X-o-l-o-i-t-z-c-u-i-n-t-l-i

Only one dog would be able to boast a lineage from ancient Mayan times. This dog is called Xolo for short to avoid the inevitable tongue twisting. This breed comes from a long line of hairless pooches from the Mayan and Aztec times. It's name is from two words: "Xolotl" an Aztec god and "itzcuintli" meaning dog. This dog breed was considered as a healing being since it is named after a god. Ironically, those who believe in its protection use to actually eat the dog for healing purposes. There was a time that this breed was at the edge of extinction. The Xolo made a comeback years ago and has since gained a constant following of good-hearted breeders who breed for the love of the species. This amazing hairless dog breed is one of the very few dogs that do not cause problems for owners who suffer from Asthma attacks.

The Xolo comes in 3 sizes namely, miniature, intermediate and standard. The 2 latter standards can provide adequate protection, while the miniature is a companionship dog. This dog has almond shaped eyes, large bat-like ears and long neck. Its nose color must match the dogs over all coloring- dark for dark skin, brown or rose nose for blond and bronze skin and spotted for spotted dogs. Its hairlessness is a distinctive trait though there are a number of these breeds that have tufts of hair atop their heads. They are also the breed that are lacking in molars and pre-molars.

The Xolo's are known to be wary of strangers but not aggressive. Since these dogs are also guard dogs, they are fiercely loyal to one master but are very dedicated to other members of the family. These dogs have a keen sense of detecting owner's need for protection. Though they shouldn't be mistaken as attack dogs, they are more like alarm dogs. There are times though that Xolo tend to define its territory as anywhere its owner goes, even in other people's homes. When the Xolo's overstep their boundaries they are not harmful, they just exhibit territorial behavior like rigid stance while kicking its hind legs backwards.

This dog is calm in a family setting and will even give itself up to gentle tugging and hugging. What this dog cannot tolerate is noisy or stressful surroundings; the Xolo is sensitive to human undercurrents. As a family dog, the Xolo is very affectionate and playful. At times the Xolo will tag along anywhere, especially with a favorite family member. Xolo's have been termed as "velcro dog" because of their attachment to their master.

Xolo's are chosen for their hairless features or near hairless features since there is a misconception that no-hair means less maintenance. As all misconceptions go, first-time buyers or impulsive dog purchasers will be floored with the care Xolo's skin need. Hairless or not, having a pet means caring for the animal. An amazing dog breed, but if your interested in owning one be sure to read up on how to take care of them first.

This article was submitted by the authors at pet super store which is an excellent site for all sorts of pet supplies - dog fences from tri-tronics and dogtra.