The oldest and rarest dog breed is the Mexican dog (Xolo). Of all hairless dog breeds, this is the most unpretentious and hardy. The Mexican Hairless Dog has a calm, devoted disposition. She is omnivorous, and it is easy enough to keep her in the apartment.
The Mexican hairless dog breed was bred over 3000 years ago. According to the most widespread version, this breed first appeared among the Aztecs. But there is an opinion that the first ancestors of these dogs came to South America from Asia, since a similar breed already existed in Turkey - a hairless dwarf Turkish greyhound.
The real name of the Mexican dog is xoloitzcuintle or xolo. The first images of this breed are on frescoes and figurines of the Aztecs, dating back to 200-900 BC. Xolos were considered sacred dogs, representatives of the god Xolotl, hence their name. These dogs in ancient times lived in temples, were considered a gift from the gods and healers. The Indians used xolo as a heating pad in the treatment of rheumatism. And even today the Mexican Hairless Dog is a national treasure in Mexico.
Exterior of the breed
The Meshican dog is completely hairless or covered with sparse, short, tight-fitting hair - the izcuintle. The litter may contain both hairless and hairless puppies. To keep the breed pure, mating of two covered dogs is not permitted. Only naked specimens are suitable for exhibitions. The presence of short hairs on the forehead, tip of the tail and fingers is allowed.
The Mexican Hairless Dog is a medium-sized breed. These are dogs of strong constitution, with a developed chest, it has long legs and a tail. The skin is dark, dense, evenly stretched, folds are visible only on the forehead. In the course of a thousand-year evolution, xolo skin has acquired resistance to any damage, including sunburn. Often this skin density makes it difficult to administer injections to dogs.
Surprisingly, Xolo puppies are born short-legged and wrinkled. Over time, the body acquires the correct shape, the skin tightens.
Psychological picture
The Mexican Hairless Dog is considered a good watchdog and companion. The disposition is calm, silent and cheerful. Xolo is alert to strangers and very loyal to the owner. She does not show aggression towards people and other dogs and calmly coexists in the company of other pets. Xolos are very intelligent and easy to train.
Subtleties of content
The Mexican dog is suitable for home keeping, but requires regular exercise to keep in good shape. Therefore, you should walk with the dog for a long time in a free area, letting it off the leash so that it can run around to its fullest.
The bare skin of a Mexican dog does not require any special care. You need to bathe the dog once every two months, after drying it is better to rub a moisturizer into the skin. The dog is very resistant to various kinds of diseases and infections; health problems usually do not arise.
Xolo has an enviable appetite, often eats everything that the owner offers. But as a predator, the dog needs meat. The life expectancy of a Mexican dog is 12-15 years on average.
