Xoloitzcuintli — breed guide
The ancient Mexican hairless dog. Bare skin burns — sunscreen in summer, a coat in winter.
At a glance
- Group
- non-sporting
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 4–25 kg (9–55 lb)
- Life span
- 13–18 years
- Coat
- Hairless, or a short flat coat
Living with a Xoloitzcuintli
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Almost no grooming.
- Barely sheds.
- Quick to learn.
- Quiet.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Can live with a cat, with a slow introduction and an escape route for the cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Needs a coat in the cold.
Temperament
Calm · Watchful · Loyal · Reserved
Health to watch
- Sunburn
- Dental abnormalities
- Skin acne
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Xoloitzcuintli good with kids?
Generally yes. Xoloitzcuintlis are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Xoloitzcuintli good with cats?
It can work, with management. Introduce them gradually, feed them apart, and make sure the cat has vertical space the dog cannot reach. Plan to manage it rather than assume it.
How much exercise does a Xoloitzcuintli need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Xoloitzcuintli handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a Xoloitzcuintli's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.