How Much Does a Xoloitzcuintli Cost?

Last Updated on December 27, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

If you’re a fan of the popular Pixar movie called Coco, then you surely know the hyperactive dog that spends most of the time with the main character throughout the movie.

Xoloitzcuintli (show-low-eets-kweent-li) is a Mexican-native dog, and its name comes from the Aztec word itzcuintli which translates to “dog”, and the Aztec Indian god called Xolotl.

What’s particularly interesting about this breed is that it is considered one of the first breeds that resulted from natural evolution and not through human intervention.

Although it comes in 2 different varieties, it is usually described as a Mexican hairless dog. One of the two varieties is covered in hair, having a small, soft coat all over its body.

The Xolo can be described as a moderate breed of dog in all aspects. It is a great goard dog, very calm in nature especially as it reaches maturity, extremely smart, but also very loyal.

How Much Does a Xoloitzcuintli Cost?

You will likely need a lot of persistence to find and then buy a Xolo dog, as this isn’t a very usual breed. Most of the time, you will have to book a pup from a reputable breeder, and then wait for the litter to be ready for sale.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Cavachon, a Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, or a Boston Terrier.

The Xoloitzcuintli cost will be somewhere between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on several factors, out of which the most important is the pedigree of the pup. Some buyers have also reported finding a dog of this breed for as low as $800, although those dogs came without papers. Nevertheless, just like any other dog, it is not recommended to purchase without any documents to prove its place in the breed.

You can find registered puppies from reputable breeders at the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America or in the American Kennel Club Marketplace. These dogs should come with breed registration and health certificates, although this will depend on the breeder you buy the pup from.

If you need to have the pup shipped to you, then expect to spend on shipping as well, although the cost of shipping pets across the US will differ based on factors like the breed, your location, and the size of the dog. If you have the possibility, have the dog delivered by air, as this will be better for the pet, leading to less stress on the pup. Shipping a dog by air is likely to cost an additional $350 aside from the sale cost. This fee won’t include things like a travel crate or airfare tickets for the dog.

A small cage will cost around $550, while an intermediate cage appropriate for air travel will cost $700 or more. These are special cages that will come equipped with all the needed accessories for smooth travel.

Recurring Costs of Having a Xolo

Although this dog is either hairless or doesn’t shed at all, it is still far from a low-maintenance pet. Here are some very important things to consider when getting a Xoloitzcuintli pup:

Food

Premium quality food will be needed when you’re getting a purebred pup, especially as they require an additional boost of energy. This dog comes in three size varieties: the standard size, with a weight between 30 and 55 pounds, the mini variety, having a weight of 15 to 30 pounds, and the toy size, with a weight of 10 to 15 pounds. As with other breeds of dogs, the amount of food your Xolo needs will depend on its size and its activity levels.

Your usual pup will require food in equal amounts split into about 3 to 4 meals per day. An adult, on the other hand, will require to be fed about two times per day.

You can find commercial quality food that costs between $25 to as high as $120 for a 30-lb bag. You can also feed your pet with homemade food although you should talk to your veterinarian before giving the pet food from around the house.

Grooming

The coated types are relatively easy to look after. Weekly brushing of the short coat is suggested and periodic bathing utilizing a mild soap is needed to keep it as shiny as it can get. Making use of a cloth kept in warm water is recommended to keep the pores clean specifically for the hairless type.

The usual cutting of the nails that is required for other breeds, should also be done for your Xoloitzcuintli. If you don’t know how to do this, get the help of a groomer, that will charge about $10.

Health

This kind of breed is naturally healthy having a life span of 14 to 18 years. These dogs aren’t known to have any particular illnesses, however, it is still essential to be aware of how fragile their skin is. The hairless variety will have to be protected from the sun when outdoors with the help of moderate sunblock.

Periodic vaccinations and check-ups will also have to be considered, and these will cost around $100 including the vaccines and veterinary costs.

Tips for Soon-to-Be Xolo Owners

Training

They are a smart breed so early training for the puppies would be very important. Young Xolos are extremely active and require proper discipline early on.

Xolo breeders begin their training at a young age and will learn faster when you use positive reinforcements. This breed does not respond to harsh approaches. If trained correctly, they can be your best loyal and nimble guard dog.

Exercise

They also require their day-to-day walks to keep their weight in check as weight problems can trigger issues with their joints. They must also be mentally stimulated with toys or just by plain playing with them to prevent mischief when they get tired.

Social Requirements

They really like to be around their family and are great with kids. They constantly need somebody to be with at home all the time. They will crave attention and show their dominant character.

Beware as they do not fit well with complete strangers. That is why early socializing is required for the pups. They will need to be exposed to different environments so they are able to properly adjust.

Rescue/Adoption

Xolos are typically not recommended for novice pet owners as they have particular requirements. So generally, some dogs wind up in shelters. Some previous owners do not know early what they’ll go through when the dogs grow up. They’re a really unique-looking breed but are attentive and caring when correctly dealt with.

You can choose to adopt instead of buying, which will cost you around $300.