Where on earth did these strange looking naked dogs come from?!

• The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "Show-low-eet-squint-lee ")
  is an ancient breed of dog, with both hairless and coated features.
• Their name is derived from two words in the Aztec language: named after the Aztec Indian god, Xolotl, and itzcuintli, which means “dog”. Dog with spiritual powers.
• They trace their roots back to the ancient ruins from the Pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico as well as the countries of Central and South America.
• In Colima, Mexico, archaelogical excavations of Toltec, Aztec, and Mayan tombs have unearthed Xolo imagery in many forms, dating as far back as 3500 years.
• Xolos are the only breed of dog for which an ancient civilization developed an art form devoted solely to it. This is because Xolos were ascribed healing and mystical, spiritual powers throughout their history.
• The Xolo dogs were often buried with their masters in the belief that would guide their spirits to heaven.
• Xolos were used as “bed warmers” for arthritis like symptoms. Because of its hairlessness, the Xolo feels very warm to the touch. Sometimes under the covers, Toaster is so hot I think she could fry an egg.

Characteristics

• There are two types of Xolos - hairless and powder puff, the latter of which usually ranges from a short velvet-like coat, like Toaster, to a lot of long fur! Coated Xolos are not hypo-allergenic, but generally do not shed much if they are short coated. Except maybe at the vet’s office.
  Xolos exude extraordinary body heat because of their lack of body hair (or short coat and naked belly) and can act as a sort of living hot water bottle for sufferers of chronic muscle pain.
• Heating pad temperature: is similar to a mild to moderate heating pad. Toaster is not as hot as Pink, but Toasty enough! For typical use, I have her around my neck about 20-45 mins.
• The “naked/hairless” hairless is naturally hypoallergenic, odorless, and flealess, making excellent pets for anyone with asthma or allergies. La Rosita (Pink) is Toaster’s female hairless of her first and only litter in 2002.
• Heating pad temperature: similar to a moderate to high heating pad. For typical use, I have her around my neck about 15-30 mins. Except when she won’t get off.
• Xolos are highly intelligent and intuitive. Calm but alert, they do not bark without reason. They usually bond with one person and are extremely devoted, making them excellent service dogs. Toaster’s grandson who was placed with a woman with FMS in California named him Shadow-take a guess why?
• Xolos come in three sizes: Toy (La Rosita/Pink) Miniature (Toaster), and Standard (not featured).