical evidence suggests that people typically preferred other sources of meat.
Beyond their ceremonial significance, people highly valued Xolos for their therapeutic properties. People believed these dogs could absorb illnesses and often used them as natural “heaters” to relieve aches and pains. Their warm skin provided soothing comfort, and many thought sleeping with a Mexican Hairless Dog could help ease ailments like toothaches, colic, and back or joint pain.
It’s important to approach the topic of Xolo consumption with cultural sensitivity. This practice was part of a rich and complex belief system in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica and shouldn’t be oversimplified or sensationalized. It reflects the deep spiritual and practical connections these societies had with their environment and animals.
How Did This Hairless Dog Survive the Spanish Conquest?
While the arrival of the Spanish brought significant cultural changes, many indigenous practices involving the Xolo endured in adapted forms. Today, this unique breed continues to be celebrated as a living link to Mexico’s ancient past.
After the conquest of Mexico, the Xoloitzcuintli population saw a dramatic decline. The Spanish, who associated the breed with indigenous religious practices, contributed to its persecution. However, the breed’s decline was likely due to a combination of factors, including shifts in cultural traditions and the introduction of new dog breeds. By the early 19th century, the Mexican Hairless Dog’s numbers dwindled further as people used their hides sometimes for leather goods.
Modern Preservation Efforts and Recognition
Efforts to revive the Xoloitzcuintli began in 1954, led by Norman Pelham Wright, an enthusiast who traveled to remote indigenous villages in central Mexico, particularly in southern Guerrero and the Rio Balsas region. Wright acquired over a dozen dogs, which became the foundation for the breed’s preservation. In 1956, the first breed standard was established, and in 1960, the Mexican Kennel Federation officially recognized the Xoloitzcuintli. The American Kennel Club (AKC) initially recognized the breed in 1887 but removed it from the registry in the 1940s due to its rarity. They later reinstated it in 1991. The International Cynological Federation (FCI) adopted a modern breed standard in 2014 .
By 1960, only a handful of Xoloitzcuintli officially remained in Mexico. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the breed has made an impressive recovery. Today, thousands of Xoloitzcuintli thrive in Mexico and around the world, celebrated as a living symbol of the country’s ancient cultural heritage.
Genetic Diversity and Natural Selection
The Xoloitzcuintli is a naturally occurring, or “primitive,” breed that developed through natural selection rather than human intervention. Their lack of fur is the result of a genetic mutation that became established over generations. This trait made them well-suited to Mexico’s climate, giving them an advantage over their fur-covered counterparts.
The Xoloitzcuintli holds a unique place in history, earning a spot in the Guinness World Records as the oldest dog breed in the Americas and for having the highest body temperature among dog breeds.
Physical Characteristics of this Hairless Dog
People best know these dogs for their smooth, soft skin, and they most often appear hairless, though “furry” varieties also exist. Historically, breeders preferred the hairless variety, but coated Xolos have always contributed to maintaining the breed’s genetic diversity. In 2014, registries officially recognized coated Xoloitzcuintli as meeting the breed standard.
Hairless Xolos may have small patches of short, coarse hair on areas like the forehead, feet, and tail tip, but these do not form a crest. If any coat is present, it is short, smooth, and even, with no undercoat, preserving their sleek and distinctive silhouette. Coated Xolos, by contrast, have fur covering their entire body.
Their colors range from black and various shades of gray to reddish, bronze, liver, and fawn, often with spots of any color, including white markings. One of the breed’s most distinctive features is its large, upright ears, which give them an alert and elegant look. Their movements are graceful and fluid, reflecting their balanced structure.
Xoloitzcuintli come in three sizes: standard (46–60 cm), miniature (36–45 cm), and toy, with weights varying accordingly. These dogs typically live 13 to 18 years. Known for their calm, loyal nature, Xolos are non-aggressive and vigilant, though reserved with strangers. They form a strong bond with their owner, respond well to training, and make excellent companions.
Frida Kahlo’s Affinity and Legacy with the Breed
The Mexican artist Frida Kahlo had a deep affection for Xoloitzcuintli dogs. Her home was filled with an array of animals, including birds, monkeys, cats, and, of course, dogs, all of which she cherished. Among them, she kept at least three Xoloitzcuintli at different times as beloved companions.
Frida’s choice of Xoloitzcuintli was no coincidence. During that period, the Mexican elite were embracing the cultural heritage of their country, particularly the pre-Columbian era. The Xoloitzcuintli, with its striking appearance and ancient lineage, became a symbol of national pride and cultural identity. Their rich history, as well as their elegance, originality, and the profound emotional connection they inspired, drew Frida to them.
Frida and her husband, Diego Rivera, both influential figures in the art world and Mexican society, played a significant role in promoting the Xolos. Their affection for the breed, along with its frequent appearances in their art, helped bring renewed attention to this unique part of Mexico’s cultural legacy.
Looking to explore more about Mexico and its incredible culture? Take a look at our article: 22 Interesting Facts About Mexico!
