Dogs, like humans, come from all over the world. For example, the Australian Shepherd originated from the United States, the Chow Chow from China, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel from the United Kingdom and the Boerboel from South Africa. There are also a handful of breeds from Mexico. Here are 5 Mexican dog breeds you may not have known about:
1. Calupoh
The Calupoh, also known as the Mexican Wolfdog, is a rare Mexican breed developed in the 1990s. It's a hybrid created by crossbreeding wild wolves with dogs. Because of this, they look quite similar to wolves with dark brown or black fur and are large, with males growing up to 30 inches tall. They have a lean, muscular body frame and long legs that give them great agility and speed. They are loyal to their pack, loving to their family and aloof to strangers. Their territorial instincts make them excellent guard dogs, but they are also used as shepherds and companion dogs.
2. Chamuco (Mexican Pit Bull)
The Chamuco, also known as the Mexican Pit Bull, is the most muscular dog breed originating from the country. They were created by crossbreeding Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Terriers, American Bulldogs and Mexican Bulldogs. They look like the American Pit Bull, but are extremely rare and nearly extinct. Unfortunately, Chamuco dogs are mostly bred for illegal dog fighting. Breeding them is discouraged, despite their potential to be great companion pets with training and socialization. In loving homes, they are affectionate, friendly and involved with their family (especially children). They are also confident, protective and intelligent, making them great guard dogs.
3. Chinese Crested Dog
It may be surprising given the name, but the Chinese Crested Dog does have origins in Mexico in addition to China. According to researchers, this breed is an ancestor of Mexico's most ancient breeds - the Xoloitzcuintli or Mexican Hairless Dog (detailed below). Researchers think there's a chance that early ancestors were imported to China, where further breeding resulted in the Chinese Crested we see today. This toy breed is an affectionate, playful dog that loves the company of its family. The breed can be hairless or "powderpuff," which means they have a soft and silky coat. Interestingly, both varieties are considered hypoallergenic.
4. Chihuahua
The most famous and popular Mexican dog breed is the Chihuahua. It is the smallest dog breed in the world, standing only 6 to 10 inches tall and weighing just 3 to 7 pounds. Despite their small size, they have tend to have big attitudes. Chihuahua personalities vary by the individual, with some being shy or timid and others outgoing and fearless. They are typically intelligent, loyal, affectionate, healthy dogs that come in a wide variety of colors and coat types.
5. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient Mexican breed dating back to the 1300-1500s. They were considered sacred by the Aztecs and bred to be watch dogs and companions. Interestingly, not all of the breed's dogs are actually hairless. Those with hair on their bodies have a sparse coat with short, flat fur. Even the hairless dogs often feature some fur on their head that looks like a mohawk. The Xoloitzcuintli is usually affectionate, devoted and protective of their family but can be aloof to strangers. They come in three sizes (toy, miniature and standard) and are high-energy dogs that require a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behavior.