A hairless Chihuahua is probably a dog in trouble. Whether its hairlessness stems from a genetic defect called aleopecia (apparently caused originally in Chihuahuas by trying to overbreed them for blue coats) or a chronic case of mange, it is not desirable. Aleopecia, a primarily genetic disorder, seems to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own hair follicles and suppresses or stops hair growth. It won’t hurt the dog other than making him or her even more susceptible to the cold, but it is not an acceptable trait in a show dog. A chronic skin disorder makes for a miserable dog with a shortened life, and a really high lifetime vet bill.
The Mexican Hairless, another dog from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, is not a Chihuahua at all. The breed’s name is actually Xoloitzxuintli, and is pronounced “show-low-eats-queen-tlee”, according to the American Kennel Club website. They have a sleek body, almond-shaped eyes, and pointed bat-like ears. Some have hair on their faces, feet, tail, and the nape of their necks. Some have a full but very short coat, which is hypo-allergenic.
Their history is very similar to the Chihuahua’s, involving pictures and carvings and artifacts in Mexican archaeological sites, intimations of power to guide the dead, and centuries of association with the peoples of the region. They were raised for and served as food more often than the smaller breed, understandably, and may still be the main course for some rural dinners. The Spanish reported great feasts where large numbers of dogs were served in the 16th century. The meat of the Xolo is still reputed to have healing powers.
The breed ranges in size from 22″ to less than 13″, and in weight from 31 pounds down to 9 pounds. They are classified by size into Standard, Miniature, and Toy. It is possible that the Toy Xolo is being mistaken for a Chihuahua sometimes, as they share many physical features and colors.
Care for the Mexican Hairless like you would any other dog. Get them their shots and parasite treatments. Make sure they have good food and clean water, access to shelter and shade if they are outside. Train / discipline them kindly and consistently; a well-trained dog is a happy dog. Give them lots of attention. Most of the hairless dogs are blue or black, but spots of pigment-free skin are not unusual and should be treated with sunblock. They are far more resistant to temperature extremes than Chihuahuas are.
Xolo are somewhat primitive dogs; although they like people and try hard to please, they don’t take to bullying or harsh training, becoming aggressive or fearful. Consistent, gentle handling brings excellent results. With above average intelligence, loyalty, and high sensitivity to their masters’ moods, the Xolo make excellent watch dogs. The larger dogs are good guard dogs, taking aggressiveness cues from their masters’ uneasiness. Unlike Chihuahuas, they are calm and good with children.
Xoloitzxuintli are not currently registerable with the American Kennel Club. The Foundation Stock Service maintains a record of the breed, and the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America is working toward full inclusion of all three size categories, both coated and hairless, in the AKC registry. FSS registered dogs may show at AKC events.
