Xolo dogs do make good pets for people and families who have someone at home during much of the day.
Xolo is short for Xoloitzcuintli – otherwise known as the Mexican Hairless dog. Xolo is pronounced “show-low,” and is named after the Aztec god of fire and lightning.
These dogs are typically hairless but are available in coated varieties as well.
The hairless variety has a hide that is tough and also has a few coarse hairs on the feet, tail, and head. Be prepared to see heads turn when you walk a Xolo, as the hairless variety is something most people have never seen. Talk about a conversation starter!
The coated variety has a sleek coat that is very short.
What sizes do Xolos come in?
Xolos come in three sizes. The standard Xolo can be up to 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 55 pounds. The miniature Xolo is between 12 and 18 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 30 pounds, while the toy Xolo is 12 inches or less at the shoulder and weighs up to only 15 pounds.
What skincare do Xolos require?
The hairless variety of Xolos does require special attention to their skin.
If they are in the sun for prolonged periods they need sunscreen to prevent burns and to help prevent the onset of skin cancer. Pediatric sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher is a good choice. Consult your vet for the brand they recommend.
You can also use a special coat that covers them from neck to tail and has SPF built in to help protect your Xolo from the sun.
They also need to be bathed weekly and have their skin moisturized after a bath. The shampoo you use should be gentle and moisturizing. Usually, oatmeal shampoo will work well.
Xolos are prone to acne, especially when they are puppies. Keeping them wiped down with a damp cloth can help.
What special veterinary care does a Xolo need?
Xolos should have good dermatological veterinary care. This should include checking for the development of skin cancer and treating any that occurs. It should also include cysts below their knees.
The cysts aren’t typically cancerous and if they are caught early only require a special antibacterial shampoo to clear them up.
You should also make sure that your Xolo has good dental care. The genes that make them hairless can also cause dental problems.
Of course, just like any other dog, Xolos need routine veterinary care as well, including getting their shots.
What about allergies?
Many people who are allergic to other dogs aren’t allergic to Xolos. But this doesn’t apply to all allergy sufferers. The dog’s skin can still trigger allergies in some people.
If you are allergic to dogs and are considering a Xolo, try to spend some time with this breed before committing to owning one so that you can see how your allergies will react.
Are Xolo dogs aggressive?
Xolos can be reserved with strangers, but typically aren’t aggressive. The dogs are good at guarding and will bark at new people coming to the house, but most of the time they won’t scare anyone off because of their reserved nature.
Are Xolo good dogs?
This breed is known for its loyalty. They often have a favorite member of their family that they like the most, but won’t snub additional family members. They also like being around other dogs and enjoy their company.
They are smart and have had relationships with humans for at least 5,000 years. Because of that, they make great pets – as long as you have enough time to spend with them.
Is The Xoloitzcuintli a good family dog?
The Xolo makes an excellent family pet. They are loyal, they aren’t aggressive by nature, and they love to be part of a pack. Most people aren’t allergic to Xolos and they do well in apartments and houses with small backyards.
Are Xoloitzcuintlis good for first-time owners?
Yes. Xolos have excellent personalities for first-time owners. They are fairly easy to train, loyal, and happy hanging out on the couch as long as they get a daily walk.
As we’ve said, if you are going to get a Xolo you should be prepared for many questions from curious strangers. Also, make sure you understand how to take care of your Xolo’s skin.
Are Xolo dogs easy to train?
Xolos are fairly easy to train dogs. They are loyal and want to please you. The AKC rates the Xolo training level a four out of five.
Are Xolo dogs high maintenance?
It depends on what you mean by high maintenance. You have to clip a Xolo’s nails and taking care of its skin is a bit more time-consuming than with other breeds. But overall they are easy dogs to live with.
Xolos do well in most living situations as long as they are adequately protected from cold weather, have enough companionship, and get a moderate amount of exercise.
Can Xolo dogs be left alone?
Xolos are great dogs if you work from home, but if you are out of the house for 10 or 12 hours a day this is not the breed for you. Xolos get anxious when they are left alone for more than a few hours at a time. That anxiety can lead to destructive behavior.
Do Xolo dogs bark a Lot?
Xolos do bark. They will bark at strangers who are near your home but can also bark at every new sound and new sight. However, Xolos aren’t known for barking incessantly, but they aren’t super quiet breeds either.