Page 31 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

PRIMITIVE DOG S 31

XOLOITZCUINTLI

THIS CALM-NATURED, ALERT DOG IS EASY TO CARE FOR AND MAKES A DELIGHTFUL COMPANION AKC

Height range In pre-Conquest Mexico, hairless dogs were believed to have
Miniature: sacred significance and were often used as a sacrifice or ritually
10–14 in (25–35 cm)
Intermediate: eaten in religious ceremonies. Because of these practices, hairless Black skin
14–18 in (36–45 cm) dogs barely escaped extinction, and it was not until the mid-20th
Standard:
18–24 in (46–60 cm) century that breeders began to work toward its recovery. Three
different sizes are now recognized. Like all hairless dogs, this breed
Weight range
Miniature: has limited general appeal and remains something of a rarity.
10–15 lb (2–7 kg) Nonetheless, the Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless,
Intermediate:
15–31 lb (7–14 kg) is charming, good-tempered, and intelligent and is likely to reward
Standard: its owner with loyalty and affection.
31–55 lb (14–25 kg) Tufts of hair
on forehead
Life span Over 10 years
Origin Mexico
Standard
Large, long ears,
erect when alert
Other colors
Bronze skin

Red Liver Miniature
(puppy) Head has slight stop
and tapering muzzle

Traces of dark
hair on tail

Firm, slender neck

Dark gray skin

Intermediate

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