The Mexican Hairless Dog, or Xoloitzcuintli is a rare breed of dog that originates from Mexico.  They have been native to this area since Pre-Columbian times; it is believed they could date back for more than 3500 years.  Mexican Hairless Dogs come in three sizes, standard, miniature, and toy. 

    Mexican Hairless Dogs range in size from 10 to 50 pounds.  They have a sleek, almost hairless body.  The hairlessness is a dominant trait to the breed, although coated dogs sometimes do occur.  Hair often is found on their forehead, and sometimes the neck and feet.  Oddly, many Mexican Hairless Dogs are missing several teeth.

    Records suggest that originally the Mexican Hairless Dog was used for food consumption, and yet were also kept as pets.  The Aztecs considered it a sacred animal because it was believed they were needed to help them travel safely to the underworld.  The Aztec myth is that the God Xolotl made the Xoloitzcuintli from a sliver of the Bone of Life from which man himself was made.  Xolotl gave them as a gift, with the instruction to guard it with their life and in exchange the Mexican Hairless Dog would guide them through the world of death, towards the Evening Star in the Heavens.

    To this day the Mexican people believe the Mexican Hairless Dog has healing qualities.  Some cultures ate the meat of this breed for ritual and medicinal purposes, and this act is still practiced in some areas of rural Mexico.  The Mexican Hairless Dog was and still is used as a bed warmer, although these dogs' temperature is no higher than that of a normal dog the lack of fur makes them feel warmer.

    The Mexican Hairless is a very intelligent dog; they bond well and are affectionate with family.  They get along well with children, and make good watchdogs, only barking when necessary.  The Mexican Hairless Dog is unique as it is a natural vegetarian, but they can be converted to meat quite easily.