Mexican Hairless & Chinese Crested: Two Hairless Dogs, Two Very Different Stories
When most people see a hairless dog, they often assume it is a Chinese Crested. But did you know there is another fascinating hairless breed with a history stretching back thousands of years?
Meet the Mexican Hairless, or Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo), and the Chinese Crested.
Although these two breeds may look similar at first glance, they have very different histories, personalities and physical characteristics. Both are also much more than simply "dogs without hair."
The Mexican Hairless – The Ancient Xolo
The Mexican Hairless, officially known as the Xoloitzcuintli, is one of the oldest known dog breeds in the Americas. Archaeological evidence places the breed's history back more than 3,000 years.
The Xolo was highly regarded by ancient Mexican civilizations, including the Aztecs. The name comes from Xolotl, the Aztec god associated with fire and lightning, and itzcuintli, meaning dog.
The Xolo was believed to have spiritual significance and was associated with guiding souls to the afterlife. It was also believed to have healing abilities, partly because its warm, hairless body made it feel like a living hot-water bottle.
Today, the Xolo is recognised as Mexico's national dog and remains a unique and relatively uncommon breed.
Not every Xolo is hairless
One of the interesting things about the breed is that there are actually hairless and coated Xolos.
The hairless variety may have small amounts of hair on the head, feet and tail, while the coated variety has a short coat covering the body.
Xolos also come in three sizes – toy, miniature and standard, making the breed quite different from many people’s idea of a Mexican Hairless.
The Chinese Crested – More Than Just a Funny Hairstyle
The Chinese Crested is probably one of the most recognisable dogs in the world.
With its mostly hairless body, fluffy crest of hair on its head, feathered ears, furry feet and plumed tail, it certainly has a distinctive appearance.
Despite its name, the exact origins of the Chinese Crested are not completely certain. There is no definitive evidence that the breed actually originated in China. One theory is that its ancestors were African hairless dogs that were later reduced in size.
Chinese traders and sailors are believed to have carried these little dogs on ships, where they helped control vermin. Over time, the dogs travelled to different parts of the world through port cities and trade routes.
And there is another important fact :
The Chinese Crested also comes in a fully coated variety.
This variety is called the Powderpuff and has a soft, flowing coat covering the entire body.
So, What Is the Difference?
Although both breeds can be hairless, their appearance can help tell them apart.
The Xoloitzcuintli:
Usually has a smooth, bare body.
May have a small amount of hair on the head, tail and feet.
Has a more robust, athletic appearance.
Comes in three sizes.
Has both hairless and coated varieties.
Has a long history in ancient Mexico.
The Chinese Crested:
Has a distinctive crest of hair on the head.
Usually has furry feet and a hairy tail.
Is a small toy breed.
Comes in hairless and Powderpuff varieties.
Has a fine-boned, elegant appearance.
Has a long association with sailors and trading ships.
Hairless Does NOT Mean Maintenance-Free
One of the biggest misconceptions about hairless dogs is that they require less care.
In reality, hairless dogs can require extra attention.
Without a normal coat protecting the skin, they can be more exposed to sunlight, cold weather, dryness and skin irritation. Their skin needs to be monitored and cared for appropriately.
Hairless dogs can also develop skin problems such as clogged pores or acne, particularly when young. Their skin should be kept clean without excessive bathing or harsh products that can remove the skin's natural oils.
Sun protection is particularly important. Depending on the dog's skin pigmentation and the amount of sun exposure, protective clothing or a suitable canine sunscreen may be appropriate.
And when the weather is cold?
That famous lack of hair suddenly becomes very important.
A hairless dog can get cold just like any other animal, so appropriate protection and a warm environment are essential.
What About Their Teeth?
Another fascinating connection between hairlessness and genetics is dentition.
Hairlessness in Xolos and Chinese Cresteds is linked to genetic changes that can also affect the development of teeth. Hairless Xolos, for example, may have missing or abnormal teeth, whereas coated Xolos generally have a full set of teeth.
This is one of the reasons regular dental checks are particularly important for hairless dogs.
Are They Hypoallergenic?
This is another common misconception.
A hairless dog is not automatically a completely hypoallergenic dog.
Allergies to dogs are not caused solely by the hair itself. Allergens can be found in things such as dander, saliva and other proteins.
So, if someone suffers from allergies, spending time around the specific breed before bringing one home is a sensible idea.
Their Personalities Are Different Too
It is easy to assume that two hairless breeds must have similar personalities.
They don't.
The Chinese Crested is generally known for being affectionate, social and very people-oriented. They often enjoy being close to their humans and can form strong bonds with their families.
The Xolo, on the other hand, can be more reserved with strangers and is known for its loyalty and alertness. It can have stronger guardian instincts than the Chinese Crested.
Of course, every dog is an individual. Genetics, early socialisation, training and life experiences all influence a dog's personality.
Two Unusual Breeds With One Very Important Message
The Mexican Hairless and Chinese Crested may look unusual, but there is nothing "wrong" with being different.
Their lack of hair is a natural genetic characteristic of their breeds. It does, however, mean that owners need to understand their particular needs.
They still need :
Love and companionship
Dental care
Protection from excessive sun
Protection from cold
Appropriate skin care
Exercise and enrichment
Responsible ownership
Regular veterinary care
And perhaps most importantly, they need to be appreciated for the dogs they are – not simply for their unusual appearance.
Whether it is the ancient Mexican Xoloitzcuintli or the unmistakable Chinese Crested, these dogs remind us that there is no single definition of what a dog should look like.
Sometimes being different is exactly what makes them special.
Did you know?
Both the Xoloitzcuintli and Chinese Crested can have hairless and coated varieties, and the genetic mechanism behind hairlessness means that breeding cannot simply produce an endless line of hairless puppies.
At Orkney & Klerksdorp Animal Shelter, we believe that every dog deserves to be understood, cared for and given the chance to find the right home – whatever they look like.
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