Are Xoloitzcuintles Dogs Hypoallergenic?
Yes! Lack of hair makes Xolo dogs hypoallergenic. It also makes them a perfect pet choice for people with dog allergies.
The Xoloitzcuintli Hypoallergenic Dog
Xoloitzcuintli (pronunciation: “Show-low-eatz-queen-tlee”) remains one of the most ancient dog breeds. Also known as Mexican Hairless dogs or Xoloitzcuintles, Xolo dogs have a sacred place in Mexican culture. The breed is mostly hairless, which makes the Xolo dog hypoallergenic, and therefore, a perfect companion for allergy sufferers.
Loyal, cheerful, and affectionate, the Xoloitzcuintli dog will do anything for its family. They are active and have a protective side, which means they can be great watchdogs. Since Xolos are highly intelligent, training them is straightforward, but their independent nature means you will have to be consistent and set boundaries.
Did You Know…
Xoloitzcuintli, named after the Aztec god of lightning and death, has been around for over 3500 years! These primitive canines were believed to be sent by God as healers and guards of the living. Ancient Aztec and Maya considered them the guides of the souls through the Mictlán, the underworld.
For a synopsis of the details below, skip to our Xoloitzcuintli hypoallergenic dog breed summary, further down the page.
Xoloitzcuintli Quick Facts
Hypoallergenic Dog: | Yes |
Shedding: | Low to non |
Drooling: | Low |
Size: | Toy, miniature, and standard |
Breed Group: | Non-Sporting |
Lifespan: | 13-18 years |
Energy Level: | Moderate |
Trainability: | Easy |
Family Dog: | Yes! |
What’s Coming up on This Page?
The Xoloitzcuintli’s Physical Characteristics
Xoloitzcuintli Dogs Hypoallergenic Coat
Xoloitzcuintli Health Issues and Care
If you have specific questions about Xoloitzcuintli dog breed, check out our FAQ section.
About the Breed
The Xoloitzcuintli’s Physical Characteristics
The sturdy and strong Xoloitzcuintli dog breed comes in three sizes:
Size Variety | Height | Weight |
Toy Xolo | 10–14 inches (23–36 cm) | 5–15 pounds (2.3–6.8 kg) |
Miniature Xolo | 15–18 inches (38–51 cm) | 15–30 pounds (6.8–14 kg) |
Standard Xolo | 19–23 inches (51–76 cm) | 25–40 pounds (11–18 kg) |
With their expressive almond-shaped eyes, the Xolo dog gives an impression of a thoughtful and vivacious companion. The eye color can range from yellow to black. However, one distinctive feature is their bat-like ears that stand erect, giving an alert impression.
The head is wedge-shaped, and the muzzle is long. Nose color depends on the skin color, which can be black, slate, gray-black, liver, red, or bronze. Hairless Xolo dogs are also known for missing their premolars.
Xoloitzcuintli Dogs Hypoallergenic Coat
Xolo dog’s hypoallergenic coat comes in two variants:
- Hairless Xoloitzcuintles: The absence of hair is the primary characteristic of this variety. However, patches of short rough hair may be present on the head, paws, and tip of the tail.
- Coated Xoloitzcuintles: These types of Xolo dogs have a short and smooth coat covering the whole body uniformly. The hair can be of any color.
The low to non-shedding coat makes the Xolo dog hypoallergenic. With your Mexican hairless dog, you won’t have to worry about allergies or dog hair on your couch.
Xolo dogs are calm, affectionate, and cheerful. Family-oriented — they are incredibly faithful. Xolos are protective of their loved ones and make fantastic guardians and an excellent companion or family dog — given the right training. They get along with other dogs and are cat friendly.
Although independent, Xolo dogs are also known to be Velcro dogs. Your Xolo will follow you around the house and try to be as close to you as possible.
Xoloitzcuintli Training and Exercise
Encouraging Good Behavior in Your Xoloitzcuintli
Intelligent and active, Xoloitzcuintli are highly trainable. If trained right since puppyhood, they do well in agility and other competitions.
The Xoloitzcuintli dog breed tends to suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for a long period and can be wary of strangers. Therefore, your Xolo puppy needs crate training as well as socialization training from day one!
Xolo dogs are a medium-energy dog breed. A daily long walk and some playtime with the family would keep your pup happy and healthy.
Xoloitzcuintli Grooming and Care
Xolo dogs’ hypoallergenic coat requires minimal grooming. They are mostly hairless, so you don’t have to worry about coat trimming or brushing. Expert groomers advise giving them a bath once a month using a good moisturizing shampoo. This will ensure that they don’t lose essential skin oils because of excessive bathing.
Ear cleaning and claw trimming of your Xolo dogs should be a part of the weekly grooming regime. Whereas, regular teeth brushing keeps the dental problems away.
Find out what equipment you will need for grooming your dog.
Similar Dog Breeds To Xoloitzcuintli
Xoloitzcuintli Health Issues and Care
A hearty breed, Xoloitzcuintles aren’t prone to any particular health problems. Since they evolved through natural selection, these canines don’t have breed-specific genetic diseases.
Their exposed skin, however, needs special care. Make sure that your pup is covered with sunscreen before you take them out. In winter, they will need extra protection — cover them with a sweater.
Conclusion
The spirited, devoted, and affectionate Xoloitzcuintli dog makes a valuable companion dog! This breed will be extremely faithful to you and will protect your family.
Xoloitzcuintle is smart and active, so it’s relatively easy to train them. The absence of hair makes the Xolo dog hypoallergenic! It is a perfect family dog for people who suffer from dog allergies.
Xoloitzcuintli FAQ
Does Xoloitzcuintli Dog Have Dander?
Yes. This breed tends to have skin dander, but it is minimal, making the Xolo dogs hypoallergenic!
Find out how you can reduce dander levels in your homes here.
Does Xoloitzcuintli Dog Breed Have Hair?
It depends. The Xolo dog breed has two variants. The Hairless Xolo doesn’t have any fur. In contrast, the coated variety has a short and smooth full coat.
Do Coated Xoloitzcuintli Dogs Shed?
Minimally. They shed very little, making the Xolo dogs hypoallergenic and a perfect breed for people prone to allergies.
Do Xoloitzcuintli Bark a Lot?
Occasionally. Though an even-tempered breed, Xolo dogs tend to bark at intruders, which makes them a wonderful watchdog!
Are Xoloitzcuintli Good Pets to Have?
Yes! Faithful, loving, and playful, the Xoloitzcuintli makes a delightful house pet.
How Much Do Xoloitzcuintli Hypoallergenic Dogs Cost?
A rare breed, Xolo dog, is sold for $2500 on average!
Xoloitzcuintli Facts Summary
Breed | Xoloitzcuintli |
Other Names? | Xolo, Mexican Hairless dog, Xoloitzcuintles |
Hypoallergenic? | Yes |
Size | Small / Miniature / Standard |
Height | 10 to 23 inches (23 to 76 cm) |
Weight | 5 to 40 pounds (2.3 to 18 kg) |
Lifespan | 13 to 18 years |
Temperament | Calm, cheerful, alert, affectionate. |
Colors | Black, slate, gray-black, liver, red or bronze. |
Coat | Coated: soft and dense coat with a sheen. Hairless: No coat. |
How much grooming? | Moderate |
How much shedding | No or low shedding |
Dander levels | Low |
Saliva–Drooling and licking frequency? | Low |
Energy levels | Medium |
How much exercise do they need? | Moderate. A daily long walk is enough. |
Health problems | No breed-specific genetic issues. |
Suitable for kids? | Yes |
How much do they bark? | Occasional |
Can they be left alone? | No. They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. |
Intelligent? | Yes. |
Trainable? | Yes. Highly trainable. |
How popular as a pet? | Xoloitzcuintli Hypoallergenic dogs are rare. |