There aren’t nearly as many breeds of dogs from Mexico as there are from other countries. However, the handful that did originate there are truly unique. And with this Mexican dog breeds list, you can quickly get to know each one of these special dogs.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world and also one of the most well-known worldwide. It’s named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua where it was discovered in the 1850s. However little is known about the actual history of the breed before that time.
Because of its small size and low exercise requirements, it makes an ideal pet for those who live in an apartment or with limited space. There are two varieties of Chihuahua, the long-haired and the short-haired. And similar to other Mexican dog breeds Chihuahuas are very sensitive to cold weather.
This is especially true of the short-haired variety. The Chihuahua is the true definition of a lapdog and it is happiest when sitting or lying on its owner’s lap. Its function is strictly as a companion and it typically forms a strong bond with one individual in particular.
Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog is a hairless toy breed. Despite its name, the Chinese Crested Dog is not considered to be one of the Chinese dog breeds. However, it was carried on Chinese merchant ships because of its ratting ability and since it didn’t have hair it couldn’t carry any fleas on board.
While it is thought by some to have originated in Africa, others suggest it comes from Mexico. The reasoning behind this is that it does have a proven genetic link to the Mexican Hairless dog. So it’s thought to possibly have been a cross between the Mexican Hairless Dog and the Chihuahua.
This would explain both its small size and lack of hair. There are actually two types, the hairless and the powderpuff. The hairless variety does have long smooth hair, but only on its head, ears, lower legs, and tail. In contrast, the powderpuff has long hair covering its entire body.
Mexican Hairless Dog
The Mexican Hairless Dog is also known as the Xoloitzcuintli or simply the Xolo for short. It is completely hairless except for small tufts of hair on its forehead and on its tail. Because it doesn’t have a coat to shed, it’s considered one of the hypoallergenic dog breeds.
Today it functions mainly as a companion but also because of its tendency to bark, as a watchdog. In the past, the Xolo was actually eaten as food and sacrificed during religious ceremonies. Because its skin was warm to the touch it also helped to keep its owner’s bed warm on cold nights.
Interestingly this breed is born pink and dogs get darker in color as they age. Despite having many excellent characteristics the Xolo is quite rare. This is likely due to the fact that many people aren’t attracted to its looks. Like other hairless and Mexican dog breeds Xolos are easily affected by cold temperatures.
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