Xoloitzcuintli Dog Breed Info And Characteristics

The Xoloitzcuintli or Mexican Hairless Dog, as they call it in English speaking countries, is a Primitive type pariah breed originating from Mexico, Central America. Besides Peruvian Hairless Dog, this is the only such breed in the class of primitive dogs by the FCI, and it’s included in the group 6: Primitive Types. Some experts believe that the Mexican Hairless is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, considering it is more than 3.500 years old. Unfortunately, as of yet, there is no clear evidence about the true origin or exact ancestors of this dog. According to some recent genetic studies of this breed, Xolo dogs evolved naturally through interbreeding and genetic mutation from the ancient dogs that originated in the Old World – they are anatomically very reminiscent of Mediterranean Sighthounds. However, it cannot be accurately determined when or how these dogs reached Central America. An early theory suggests that Xolo dogs came in the Americas over the Bering Strait crossing together with migrating peoples. Another theory suggests that they, under the influence of very humid and warm climate, actually evolved in such way from dogs brought into Mexico by Spanish traders during 1500s. Continue Reading →