Health

Xoloitzcuintli health

Mexico

The Mexican Hairless Dog is vigorous and has overall robust health. However, its lack of coat makes it more sensitive to harsh climatic conditions. The breed is considered hypoallergenic.

Longevity

Life expectancy

Its usual life expectancy is between 14 and 16 years.

Build

A robust breed?

Its robustness is average to good. The main vulnerability described lies in its naked skin, less protected against cold, heat and external aggressions.

Watch points

What to watch for

Regular attention must be paid to the condition of the skin and to dentition, in addition to the usual veterinary follow-up.

  • Hip dysplasia : Like many dogs, the Mexican Hairless Dog can have a joint malformation that promotes pain and osteoarthritis, especially in cases of overweight.

  • Eye conditions : An ophthalmological examination of breeding dogs and monitoring of tearing or vision remain useful.

  • Patellar luxation : Common in small dogs, it manifests as an intermittent abnormal gait.

  • Periodontal disease : Tartar and dental loosening are major points of vigilance in small sizes.

Climate

Cold and heat tolerance

The absence of hair reduces its tolerance to harsh temperatures. It is therefore advisable to limit its exposure to cold as well as to high heat and to adapt outings to weather conditions.

Weight

Tendency to gain weight

Its tendency to gain weight is moderate. Portions must be adapted to its size, its age and its level of physical activity.

Daily life

Good habits to keep it healthy

  • Regularly examine the skin and moisturize it with a suitable cream.
  • Wash the dog at a reasonable frequency with a suitable shampoo.
  • Brush the teeth frequently to limit tartar and bacteria.
  • Trim the claws when they do not wear down naturally.
  • Adapt outings to difficult temperatures.

Vaccination

Xoloitzcuintli vaccines: vaccination schedule

Which vaccines for a Xoloitzcuintli? Like all cats, the Xoloitzcuintli receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Xoloitzcuintli is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.

VaccinePrimary seriesFirst boosterThenWho for?
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core

Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus)

8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months1 yearevery yearAll pets
CoryzaCore

Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus

8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months1 yearevery yearAll pets
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based

Feline leukemia virus

8 weeks · 12 weeks1 yearevery yearOutdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery
RabiesLifestyle-based

Rabies

12 weeks1 yearevery yearMandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based

Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis)

8 weeks · 12 weeks1 yearevery yearCats living in groups, catteries, show cats

Adult Xoloitzcuintli vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.

Which boosters for your Xoloitzcuintli?

Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.

Calculate boosters

Adopting well

Adopting a healthy Xoloitzcuintli

Regular veterinary follow-up must in particular monitor the skin and oral health, two points to which its care pays particular attention.

This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.

Best prevention starts with a good breeder

Choose a breeder who screens their breeding animals for hereditary diseases. We help you find one.

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