Xoloitzcuintli

• Skin care: Xolos produce a protective oil for their skin that can potentially cause acne, so they need frequent baths. Bathe your dog at least every two weeks, and wipe them down with a medicated wipe like Vetnique Dermabliss Grooming Wipes when needed. If their skin is dry or ashy, you can apply a non-oily lotion. And your Xolo will probably need a dog-safe sunscreen like Lucky Pup to protect their skin, too.  
• Brushing: Most Xolos are hairless, so they don’t need brushing. But for Xoloitzcuintli with hair, you can use a bristle brush or a grooming glove once a week.  
• Ear care: Check their ears every day for signs of an ear infection. Talk to your vet about how to clean your dog’s ears if they’re prone to infections.  
• Dental care: Keep your Xolo’s teeth healthy by brushing them every day with a dog-friendly toothpaste and toothbrush. Start when your Xoloitzcuintli puppy is young, so they get used to the routine. 
• Nail care: Trim your dog’s nails once a month. If nails get too long, it can make it painful to walk. You’ll know it’s time for a trim when you can hear your Xolo’s nails tapping on the ground. 

Like all pups, Xolos learn best through positive reinforcement—the use of treats, toys, and praise to reward for good behavior.  

Pup parents must practice patience. The Xoloitzcuintli dog breed is very bright but also independent-minded, so you’ll need to be consistent and kind in your training style. Start with some basic obedience training—like sit, stay, and come—when your Xolo is still a young puppy (or as soon as possible if you adopt them when they’re already an adult).   

Xolos can be wary of new people at first and tend to bark at them, so they’ll need you to teach them that strangers aren’t scary. Invest time in socialization, which involves introducing them to new people, places, and things in a positive manner. This will help grow their confidence and improve their manners. 

Because they love you so much, Xoloitzcuintli can be prone to separation anxiety when left alone. It’s never a bad idea to work with a certified dog trainer or behaviorist who can help curb their anxiety (and any barking that comes along with it).   

Xolos may also be great candidates for crate training, which can help them to feel safe in their own special space in the house. Always make sure to choose the right size crate for your dog. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It should have blankets, bedding, toys, and whatever else you need to make your dog feel cozy and at home.  

There’s no one-size-fits-all nutrition plan for your Xolo, but every dog needs a complete and balanced diet that meets AAFCO standards.  

Choose a diet for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). Your Xoloitzcuintli’s size will also be a factor, as Toy Xolos have different nutritional needs than a Standard Xolo. Your vet can help you choose the best dog food for your unique pup. 

Treats should never be more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories.  

A Xolo may have no interest in running a 5K, but they do still like to get in some movement. However, they are prone to run after anything that catches their attention (like a squirrel), so make sure you keep them on a leash when you’re out for walks, and inside a fenced yard whenever they’re off-leash.  

In general, Xolos need about 30 minutes of exercise in a day. A few neighborhood walks can meet this need. They tend to stop and smell the roses, and they likely are not going to want to join you on your jog.  

They’ll also benefit from interactive toys, puzzles, and games around the house to get their minds buzzing.  

Most importantly, the Xolo loves their person—so if exercise involves you, they’ll be happiest. Don’t leave them outside and expect them to entertain themselves. They’ll likely just dig a hole out of sadness, wishing you were there for a game of fetch instead.  

The most important thing for a Xolo is to have a pet parent who truly understands the meaning of the word companion—these dogs don’t enjoy lots of time alone. They need someone who will be with them for most of the day or take them with them wherever they go.  

Whether they live in an apartment, a house, or anything in between isn’t so important, as long as you’re together.  

However, these pups don’t love the cold (which isn’t surprising, since they usually don’t have fur). If you live in a cold-weather climate, make sure you’re prepared for chilly temps with an array of dog sweaters for your Xolo to choose from and extra cozy dog beds for them to lounge in.  

As long as they’re socialized early, Xolos usually get along with the whole family, including kids and other animals. But each dog is an individual, so your Xoloitzcuintli’s temperament may mean they prefer to be an only child.