November 27, 2017—The Mexican hairless dog has a history as long and twisting as its traditional name: xoloitzcuintli. The breed was developed in ancient Mesoamerica, where it was raised both as a companion and a food source. Xolos also played a role in the afterlife of ancient Mesoamericans, including the Maya and Aztec, as guides for souls traveling to the Underworld. Later almost eaten to extinction by European colonists, xolos received recognition as a breed in the twentieth century, and for a short time were a fashionable variety. Now they're established as the national dog of Mexico. For a pet some might find less than beautiful, that's a real triumph of the underdog. READ:
This Hairless Mexican Dog Has a Storied, Ancient Past
