by Arlene Prunkl
When I advertise our shelter’s Mexican rescue dogs or puppies for adoption, I’m frequently asked, “What breed are they?” It’s a reasonable question, and I took a little time to research some answers.
History
In Mexico, street dogs are commonly known as village dogs or callejeros (“street dogs”). I like to call them Meximutts, a term I first heard from one of the rescues I support here in Puerto Escondido. The fact is that our Mexican street dogs or puppies are never just one breed. They typically have not a gene pool but a gene ocean, mixing characteristics of the ancient Mexican Xōlōitzcuintle, the chihuahua, terrier, labrador, spaniel, poodle, dachshund, beagle, German shepherd, pit bull, boxer, cattle dog, Dobermann, husky, and many more. Some of our adopters have DNA tests done on their Meximutts, and the results are always enlightening, not to mention fun. This vast mix could be called a “super-breed” because their lack of inbreeding creates a survival-of-the-fittest genetic lineage, and over generations intelligence, hardiness, and good health have come to predominate.
The Xōlōitzcuintle, or Xolo (pronounced “sho-lutz-quint-lay” and “cholo”), also known as the Mexican hairless dog (though not all are hairless), with its signature large upright ears, deserves a special mention. It is considered one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds in the world. Archaeological evidence dates the breed to between 3,500 and 5,500 years ago. This breed was revered as a sacred dog by the Aztecs, Toltecs, and Maya and was believed to ward off evil spirits. Although highly valued as hunting companions and guardians, Xolos were also unfortunately sacrificed and eaten during ceremonies. The breed’s Nahuatl name—which is in the language of the Nahua peoples, including the Aztec—comes from the name of the god who created them, Xolotl, and the Nahuatl word for dog, “itzquintli.” Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera helped revive the breed; they kept Xolos and often incorporated them into their art. After nearly becoming extinct earlier in the 20th century, the Xolo now holds a revered place in Mexican culture and is considered Mexico’s national dog.
Appearance
Mexican street dogs range in size from tiny to huge and often have black, brown, tan, or brindle colouring. Their coats can be short-haired and sleek or shaggy, wiry, or curly, but short hair predominates, as well as large, pointy ears, likely in part because of the strong Xolo genes. The sheer degree of variety in sizes, colors, builds, and coat types is a marvel, and no two puppies look exactly the same. Even siblings in litters born from the same mother can look different because, while not exactly common, it’s quite possible for them to have different fathers. Dogs are a species in which the female produces multiple eggs while in heat, so this phenomenon, called superfecundation, is possible if a female mates with multiple males.
Temperament
Over several millennia, Mexican street dogs have evolved to be robust, adaptable, highly intelligent animals. They tend to be human-friendly, good-natured, and food-motivated, but if not socialized to humans they can also be wary and resource protective. Their resilient genetic makeup allows them to survive on the streets better than most other types of dogs, especially purebreds. Because of all these traits, they typically make excellent pets. And because of their evolution through natural selection, if provided with a secure home, socialization, exercise, and a healthy diet, they are not prone to the various genetic health issues that affect other dogs.
Consider adopting a Mexican rescue dog—you won’t be disappointed. I don’t know of a single adopter of one of our dogs or puppies who has been disappointed. Though there’s no official data on this, anecdotally, every Meximutt parent I know says they could swear their doggies are aware of just how fortunate they are to have been adopted, and they show their gratitude by being the best possible canine pet anyone could want.
FIND YOUR FUREVER FRIEND
Warning: Adopting from our shelter may lead to uncontrollable tail wags, an overflowing heart, and a lifetime of snuggles. But hey, someone’s gotta risk it, right?
We have experience facilitating international adoptions to Canada and the United States, as well as to other countries.
No matter where you live, adopting a rescued dog is a rewarding experience that will change your life and the life of a deserving pup!
Imagine a dog, alone and scared, abandoned on the streets of Mexico. Their future uncertain, filled with hunger, fear and sickness.