When you reflect on the country of Mexico, the first things that come to mind are usually the sandy beaches, strong tequila, and fresh avocados. But there is something else that this unique country also gives the rest of the world. There aren’t as many Mexican dog breeds as Germany or France, but these five scrappy breeds have no issue with being in the spotlight and are often the life of the party. Or should we say fiesta?
Top 5 Mexican Dog Breeds:
1. Xoloitzcuintli
- Temperament: Calm, loyal, alert
- Height: 10-14 inches
- Weight: 10-15 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
If you can’t pronounce this difficult name, do as the natives do and call them Xolo for short. The Xolo is a Mexican hairless dog, even though some have fur on their heads that resemble mohawks. A significant benefit to owning one of these breeds is that their lack of fur means they are hypoallergenic and makes the perfect pet for someone with allergies or who simply hates shedding.
Xolo breeds are highly intelligent and graceful and were once known as the dog of ancient Aztec gods. They aren’t as popular today as Chihuahuas but don’t overlook them. They come in a small range of sizes that fit the vastly different needs of individual pet owners.
This Mexican breed comes in three sizes including toy, miniature, and standard. All are relatively small, but they make up for their size with big personalities. Xolos are affectionate towards their owners and always on alert so they can protect their pack. Like a lot of other dog breeds, they enjoy activity and may become destructive without it. This makes them the ideal playmate for children and wears them out so that they come inside and easily relax at the end of each day.
2. Chihuahua
- Temperament: Sassy, graceful
- Height: 5-8 inches
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Chihuahuas are probably the most well-known Mexican dog breeds around the world. These dogs are known for their sassy and spunky personalities, and they bring a lot of personality into any family they’re joining.
Chihuahuas are toy-sized and usually weigh less than 6 pounds. Their fur color varies, and you can find them in white, black, chocolate, fawn, gold, cream, or a mix of them. While there are both long and short hair types, you may also be surprised to know that there are hairless breeds as well. Each one is unique in looks, but all make the perfect little lap dog for dog lovers who enjoy a lengthy cuddle session.
The temperament of chihuahuas is as unique as their coatings. Some are fierce and loud, while others are more timid and quiet. One quality that remains the same is that they are amazingly loyal, and the love for their humans never wavers. Because of their small size and minimal maintenance, you might consider getting a chihuahua if you live in an urban environment or small apartment.
3. Chinese Crested
- Temperament: Affectionate, lively, alert
- Height: 11-13 inches
- Weight: 8-12 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
How is it possible that a dog with “Chinese” in its name is really a Mexican dog breed? It’s hard to believe, but it’s actually true. So, where did these dogs get their name? The Chinese crested evolved from Mexican hairless dogs and were then imported to China, where their breeding continued.
The only hair they have is the long, silky fur on their heads, tails, and feet. Their minimal hair makes them the best of both worlds for someone who enjoys the benefits of hairless dogs while still having some fur to rub on.
The Chinese Crested dogs are some of the most affectionate toy breeds out there. They are genuine homebodies that loved to be pampered and played with. If you have a family and other pets, you might consider buying this breed. They are not aggressive or territorial and get along great with other dogs and cats. Some people shy away from these breeds because of their appearance, but they’re missing out on one of the kindest and most affectionate dog breeds in the world.
4. Mexican Wolfdog
- Temperament: Loyal, stable
- Height: 22-29 inches
- Weight: 50-90 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-18 years
Out of only five Mexican dog breeds, the Mexican Wolfdog, also called the Calupoh, is one of the rarest. These dogs are a crossbreed of wild wolves and a variety of other dog breeds. Because they are derived from wolves, many people find them perfect for a sense of security. These dogs enjoy having jobs and are often used as sheepdogs and cattle dogs, but they make great companions as well.
Mexican Wolfdogs are incredibly agile and strong. Their long legs and muscular bodies give them a lot of endurance, and they require a lot of exercise and yard to run around in. Despite their wild DNA, these dogs have stable temperaments and are relatively easy to train and handle.
Like wolves, these dogs are loyal to their pack and will be equally devoted to your family. If you’re looking for a confident guard dog, this is definitely one to consider.
5. Mexican Pitbull
- Temperament: Confident, friendly, watchful
- Height: 14 inches
- Weight: 25-40 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
The last Mexican breed on our list is the Mexican Pitbull or the Chamuco. This breed is also extremely rare, and they are nearly extinct. These dogs closely resemble American Pits but were created from crossbreeding American and Mexican bulldogs, Staffordshire Terriers, and Pit Bull Terriers.
The true shame about this breed is that they aren’t popular house pets because they were traditionally bred for underground dogfighting despite their extremely friendly and confident nature. Those who do become house pets are amazingly gentle and playful with children and only get aggressive when they aren’t adequately socialized.
Despite these breeds making thousands of families happy, a lot of them that are stuck in Mexican are facing enormous threats. Mexico’s dog population is around 23 million, with 70% of them living on the streets. Because of the large number of homeless dogs, a lot of them are captured and killed every day. Those who are lucky enough to remain free face an even larger uphill battle without access to basic care to help keep them hydrated, full, and disease-free. Because there are no animal rights in Mexico, many of the dogs have animosity towards people, and the vicious cycle of the dog’s life continues.
The living conditions for animals in Mexico often gives them a bad rep. Mexican dog breeds make some of the best pets you could ask for and are equally deserving of warm, loving homes as some of the more popular breeds. If you’re thinking of bringing home one of these dogs, always do your research to ensure they come from reputable breeders.
Mexico brings a lot of spice to our lives in a lot of different ways, and these five dog breeds are no exception. It’s important as a dog lover to know all the breeds the world has to offer. You never know what ones are going to fit perfectly into your lifestyle and become a permanent part of your home that you may have looked over in the past.
Featured Image Credit: studio hoto, Shutterstock
Nicole is the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese cat and Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship) and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts’ knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.
