Grooming the Xoloitzcuintli

About the Xoloitzcuintli

While the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-itz-quint-lee), known as the Xolo to his friends, is just now coming back from the brink of obscurity.

The Xoloitzcuintli is actually one of the more ancient breeds of dog. Originating in Mexico, this breed is slowly gaining popularity after nearly becoming extinct only a few decades ago. What makes this particular breed stand out in a crowd, other than a few tufts of hair on its head and tail, is it’s hairless.

While there are versions of the breed with hair (called powder puffs), the hairless Xoloitzcuintli is touted as a non-shedding, odorless and hypoallergenic breed, making it very appealing to dog owners who are tired of vacuuming up tumbleweeds of hair in their homes everyday. However, before you run out and add a Xolo to your household, it’s important to note that even though this breed is almost completely without hair, he still requires a regular dog grooming regiment.

Regular Bathing Needs

Despite the Xolo’s lack of doggy odor, it’s still important your dog receives regular bathing sessions. On the other hand, it’s also important these sessions are not too frequent, as too many baths will strip his skin of its natural oils, causing dry skin, blackheads and acne. About once a month will do just fine.

How to Bathe a Xoloitzcuintli

Use a Gentle Shampoo

Xoloitzcuintlis are bathed just like dogs with hair are. Carefully lather your dog’s body in a gentle shampoo and rinse. It may be a good idea to dilute the shampoo since Xolos tend to have sensitive skin.

Let Conditioner Soak

Once his body is rinsed of shampoo, it’s time to condition. Apply conditioner to his body and allow it to soak for several minutes. This will help replace some of the oils that were stripped from the coat during the shampooing process. Once the time is up, rinse all the conditioner off and lead your dog out of the tub. Drying is as easy as a gentle pat down with a towel.

RELATED: Drying a Dog After a Bath

Moisturize

Now, for a step that is not seen with coated breeds: moisturizing. Xolos need their skin rubbed down with a hypoallergenic, non-oily lotion. Much like conditioner, a moisturizer will keep his skin from drying out.

Since your Xolo was such a good boy during his bath, be sure to reward him with one of his favorite treats. He’s all clean and your bald buddy is ready to take on the world like a brand new dog!

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