MEXICO CITY — Mezcal is not your ordinary pet. Hundreds of years ago the Latin American Indigenous group, the Nahuas, believed that a hairless dog like him, a Xoloitzcuintle, was a sacred creature who could guide its deceased master through the underworld.
Dozens gathered on a recent day at Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso in Mexico City for a meet-and-greet with Mezcal and three more “Xolos,” as these slender dogs are locally known. The canines were at the art and culture museum as part of an effort to raise awareness about responsible adoption of Xolo puppies and promoting the significance of the breed.
Marco Ugarte, Associated Press
A Xoloitzcuintle breed dog named Pilon rests during a press conference about the Xoloitzcuintle in art on Jan. 25 in Mexico City.
“Can I touch him?” asked a woman working security for the museum, as she nervously brought her hand closer to the dog’s head
“Absolutely! He loves to be petted,” said Nemiliz Gutiérrez, who was taking care of him for the day.
Her sister and owner of Mezcal, Itzayani Gutiérrez, leads a project promoting the breed to the public.
By reviewing ancient codex and records written after the conquest in 1521, experts have determined the religious relevance of the dogs among Mesoamerican civilizations. That fact isn’t lost on the sisters.
“We are privileged because we have among us some precious jewels of history that are living cultural heritage,” said Itzayani, who also owns a playful Xolo named Pilón.
Experts found that the Nahuas believed these dogs represented the god, Xólotl, the twin brother of deity Quetzalcóatl. While the latter personified life and light, the former was an effigy of the underworld and death. The Xolo, thought to be a creature capable of moving through the darkness, was conceived as a guide for their owner’s soul after dying, wrote historian Mercedes de la Garza in an article published by the National Autonomous University of Mexico.
Burial sites found by archaeologists in central Mexico show the remains of men and dogs lying side by side, which suggests that Xolos may have been sacrificed during their masters’ funeral rites. It was thought to be a way the living could ensure that when the soul of their loved ones reached the river of the underworld, it could reunite with its dog, mount on his back and cross together.
Marco Ugarte – staff, AP
In the Nahuatl language, “Xolo” means “monster,” and though some dislike the physical appearance of these dogs, many find them fascinating. Mezcal’s hairless skin is dark as a shadow. When touched, it feels soft and warm. His teeth are rarely visible, as Xolos don’t bark much. On the recent day, he posed for pictures like a movie star and leaned his head toward visitors wanting to pet him.
Like his predecessors, Mezcal never loses sight of Gutiérrez, who constantly pats the loving dog.
“Xolos are loyal by nature,” said Gutiérrez. “If one is adopted by a family, it will choose a member to stick with.”
The closeness between Xoloitzcuintles and their owners was also noted by the Nahuas, according to experts. To please the gods, some Xolos were sacrificed in order to spare their masters’ lives.
The dogs were killed in those ceremonies by extracting their hearts. This fact distinguished them from any other animal offered in sacrifice, wrote De la Garza.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Which do you like better, cats or dogs? If you chose dogs, you’re in the majority: 74% of adults said they like dogs a lot, while only 41% of adults said the same about cats, according to a poll conducted by the Associated Press. That’s not to suggest dogs are inherently better than their feline friends. Evolutionarily speaking, cats have actually been more successful, with superior hunting skills enabling survival even when food is scarce. On the other hand, science suggests dogs are smarter than cats because their cerebral cortexes contain twice as many neurons.
There may never be a clear answer, but for the majority who prefer man’s best friend, Stacker has compiled a list of the top 35 dog breeds with the most timeless popularity. Using data from the American Kennel Club, we averaged each breed’s level of popularity in 1940 with its popularity in 2021. This analysis excluded any new breed introduced since 1940 and is based on data released on March 15, 2022, the most recent data available. Any ties were decided by the breed that ranked highest in 2021.
Click through to find out if your favorite dog was just as beloved 80 years ago.
You may also like: Things to consider when adopting a pet
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Which do you like better, cats or dogs? If you chose dogs, you’re in the majority: 74% of adults said they like dogs a lot, while only 41% of adults said the same about cats, according to a poll conducted by the Associated Press. That’s not to suggest dogs are inherently better than their feline friends. Evolutionarily speaking, cats have actually been more successful, with superior hunting skills enabling survival even when food is scarce. On the other hand, science suggests dogs are smarter than cats because their cerebral cortexes contain twice as many neurons.
There may never be a clear answer, but for the majority who prefer man’s best friend, Stacker has compiled a list of the top 35 dog breeds with the most timeless popularity. Using data from the American Kennel Club, we averaged each breed’s level of popularity in 1940 with its popularity in 2021. This analysis excluded any new breed introduced since 1940 and is based on data released on March 15, 2022, the most recent data available. Any ties were decided by the breed that ranked highest in 2021.
Click through to find out if your favorite dog was just as beloved 80 years ago.
You may also like: Things to consider when adopting a pet
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 44
- 2021 rank: 45
Newfoundlands are known for their large size, which is enhanced by their heavy double-coat. They are also characterized by their sweet and gentle personality. While they may seem like the perfect pet, one of the Newfoundlands’ less desirable traits is their tendency to drool.
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 44
- 2021 rank: 45
Newfoundlands are known for their large size, which is enhanced by their heavy double-coat. They are also characterized by their sweet and gentle personality. While they may seem like the perfect pet, one of the Newfoundlands’ less desirable traits is their tendency to drool.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 43
- 2021 rank: 46
Called Westie for short, the West Highland White Terrier descends from a group of terriers bred to seek out vermin. As a result, they may share ancestors with cairn terriers and Scottish terriers. Though they look like soft stuffed animals, their outer coat is actually wiry and coarse.
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- Average rank: 44.5
- 1940 rank: 43
- 2021 rank: 46
Called Westie for short, the West Highland White Terrier descends from a group of terriers bred to seek out vermin. As a result, they may share ancestors with cairn terriers and Scottish terriers. Though they look like soft stuffed animals, their outer coat is actually wiry and coarse.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 43
- 1940 rank: 67
- 2021 rank: 19
As their name hints, Siberian Huskies originated from Siberia. They were bred to have serious endurance and a thick coat to withstand severe winters. These wolf-like dogs have won the hearts of many pet owners with their high energy and extra friendly personality.
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- Average rank: 43
- 1940 rank: 67
- 2021 rank: 19
As their name hints, Siberian Huskies originated from Siberia. They were bred to have serious endurance and a thick coat to withstand severe winters. These wolf-like dogs have won the hearts of many pet owners with their high energy and extra friendly personality.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 42.5
- 1940 rank: 14
- 2021 rank: 71
Characterized by their silky chestnut coats, Irish setters were originally bred to hunt birds. Although they love humans, their hunting instincts can make them a threat to smaller animals. They are active and energetic, so potential owners should be prepared to take them on lots of long walks or runs.
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- Average rank: 42.5
- 1940 rank: 14
- 2021 rank: 71
Characterized by their silky chestnut coats, Irish setters were originally bred to hunt birds. Although they love humans, their hunting instincts can make them a threat to smaller animals. They are active and energetic, so potential owners should be prepared to take them on lots of long walks or runs.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 41
- 1940 rank: 34
- 2021 rank: 48
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from the shallow estuary that’s surrounded by Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. In the 19th century, Chessies were used to hunt ducks in the Bay since their coat helps them repel water and stay warm.
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- Average rank: 41
- 1940 rank: 34
- 2021 rank: 48
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from the shallow estuary that’s surrounded by Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. In the 19th century, Chessies were used to hunt ducks in the Bay since their coat helps them repel water and stay warm.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 30.5
- 1940 rank: 33
- 2021 rank: 28
Also known as Shelties, Shetland sheepdogs were bred in the United Kingdom as herding dogs. These long-coated pups look similar to their collie relatives but are much smaller, weighing only about 20 pounds.
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- Average rank: 30.5
- 1940 rank: 33
- 2021 rank: 28
Also known as Shelties, Shetland sheepdogs were bred in the United Kingdom as herding dogs. These long-coated pups look similar to their collie relatives but are much smaller, weighing only about 20 pounds.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 29.5
- 1940 rank: 22
- 2021 rank: 37
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas typically weigh no more than 6 pounds. This breed has earned itself a lot of screen time, with roles in “Legally Blonde,” “Meet the Fockers,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” and as Taco Bell’s former mascot, Gidget.
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- Average rank: 29.5
- 1940 rank: 22
- 2021 rank: 37
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas typically weigh no more than 6 pounds. This breed has earned itself a lot of screen time, with roles in “Legally Blonde,” “Meet the Fockers,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” and as Taco Bell’s former mascot, Gidget.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 18
- 1940 rank: 12
- 2021 rank: 24
This breed combines a tiny figure with a big personality. Although they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Pomeranians can be possessive and behave aggressively toward those who threaten their space. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with young children.
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- Average rank: 18
- 1940 rank: 12
- 2021 rank: 24
This breed combines a tiny figure with a big personality. Although they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Pomeranians can be possessive and behave aggressively toward those who threaten their space. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with young children.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 17
- 1940 rank: 8
- 2021 rank: 26
English Springer Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and are active, obedient pups. Springer spaniels have won six Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the third-most of any breed.
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- Average rank: 17
- 1940 rank: 8
- 2021 rank: 26
English Springer Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and are active, obedient pups. Springer spaniels have won six Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the third-most of any breed.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 15
- 1940 rank: 29
- 2021 rank: 1
Despite their name, Labrador retrievers developed in Newfoundland, Canada, as opposed to Labrador, Canada. With coats generally in either yellow, chocolate, or black, Labs are an active breed that loves people and other animals.
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- Average rank: 15
- 1940 rank: 29
- 2021 rank: 1
Despite their name, Labrador retrievers developed in Newfoundland, Canada, as opposed to Labrador, Canada. With coats generally in either yellow, chocolate, or black, Labs are an active breed that loves people and other animals.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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- Average rank: 13
- 1940 rank: 3
- 2021 rank: 23
Even though terrier is in their name, Boston terriers are part of the nonsporting group. The other half of their name makes more sense: They were developed in Boston and became the official state dog of Massachusetts in 1979.
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- Average rank: 13
- 1940 rank: 3
- 2021 rank: 23
Even though terrier is in their name, Boston terriers are part of the nonsporting group. The other half of their name makes more sense: They were developed in Boston and became the official state dog of Massachusetts in 1979.
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog breeds with the most timeless popularity
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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Man’s best friend is a truly amazing animal.
Our dogs know so much about us. Not only do they learn to communicate with us without speaking, but dogs also have an uncanny ability to sense our moods. And that’s just as pets: Working dogs can be trained to perform even more incredible tasks, like guiding the blind, detecting bombs, sniffing out illegal drugs, or helping an epileptic person survive a seizure.
Of course, the most common job assigned to dogs—and one they’ve been performing for thousands of years since humans first domesticated them—is as guardians. Whether keeping watch over a flock of sheep or alerting the family to trespassers, dogs perform an invaluable task when it comes to providing security.
In honor of hard-working pups all over the world, Stacker ranked the top 23 breeds for guard dogs and ranked them by popularity on the American Kennel Club. Data is from 2021 and was released in 2022.
You may also like: Most popular large dog breeds
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Man’s best friend is a truly amazing animal.
Our dogs know so much about us. Not only do they learn to communicate with us without speaking, but dogs also have an uncanny ability to sense our moods. And that’s just as pets: Working dogs can be trained to perform even more incredible tasks, like guiding the blind, detecting bombs, sniffing out illegal drugs, or helping an epileptic person survive a seizure.
Of course, the most common job assigned to dogs—and one they’ve been performing for thousands of years since humans first domesticated them—is as guardians. Whether keeping watch over a flock of sheep or alerting the family to trespassers, dogs perform an invaluable task when it comes to providing security.
In honor of hard-working pups all over the world, Stacker ranked the top 23 breeds for guard dogs and ranked them by popularity on the American Kennel Club. Data is from 2021 and was released in 2022.
You may also like: Most popular large dog breeds
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 overall breed popularity: #194
Belgian Laekenois, which originated in Belgium, aren’t well known and are the rarest of four Belgian herding breeds. This dog breed is known to be loving to its human family but wary of human strangers. Since these dogs were originally bred to protect other animals, they typically don’t act aggressively toward other animals.
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- 2021 overall breed popularity: #194
Belgian Laekenois, which originated in Belgium, aren’t well known and are the rarest of four Belgian herding breeds. This dog breed is known to be loving to its human family but wary of human strangers. Since these dogs were originally bred to protect other animals, they typically don’t act aggressively toward other animals.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #187
The Canaan is the national dog of Israel. The medium-sized breed can be territorial and cautious around strangers and tend to shut down when extreme training methods are implemented. To make training fun for the Canaan breed, give them accolades and keep training sessions short.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #187
The Canaan is the national dog of Israel. The medium-sized breed can be territorial and cautious around strangers and tend to shut down when extreme training methods are implemented. To make training fun for the Canaan breed, give them accolades and keep training sessions short.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #179
Intelligent but serious, the Belgian sheepdog makes an excellent working dog. Belgian sheepdogs served as message carriers and ambulance dogs during World War I; today they often work as search-and-rescue dogs, guide dogs, and therapy dogs. They’re eager to please and very trainable, but have lots of energy and need plenty of regular activity.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #179
Intelligent but serious, the Belgian sheepdog makes an excellent working dog. Belgian sheepdogs served as message carriers and ambulance dogs during World War I; today they often work as search-and-rescue dogs, guide dogs, and therapy dogs. They’re eager to please and very trainable, but have lots of energy and need plenty of regular activity.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #164
The Puli has a thick coat of matted cords to protect it from extreme weather. This was likely helpful in the breed’s native Hungary, where the dogs were used for herding livestock. These loyal, loving dogs are strong-willed, need plenty of activity, and require daily grooming.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #164
The Puli has a thick coat of matted cords to protect it from extreme weather. This was likely helpful in the breed’s native Hungary, where the dogs were used for herding livestock. These loyal, loving dogs are strong-willed, need plenty of activity, and require daily grooming.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #150
This French shepherd dog was traditionally a herder and protector of sheep. The large breed is especially good with children.
You may also like: Most popular small dog breeds
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- 2021 breed popularity: #150
This French shepherd dog was traditionally a herder and protector of sheep. The large breed is especially good with children.
You may also like: Most popular small dog breeds
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #147
Tibetan mastiffs are massive dogs: Adult males can weigh up to 160 pounds. Their fluffy double coat only makes them look even more imposing. Dogs from this breed can be reserved and wary of strangers, but devoted to their families.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #147
Tibetan mastiffs are massive dogs: Adult males can weigh up to 160 pounds. Their fluffy double coat only makes them look even more imposing. Dogs from this breed can be reserved and wary of strangers, but devoted to their families.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #145
Despite the name, Spanish water dogs aren’t a water-loving breed. These highly active canines are part of the herding group of dog breeds, which protect livestock. They require tons of physical and mental stimulation and are easy to train.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #145
Despite the name, Spanish water dogs aren’t a water-loving breed. These highly active canines are part of the herding group of dog breeds, which protect livestock. They require tons of physical and mental stimulation and are easy to train.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #127
As its name implies, the black Russian terrier was bred in Russia in the 1940s as a working dog. At 30 inches tall, it’s a smart, courageous, and intelligent large breed and a terrier in name only. Due to their heritage, black Russian terriers thrive in cold weather and enjoy the snow.
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2021 breed popularity: #127
As its name implies, the black Russian terrier was bred in Russia in the 1940s as a working dog. At 30 inches tall, it’s a smart, courageous, and intelligent large breed and a terrier in name only. Due to their heritage, black Russian terriers thrive in cold weather and enjoy the snow.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #121
Long, lean, and graceful, Beaucerons have an air of poise about them. Their black coats with distinctive reddish-brown markings contribute to their elegant look. Gentle and reserved with their families, Beaucerons are very intelligent and eager to please their humans.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #121
Long, lean, and graceful, Beaucerons have an air of poise about them. Their black coats with distinctive reddish-brown markings contribute to their elegant look. Gentle and reserved with their families, Beaucerons are very intelligent and eager to please their humans.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #118
Boerboels tend to be confident and may stand as tall as 27 inches. It’s important for these dominant pups to be trained from early on—before they become adults. Novice dog owners beware—these pooches may be a lot to handle.
You may also like: Most popular dog breeds that are good for families
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2021 breed popularity: #118
Boerboels tend to be confident and may stand as tall as 27 inches. It’s important for these dominant pups to be trained from early on—before they become adults. Novice dog owners beware—these pooches may be a lot to handle.
You may also like: Most popular dog breeds that are good for families
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #101
This herding dog has a long lineage of cart-pulling, cattle droving, and sheep herding. The intelligent and sweet dogs are known for their loyalty. Their average lifespan is 11 years old.
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2021 breed popularity: #101
This herding dog has a long lineage of cart-pulling, cattle droving, and sheep herding. The intelligent and sweet dogs are known for their loyalty. Their average lifespan is 11 years old.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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- 2021 breed popularity: #88
The Anatolian shepherd dog, which hails from modern-day Turkey, was bred as a livestock guardian dog to protect sheep, goats, and other animals. These canines are large in size, used to having enough space to roam, and highly independent, preferring to work without human guidance. Anatolian shepherd dogs first came to the U.S. in the 1930s as part of a secret research project for the Department of Agriculture to determine which breed was the best sheepdog.
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- 2021 breed popularity: #88
The Anatolian shepherd dog, which hails from modern-day Turkey, was bred as a livestock guardian dog to protect sheep, goats, and other animals. These canines are large in size, used to having enough space to roam, and highly independent, preferring to work without human guidance. Anatolian shepherd dogs first came to the U.S. in the 1930s as part of a secret research project for the Department of Agriculture to determine which breed was the best sheepdog.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #75
Staffordshire bull terriers, or Staffies, aren’t particularly tall but what the 40-pound dogs lack in height, they make up for in solid muscle. Staffies’ big, blocky heads hint at their stubborn demeanor. Brave and tenacious, these dogs require lots of activity as they can become destructive when bored.
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2021 breed popularity: #75
Staffordshire bull terriers, or Staffies, aren’t particularly tall but what the 40-pound dogs lack in height, they make up for in solid muscle. Staffies’ big, blocky heads hint at their stubborn demeanor. Brave and tenacious, these dogs require lots of activity as they can become destructive when bored.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #65
The giant schnauzer is just like the standard schnauzer, only much bigger. These dogs are intelligent, alert, and very eager to please; giant schnauzers also have the calm, stable temperament often found in larger breeds. Their strong, muscular build and deep loyalty to their families make giant schnauzers excellent guard dogs.
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2021 breed popularity: #65
The giant schnauzer is just like the standard schnauzer, only much bigger. These dogs are intelligent, alert, and very eager to please; giant schnauzers also have the calm, stable temperament often found in larger breeds. Their strong, muscular build and deep loyalty to their families make giant schnauzers excellent guard dogs.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #56
First bred by English gamekeepers for protection against poachers, bullmastiffs have a powerful build and dedication to their work. These dogs are brave, loving, and incredibly loyal: Owners of bullmastiffs know their dogs always have their back.
You may also like: Most popular mid-size dog breeds
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2021 breed popularity: #56
First bred by English gamekeepers for protection against poachers, bullmastiffs have a powerful build and dedication to their work. These dogs are brave, loving, and incredibly loyal: Owners of bullmastiffs know their dogs always have their back.
You may also like: Most popular mid-size dog breeds
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #52
The Akita of ancient Japanese lineage are intelligent, dominant, and courageous. They tend to be aggressive with other dogs, and fare better in a one-dog household. These canines are highly active, easy to bore, and may not be the best fit for a first-time dog owner but they are fearless and loyal when it comes to their families.
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2021 breed popularity: #52
The Akita of ancient Japanese lineage are intelligent, dominant, and courageous. They tend to be aggressive with other dogs, and fare better in a one-dog household. These canines are highly active, easy to bore, and may not be the best fit for a first-time dog owner but they are fearless and loyal when it comes to their families.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #48
The Chesapeake Bay retriever is known for its waterproof coat and being upbeat and affectionate. They were originally water dogs with the task of hunting and retrieving ducks in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. These dogs are generally drawn to water and can become frustrated if they don’t receive adequate exercise.
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2021 breed popularity: #48
The Chesapeake Bay retriever is known for its waterproof coat and being upbeat and affectionate. They were originally water dogs with the task of hunting and retrieving ducks in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. These dogs are generally drawn to water and can become frustrated if they don’t receive adequate exercise.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #21
The cane corso embodies the stereotype of the bodyguard: imposing in stature, serious in demeanor, and just a tad intimidating. This breed’s muscular build and alert intelligence make them ideal guard dogs.
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2021 breed popularity: #21
The cane corso embodies the stereotype of the bodyguard: imposing in stature, serious in demeanor, and just a tad intimidating. This breed’s muscular build and alert intelligence make them ideal guard dogs.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #16
Clever, loyal, and highly trainable, Doberman pinschers often work with the police and the military. The breed’s pointy ears and sharp noses give these dogs an intimidating air, though they’re actually deeply dedicated to the people they love. Dobermans have lots of energy and need plenty of daily activity to keep their muscular physique.
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2021 breed popularity: #16
Clever, loyal, and highly trainable, Doberman pinschers often work with the police and the military. The breed’s pointy ears and sharp noses give these dogs an intimidating air, though they’re actually deeply dedicated to the people they love. Dobermans have lots of energy and need plenty of daily activity to keep their muscular physique.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #14
Like human boxers in the ring, these dogs are muscular yet agile, powerful yet graceful. Fun-loving and quick-witted, boxers need lots of physical and mental challenges to be content. They’re also excellent with children and easy to train, making them perfect guard dogs for families.
You may also like: What 25 dogs were bred for
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2021 breed popularity: #14
Like human boxers in the ring, these dogs are muscular yet agile, powerful yet graceful. Fun-loving and quick-witted, boxers need lots of physical and mental challenges to be content. They’re also excellent with children and easy to train, making them perfect guard dogs for families.
You may also like: What 25 dogs were bred for
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #12
Despite the name, Australian shepherds are not from Australia—they’re an American breed. These working dogs are happiest when kept busy and when they have a job to do. Although they are known for needing vast open space to exercise, Australian shepherds do well living in cities as long as they are kept active.
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2021 breed popularity: #12
Despite the name, Australian shepherds are not from Australia—they’re an American breed. These working dogs are happiest when kept busy and when they have a job to do. Although they are known for needing vast open space to exercise, Australian shepherds do well living in cities as long as they are kept active.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #8
Rottweilers are happiest when they have a “job”—this breed can do all kinds of work, from police canine unit, to therapy dog, to farm herder, to classic family guard dog. Rottweilers have natural protective instincts that keep them reserved with strangers but affectionate to their families. And their imposing stature and distinctive black coat with mahogany markings also give Rottweilers an impressive look.
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2021 breed popularity: #8
Rottweilers are happiest when they have a “job”—this breed can do all kinds of work, from police canine unit, to therapy dog, to farm herder, to classic family guard dog. Rottweilers have natural protective instincts that keep them reserved with strangers but affectionate to their families. And their imposing stature and distinctive black coat with mahogany markings also give Rottweilers an impressive look.
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Dog owners tout Xolos’ loyalty and sacred underworld history
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2021 breed popularity: #4
Perhaps the quintessential guard dog, German shepherds are known for their solid stature, keen intelligence, and instinctive bravery. This breed has a graceful, elegant gait, but can crank it up a notch and reach high speeds if the need arises. Just make sure to give German shepherds plenty of playtime—like Rottweilers and other working dogs, they crave having a job to do.
Canva
2021 breed popularity: #4
Perhaps the quintessential guard dog, German shepherds are known for their solid stature, keen intelligence, and instinctive bravery. This breed has a graceful, elegant gait, but can crank it up a notch and reach high speeds if the need arises. Just make sure to give German shepherds plenty of playtime—like Rottweilers and other working dogs, they crave having a job to do.
The dogs also are a part of modern-day culture in Mexico and beyond. At least a couple of Xoloitzcuintles can be seen in Frida Kahlo’s paintings. A few more appear in portraits where the artist posed with her husband, Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. Their love for these pets was shared by friend and art collector Dolores Olmedo, whose home in Mexico City became a museum and until recently took care of a few Xolos that visitors could approach.
In 2016, the capital’s mayor gave the Xoloitzcuintle a cultural heritage designation, and a year later, a charming Xolo named Dante reached world fame after his appearance in animated film “Coco”, which portrayed the adventures of a Mexican boy through the underworld.
Back in San Ildefonso, the Gutiérrez sisters hope more people will come to appreciate the breed’s significance and help it thrive. Once thought by experts to be headed toward extinction, Xolos can be spotted in upper class Mexico City neighborhoods. Nemiliz Gutiérrez said some breeders sell the dogs for upwards of $3,500.
Not every Xolo is in demand though, especially the variety with fur.
“Almost nobody wants them,” said Gutiérrez, whose sister works to find caring homes for all Xolos regardless of their coats. Through that process, they enjoy sharing about the breed’s historic significance — when Xolos embodied an endless love believed to transcend death.
