Xoloitzquintle

BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY: The origin of these dogs goes far back into history. The breed is also known by the name "Mexican Hairless Dog". Some time ago, the natives ate their flesh which was highly prized. The breed was regarded as the earthly representative of the god "Xolotl", from which his name obviously originates. His task was to accompany the souls of the dead to their eternal resting place.
GENERAL APPEARANCE: The most important characteristic and peculiarity is the complete or almost complete lack of any hair, with a smooth and soft skin. The body has harmonious proportions, chest is broad, rib cage roomy, limbs and tail long. The build is reminiscent of a Manchester Terrier.
IMPORTANT PROPORTIONS: Length of body in proportion to height at withers = 10 to 9, thus slightly longer than height at withers. Dogs with long narrow bodies and short limbs are down graded in their assessment.
BEHAVIOUR / CHARACTER: Calm, quiet dog, cheerful, attentive, alert. Suspicious towards strangers, good watchdog, excellent pet.
HEAD / CRANIAL REGION: Skull: Commonly referred as the "wolf" type, the skull is broad and strong, yet very elegant. It tapers gradually towards the muzzle. The occiput is barely pronounced.
SKIN: Because the breed has little to no hair, the skin is of special significance. It is smooth and very sensitive to the touch. It appears warmer as it directly radiates heat. The dog perspires through the feet (the pads and interdigital membranes) and therefore hardly ever pants.
COAT / TEXTURE: Although, called a Hairless Dog, they produce some short, bristly and dense hair of any colour on the forehead and neck. This hair is never, either in length or in its soft texture, similar to the crest hair of a Chinese Crested Dog (or Tai-Tai). Coarse hair is often found on the feet and towards the tip of the tail.

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