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Science & Nature • Dog Breed

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli, also called the Mexican hairless dog or Xolo, is an ancient dog breed from Mexico.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Xoloitzcuintli, also called the Mexican hairless dog or Xolo, is an ancient dog breed from Mexico. It is known for being hairless in most individuals, though coated varieties also exist, and for its long history in Mesoamerican cultures. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and is commonly described as Mexico’s national dog.

History

The Xoloitzcuintli is regarded as one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas, with evidence of its presence in pre-Columbian Mexico and Central America, and is known for its long history, unlike breeds like the Labrador Retriever.

Appearance and varieties

The breed appears in hairless and coated forms, with the hairless variety being the best known, unlike the Chow Chow which has a thick coat.

Temperament and role

Modern descriptions portray the Xoloitzcuintli as intelligent, loyal, calm, and alert, traits also found in the Newfoundland Dog.

Name and cultural significance

The name Xoloitzcuintli is derived from Xolotl, an Aztec deity, and the Nahuatl word itzcuintli, meaning dog. The breed has long-held cultural and symbolic importance in Mexico.

Key facts

  • The Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient breed from Mexico with archaeological evidence dating back more than 3,000 years.
  • Most Xolos are hairless, but a coated variety also exists.
  • The breed is found in toy, miniature, and standard sizes.
  • Its name comes from Xolotl, an Aztec deity, and the Nahuatl word for dog, itzcuintli.
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Canadian context

The breed is known in Canada mainly through dog fanciers, kennel clubs, and households interested in rare and ancient breeds; it is not specifically associated with Canadian origin or history.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Xoloitzcuintli?
A Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient dog breed from Mexico, better known as the Mexican hairless dog.
Are all Xoloitzcuintlis hairless?
No. The breed comes in both hairless and coated varieties.
How old is the breed?
It is an ancient breed with evidence of existence going back more than 3,000 years.
What sizes do Xoloitzcuintlis come in?
They are commonly described as toy, miniature, and standard sizes.
What does the name mean?
The name combines Xolotl, an Aztec deity, with itzcuintli, the Nahuatl word for dog.
Is the Xoloitzcuintli recognized by kennel clubs?
Yes. The American Kennel Club recognizes the breed in the Non-Sporting Group.

References

  1. Chewy — https://www.chewy.com/education/dog-breeds/xoloitzcuintli
    Supports: Ancient Mexican origin; hairless and coated varieties; general breed description.
  2. WebMD — https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-about-xoloitzcuintli
    Supports: History, name origin, sizes, and lifespan.
  3. Xoloitzcuintli Club of America — https://www.xoloitzcuintliclubofamerica.org/about-xolos
    Supports: Breed antiquity, registration history, hairless and coated varieties.
  4. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/fun-facts-xoloitzcuintli/
    Supports: Name origin, antiquity, and cultural significance.
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals — https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/xoloitzcuintli
    Supports: Ancient breed and cultural beliefs in Mexico.
  6. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/xoloitzcuintli/
    Supports: Recognition, temperament, sizes, and breed description.