The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-queen-tlee) or Xolo comes from Mexico. Archaeological evidence indicates that Xolos accompanied man on his first migrations across the Bering Straits in the northernmost part of the Pacific.
Xolo has a reputation as a healer inferred from the Aztec Indian god Xolotl and Itzcuintli and the breed's innate warm skin has been used by remote villagers in Mexico and Central America for curing ailments like rheumatism, asthma, toothache, and insomnia. Xolos were also believed to ward off evil spirits and intruders that ancient villagers bred them as guard animals.
Today, Xolos are bred for companionship and guard dogs. Although considered "hairless", Xolos require regular grooming with a good wash and rinse to rid their skin of dirt and grime. Unlike other breeds with thick or curly fur, Xolos can take only light or no brushing, but a body wipe to smooth out their skin keeps their coat in healthy condition.