How to care for your new Xoloitzcuintli puppy

Getting a new Xoloitzcuintli puppy is both an exciting and stressful time. You can expect to have chewed shoes, torn pillows, and broken valuables, and you should probably get a rug scrubber for all of the accidents on the carpet. While these typical Xolo puppy behaviors are sure to upset you, your puppy’s cute quirks and playfulness will ensure that you won’t stay angry for long. Here are some important ways to take care of your new best friend.

Hygiene

The Xoloitzcuintli can either have a short, smooth coat, or they can be hairless. These Mexican hairless dogs sport mohawks on their heads and have tufts of hair on their feet and at the end of their tails. While this sounds like a case of beauty being in the eye of the beholder, Xolos are actually a tough and sturdy breed with animated facial expressions. You may be wondering what the best course of hygiene treatment is for a mostly hairless dog. It is best to bathe your Xolo weekly to reduce too much skin oil and help with acne. Bathing more often than this can lead to clogged pores. After a bath, you should apply a pet-friendly moisturizing lotion to your Xolo’s skin. 

If your Xolo is going to be in the sun, you should administer pet-safe sunscreen. This is especially important if you and your pooch will be in the sun for long periods of time. Since all dogs enjoy swimming, you may be interested in researching pricing for inground pools in Mobile. This is a great way for your Xolo to burn some energy on a hot summer day!

Xoloitzcuintli training

Because the Xoloitzcuintili is an intelligent dog, training may be an arduous task as they may choose not to cooperate. However, with persistence and positive reinforcement, you will be able to tackle training. Other than housetraining your puppy, the most important thing to focus on is socialization. Xolos are naturally cautious around strangers and have a natural desire to protect their owners. Introducing your puppy to people, other animals, and different places will help them be less timid overall. Socializing should be an ongoing process to keep your Xolo from becoming aggressive towards strangers.

Health

Dogs need routine health checkups and maintenance. You should take your dog to the vet for annual visits. This allows the vet to address concerns before they become serious. You can have your vet clip your Xolo’s nails, or you can do it yourself. You’ll know it’s time for trimming when you hear toenails clicking on the ground. If you start this routine when the Xolo is young, your puppy will be used to it, which will make the process much less scary and stressful.    

While all dogs should be examined for ear mites, lumps, respiratory issues, and injury, Xolos need extra skin inspection. Check for redness, dryness, rashes, and acne. Since their skin is sensitive, you should check with your vet before attempting to remedy skin ailments, as you don’t want to worsen the issue.       

Xoloitzcuintli diet

It is best to feed your Xolo two meals per day based on age, weight, and activity. To help with growth, puppies need more protein in their diets, standard in puppy food. Ensure you are feeding your Xolo puppy the proper food, as adult food can actually cause harm. 

While your vet will let you know if your dog needs to go on a diet, there are physical signs you can look for to determine whether your Xolo is overweight. These indications are as follows: oval-shaped body, swinging stomach, and fat sacs. Devise a weight loss plan before your pal develops diabetes, high blood pressure, or breathing problems. A healthy Xolo can live for nearly 15 years!

Once you get through that initial puppy phase and your Xoloitzcuintli knows that you are the boss, you’ll develop a meaningful relationship. Adopting a puppy is a rewarding and lifelong commitment that requires continued care, love, and attention. True animal lovers know that this isn’t an inconvenience; it’s a blessing.

To adopt a Xoloitzcuintli, check Petfinder.com.To find an American Kennel Club-Registered breeder, visit the AKC Marketplace.

Paisley Hansen is a freelance writer and expert in pets and pet’s health. When she isn’t writing, she can usually be found reading a good book or hitting the gym.

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