Xoloitzcuintli
Weight
10–55 lbs
Lifespan
13–18
years
Allergies
Friendly
coat
See how this breed matches your lifestyle.
Take the quizThe Xoloitzcuintli (show-low-eats-queen-tlee) comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, and two varieties: hairless and coated. The hairless has tough, smooth, close-fitting skin. The coated variety is covered by a short, flat coat.Both varieties come in dark colors, ranging from black, gray-black, and slate, to red, liver, or bronze. The face is thoughtful and intelligent, and a Xolo’s forehead will wrinkle when he’s deep in thought. The Xolo’s graceful, elegant body is surprisingly strong and rugged. The 3,000-year-old Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee"), the ancient Aztec dog of the gods, is today a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. The alert and loyal Xolo comes in three sizes, and in either hairless or coated varieties.
Temperament: Loyal, Alert, Calm
RightPup profile built from structured breed data and reviewed against established breed reference sources. Learn more
Best For
Home & Lifestyle Fit
The Xoloitzcuintli is built for an active lifestyle. Daily exercise isn't optional — expect at least 45–60 minutes of real activity, plus mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, or dog sports. A house with a yard is ideal, though they can adapt to apartments if exercise needs are consistently met.
Day-to-Day Reality
Coat care is minimal: a quick brush and occasional bath keeps them looking their best. Shedding is low, which means less hair on furniture and clothing. This breed craves human company. Long days alone can lead to anxiety or destructive behavior, so a work-from-home setup or doggy daycare is worth planning for.
Things to Know First
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
Good Fit If
- Apartment or condo living
- Allergy-sensitive households
- Owners who enjoy training and teaching new skills
Not Ideal If
- Owners who work long hours without a plan for the dog during the day
- Owners expecting a completely hands-off companion
Breed Traits
Breed Highlights
- Size: Good (3/5)
- Good with Kids: Good (3/5)
- Good with Dogs: Good (3/5)
Ready to Meet One?
