Josie is too adorable for words!
Today was Josie’s first day of daycare. She is a Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced sho-lo-skwink-le), or Mexican Hairless Dog. The Xoloitzcuintli is the national dog of Mexico. According to the Xoloitzcuintle Club USA, Xoloitzcuintle was regarded as the earthly representative of the god Xolotl from which the name originates. In Mesoamerican art, Xolotl is portrayed as a man with a dog’s head. He was said to have created a protector and guide for humans in the underworld in the form of the hairless dog, the Xoloitzcuintle. Its task was to accompany the souls of the dead to the eternal resting place. It is estimated that the breed dates back 3,000 years and was a companion of the Colima, Mayan and Aztec Indians.
The website www.dogbreedinfo.com says that the Aztecs enjoyed the hairless dogs as pets, but also found them useful. They would even use the toy version of the breed as ancient hot-water bottles to relieving stomach pains and rheumatic joints, or simply for warming beds during cold nights. Extreme cold made for a “Three Dog Night.” I know that’s something to make me sing “Joy to the World!”
Whatever her ancient history, we’re so glad that Josie is here to help keep our playrooms warm now that summer is ending!
Originally featured on Dogtopia of Charlotte's Doggy Blog
Thank you Nicole Pennell of DOGTOPIA for featuring Josie!
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