Xoloitzcuintli

The usual pronunciation is show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee, with the stress on the fourth syllable. Most owners simply say Xolo, pronounced SHOW-low, which is far easier at the dog park. The name comes from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, and joins the name of the god Xolotl with the word for dog, itzcuintli.

Yes. The hairless trait comes from a single dominant gene, and every living hairless Xolo carries one copy of it plus one normal copy. When two hairless dogs are mated, on average about one puppy in four is coated. Coated Xolos are a full part of the breed, and breeders value them for keeping good teeth and structure in the gene pool.

No dog is fully allergen free, because allergens are found in skin, saliva and urine as well as hair. Hairless Xolos do not shed, however, and some allergic people find them much easier to live with than coated breeds. If allergies are a concern, spend a few hours with adult Xolos before committing, since reactions vary from person to person.

Hairless Xolos, especially those with lighter or pink skin, can burn. Limit midday sun, provide shade and consider a lightweight UV-protective dog shirt for long outings. If you want to use sunscreen, ask your vet to recommend one made for dogs, since some ingredients in human sunscreens are harmful if licked off. Dark-skinned Xolos burn less but still benefit from shade.

All three sizes can live in apartments, because the breed is calm indoors and not a big barker. Toys and miniatures are simply easier to carry up stairs and need less floor space. Standards also do well in flats when they get daily walks and regular off-lead running somewhere safe. Pick the size that matches your activity level and how much dog you want on the sofa.