Xoloitzcuintle
Miniature: 4–10 kg; Intermediate: 10–15 kg; Standard: 15–25 kg.
Miniature: 25–35 cm; Intermediate: 36–45 cm; Standard: 46–60 cm.
12-15 years
Mexico
About the Xoloitzcuintle
The Xoloitzcuintle, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient, primitive breed that has existed in Mexico for over 3,000 years. Named after the Aztec god Xolotl, this breed was historically revered for its warm skin and devoted companionship. Today, they are prized as exceptionally clean, quiet, and devoted companions. Physically, the Xolo is characterized by a sleek, muscular body with a clean-cut head and large, 'bat-like' ears that contribute to its alert and intelligent expression. They exist in three sizes—Miniature, Intermediate, and Standard—and two coat varieties—Hairless and Coated. While the hairless variety is most famous, the coated variety is equally vital to the breed's genetic health. Their calm and thoughtful nature makes them excellent indoor companions, though their primitive instincts mean they remain naturally cautious around unfamiliar people and environments.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Xoloitzcuintle exhibits a noble, harmonious silhouette with a rectangular body proportion and a smooth, supple skin that must feel tight and firm. Their movement is elegant and effortless, covering ground with a long, agile stride that reflects their primitive origins. They possess a regal and stoic presence with a calm, attentive demeanour. Their deep-set, almond-shaped eyes convey an alert and intelligent expression, making them a distinctive and captivating entry in the Non-Sporting group.
Bred For
Standard and Intermediate: watchdog; Miniature: companion.
Temperament
Calm, alert, loyal, and aloof with strangers, but deeply affectionate with their family.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Missing teeth (genetically linked to the hairless gene), skin sensitivities (acne, sunburn), (in Toy and Miniature varieties), and (in the Standard variety).
Exercise Needs
Daily exercise should be tailored to the individual dog's size variety, age, fitness and health. Most Xoloitzcuintles benefit from a daily walk plus free movement and mental engagement. Standard and Intermediate varieties typically enjoy longer outings, while Miniature varieties may be satisfied with shorter, more frequent activity. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather, particularly for the hairless variety.
Grooming Needs
Hairless variety requires regular skin cleansing, moisturizing with non-comedogenic oils, and sun protection; Coated variety needs weekly brushing and occasional bathing.
Living Suitability
The Xoloitzcuintle is a calm, clean and quiet indoor companion, well suited to apartment living when given daily outdoor exercise. Due to their sparse or absent coat, they are sensitive to sun, cold and extreme temperatures — provide shade, dog-safe sunscreen on exposed skin in warmer months, and a warm coat or shelter in cooler weather. Outdoor time should be supervised and climate-appropriate rather than unrestricted.
Good with Kids
Generally good with respectful, older children; their calm nature may be overwhelmed by very young or boisterous children.
Good with Other Pets
Usually peaceful with other dogs and pets if socialized early, though they can be reserved or protective of their home environment.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent and sensitive; they respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement and may shut down with harsh corrections.
Coat & Colours
Hairless (skin is tough and smooth) or Coated (short, sleek, and dense).. Black, slate, grey, dark grey, reddish, liver, bronze, or charcoal; can be solid or spotted.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be prepared for the specific skin care needs of the hairless variety; they are predisposed to skin dryness, acne (especially during puberty), and sunburn, requiring regular moisturizing and UV protection. Like many primitive breeds, they can be more likely to exhibit a wary or protective streak toward strangers, which doesn't mean every Xolo will be reactive, but early socialization is vital. Their lack of premolars is a common genetic trait associated with hairlessness and usually doesn't affect their ability to eat, though dental health should be monitored. They are also more likely to be sensitive to the cold and require coats or jumpers during Australian winters. While generally healthy, their primitive nature means they may have a higher prey drive or a tendency to be 'velcro dogs' who prefer constant human company, potentially leading to separation anxiety if not carefully managed.
Feeding Guide for Your Xoloitzcuintle
Healthy Weight
Miniature: 5–8 kg; Intermediate: 10–14 kg; Standard: 18–23 kg.
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
Varies by size variety — Miniature: ~100–240g/day; Intermediate: ~200–420g/day; Standard: ~360–690g/day (general starting estimates).
Feeding quantities vary significantly across the three size varieties. As a general starting estimate, feed approximately 2–3% of the dog's ideal body weight daily in fresh food. For a Miniature Xoloitzcuintle (5–8 kg), this is roughly 100–240g per day; for an Intermediate (10–14 kg), approximately 200–420g per day; and for a Standard (18–23 kg), approximately 360–690g per day. Adjust based on body condition, activity and veterinary advice.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
No special breed-specific protein preference is established for the Xoloitzcuintle. For a healthy adult dog, Majestik recommends selecting a suitable Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal according to the dog's size variety, ideal weight, body condition, activity and individual tolerance.
A diet focused on lean proteins like Australian kangaroo or beef, which are available from Majestik Pet Food. Include 10% organ meat (liver, kidney) for vitamins, 10% edible bone for calcium, and 20% blended vegetables for antioxidants. Fish oil and other omega-3 sources may support normal skin and coat condition, but they should not be presented as preventing or treating skin disease. Discuss persistent dryness or cracking with your veterinarian.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Xoloitzcuintle Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Xoloitzcuintle? Dog Health AI
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
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Locally owned and operated
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Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
3-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.