Other Names: Xoloitzquintle, Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo
Pronounced: Show Low Eats QUINT Lee
The Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) is a member of the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) non-sporting dog category. They officially come in three sizes toy (10-14 inches), miniature (14-18 inches), and standard (18-23 inches) as measured from the shoulder to the ground. Xolo’s range in weight from 10 to 55 pounds and have a life expectancy of 13 – 18 years.
Xolo’s have a long-recorded history in present day Mexico, reaching back 3000 years. The Aztecs considered them to be sacred and even had a dog-headed god named Xolotl. These dogs were often sacrificed when their owner died and buried with them because it was thought they would guide their owner into the next life.
As the only domesticated animal in Northwestern Mexico’s Colima culture, the Xolo’s predecessor, the Colima dog, was very important to daily life. It is no wonder that they were considered to have healing powers. Xolo’s feel like they have heat radiating off their skin. Modern owners sometimes refer to them as “hot water bottle dogs”.
Although fierce looking in the larger sizes, these dogs have a reputation for being very affectionate. They are considered good guard dogs but also excellent family pets with a gentle temperament.