Xoloitzcuintli, << shoh loh eets KWIHNT lee, >> often called the xolo or Mexican hairless, is a rare dog breed of Central America. Many xolos are hairless, with smooth and close-fitting skin. Other xolos have short fur. Xolos also have a variety of sizes. The smallest xolos are known as toy xolos. They measure 10 to 14 inches (25 to 36 centimeters) at the shoulder. Miniature xolos are somewhat taller. Standard xolos reach 18 to 23 inches (46 to 58 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. They average 20 to 40 pounds (9 to 18 kilograms). Xolos are generally shades of black, gray, or brown.
Xolos are an ancient breed of dog. The name xoloitzcuintli comes from the language of the Aztec, who ruled a mighty empire in Mexico in the 1400’s and 1500’s. The name refers to the Aztec god Xolotl << SHOH loht >> and the Aztec word for dog. (See also Axolotl. ) Today, people prize xolos as intelligent, calm pets and companions.
