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Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) vs. American Hairless Terrier
Following up on an earlier post, I've narrowed down my choice of what
kind of dog is suitable for me. Basically, I've narrowed it down to the Xoloitzcuintli or the American Hairless Terrier. As far as I can tell from looking at pictures of the two, they have almost exactly the same physical structure -- aside from the more common prevalence of uniform darks among Xolo's, I can't tell the difference physically. Can anyone here explain any subtle physical differences? In any event, I'm trying to decide which of these two might be the better pet. According to dogbreedinfo.com, the Xolo's have a longer lifespan (15-20 years) than the AHT's (around 15 years). Dogbreedinfo.com also notes that both breeds are very healthy, and have no genetic health problems. However, some other websites mention that the Xolo suffers from dentite (teeth) problems common among hairless breeds, while the AHT doesn't. Any insights on this? How important is it? While both breeds appear to be very friendly, intelligent, and trainable, it is the Xolo that appears to have a more emotive / bonding description, from what owners say. Other differences are that the Xolo has a 3000 year history, and is essentially unchanged over those 3000 years (being a primitive canine), while the American Hairless Terrier (a mutation of the Rat Terrier) is only a few decades old as a breed, and not officially established yet as an official breed. I find the Xolo's history of religious significance to be interesting. Another factor is that while both seem to be somewhat rare, the Xolo is *extremely* rare (one of the rarest of rare dogs)...information on where to find breeders would be helpful. So, does anyone have any words of advice? |
#2
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Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) vs. American Hairless Terrier
"dh003i" wrote in message oups.com... Following up on an earlier post, I've narrowed down my choice of what kind of dog is suitable for me. Basically, I've narrowed it down to the Xoloitzcuintli or the American Hairless Terrier. As far as I can tell from looking at pictures of the two, they have almost exactly the same physical structure -- aside from the more common prevalence of uniform darks among Xolo's, I can't tell the difference physically. Can anyone here explain any subtle physical differences? Well, size for one thing - Xolo size varies widely and the ones I've met have been significantly larger than Rat Terriers. I've never met an AHT but I've met many rats and I'd assume they are pretty much the same in terms of temperament, which is generally mild for a terrier but still very terrier-like. The Xolos that I have met have all been rescues, so no way of knowing if the temperaments were the norm, but they were very independent and aloof, whereas Ratties are independent but people oriented. It will probably be tough for you to meet many examples of them before deciding but if you can at least meet some Ratties and decide if you like them, that would be a step in the right direction. Also, check the ARBA website for shows near you or breeder referrals. What made you decide on a hairless breed? Christy |
#3
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Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) vs. American Hairless Terrier
Christy,
Thanks for the response. I'm really surprised that all of the Xolos you've met have been rescues, since they're such rare breeds. I decided on a hairless dog for the ease-of-maintenance and cleanliness factor. They don't shed hair, and they don't require frequent grooming (they just require occasional bathing; and to be protected from extreme cold / sun). I also like their appearance. They are wonderfully sculpted specimens, and their grace is fully on display, like an Incan / Mayan or Egyptian statue. That's another thing I like about them. They remind me of Ancient civilizations in South America and Egypt. Also, could you tell the difference between them physically when looking at them? I can't. Christy wrote: Well, size for one thing - Xolo size varies widely and the ones I've met have been significantly larger than Rat Terriers. I've never met an AHT but I've met many rats and I'd assume they are pretty much the same in terms of temperament, which is generally mild for a terrier but still very terrier-like. The Xolos that I have met have all been rescues, so no way of knowing if the temperaments were the norm, but they were very independent and aloof, whereas Ratties are independent but people oriented. It will probably be tough for you to meet many examples of them before deciding but if you can at least meet some Ratties and decide if you like them, that would be a step in the right direction. Also, check the ARBA website for shows near you or breeder referrals. What made you decide on a hairless breed? Christy |
#4
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Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) vs. American Hairless Terrier
"dh003i" wrote in message ups.com... Thanks for the response. I'm really surprised that all of the Xolos you've met have been rescues, since they're such rare breeds. Yep, but I live in Southern California, and since they are a Mexican breed, they do end up in shelters occasionally. My sister is one of the very few rescue contacts for hairless dogs and she's rescued a few Xolos as well as a litter of Peruvian Inca Orchid puppies (another rare nekked breed.) I decided on a hairless dog for the ease-of-maintenance and cleanliness factor. They don't shed hair, and they don't require frequent grooming (they just require occasional bathing; and to be protected from extreme cold / sun). I also like their appearance. They are wonderfully sculpted specimens, and their grace is fully on display, like an Incan / Mayan or Egyptian statue. That's another thing I like about them. They remind me of Ancient civilizations in South America and Egypt. Also, could you tell the difference between them physically when looking at them? I can't. Like I said, I've never seen an AHT in person, but the Xolos I have met have not been similar to Rat Terriers structurally. More like a Doberman mix, only bald. Christy |
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