The Xolo is considered a hardy dog with no particular health problems and no breed specific genetic issues. As with most hairless dogs missing teeth are prevalent, due to the gene for hairlessness, but this does not alter them being able to eat like any other canine.
The skin of the Xolo is tough and although protective, Xolos require regular attention to the skin with baths, loofahs and lotions applied to keep the skin healthy. Every Xolo is different some will require moth bathing, some more sloughing and some more lotion, this is also true for the age stages Xolo pass through. It is important to pay special attention to the ears and feet, bathing will help to open the skin pores and prevent blackheads and pimples.
Some Xolo are born with hair (Coated Xolos) usually short hair and no undercoat, the coated Xolo is the same in every aspect the hairless Xolo, but with hair and they have full dentition. The beauty, character and temperament are exactly the same.
Hairless Xolo are often missing teeth usually pre molars, but other teeth maybe missing or rotated) this is not considered a showing penalty. Xolo ears are large and open to the elements, they must be cleaned weekly to prevent build up, it is also advisable to clip the Xolo nails each week to prevent growth of any length which may off balance the toe and lead to gait problems.
Xolos that have fair or white patches on their body should have a form of sun protection applied, whether a sun coat or sunscreen. The winter months Xolo require a dog coat and at times two, this must be removed every day and the skin checked for buildup of dirt and debris that may affect the skin.
Xolos are unique in that they prefer a raw vegie chew rather than a rawhide chew and some fruits are high on the Xolo want list! This is of great benefit to the teeth and keeps them clean. Always feed a high quality commercial dog kibble and make sure at least half the food is fed dry, what you feed the dog is very evident in its presentation as what you feed is what you see.
I feed all dogs at Wazzat Black Hawk and have found this product to be the best for the breed, they energy levels and skin condition is a reflection of this high quality product.
The Xolo is a free whelper and make excellent mothers with their primitive and strong survival skills. Overall the Xolo is considered a healthy breed relatively free from many breed ailments that can affect other breeds, I would guess this is due to the breed being from natural selection rather than made to suit mans needs.
Xolos do however need to be closely monitored when anesthetized, due to the non-ability to regulate body temperature freely.
Anesthesia of the Xoloitzcuintle by Greg Coleman, DVM – Courtesy Patty Hoover Besito Xolos
Anesthetic procedures involving the Xolo are similar to those involving other breeds of dogs. It is important to assure that the dog is in good health and is able to withstand the stresses of anesthesia. This certainly involves a good pre anesthetic physical exam, and in selected cases, further examination such as blood work, x-rays, etc. is warranted.
The minimum amount of medication that allows the procedure to be performed correctly is always best. Some treatments can be done under a light tranquilizer, while others require general anesthesia. The pain involved, the length of the procedure and the effect of movement are all factors that must be considered in choosing the type of restraint used.
When general anesthesia is required, we have had success in using the minimum of pre anesthetic sedation, inducing with isoflurane and oxygen via a face mask, and maintaining with isoflurane. The Xolos seem to handle this very well and recover quickly.
Monitoring both during anesthesia and after recovery cannot be over emphasized. Xolos are prone to hypothermia due to their lack of a hair coat and supplemental heat should be provided. Be careful with heating pads, etc. as the same lack of a hair coat also makes them susceptible to burns. Temperature controlled cages seem to work very well. Intravenous fluids before, during and after anesthesia help to maintain circulation and temperature.
