NON-SPORTING BREEDERS Q&A
“The Xolo is well-suited to be a family dog with the committed owner. The Xolo needs a lot of proper socialization which requires time, understanding, and patience. Expanding on the foundation set by the breeder, a family needs to be prepared to do some basic obedience that should continue and remain constant throughout the life of the dog.”
ily dog with the committed owner. The Xolo needs a lot of proper socialization which requires time, understanding, and patience. Expanding on the foundation set by the breeder, a family needs to be prepared to do some basic obedience that should continue and remain constant throughout the life of the dog. This regiment and line of communication is required to establish boundaries so that they become a great family dog. While they are an athletic and high-energy breed, they love their down time to cuddle. Xolos are very bonded with their families but also with extended members and friends who become part of their social pack. Do I feel that my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders? The Xolo, being relatively new to AKC, has low numbers in comparison to other breeds. However, we have a number of wonderful breeders across the US who are dedicated to the Xolo and have mentored others who have shown an interest, therefore those numbers are sure to grow. Also, several AKC breed- ers work with breeders in Mexico and around the world, bringing in much-needed genetic diversity. For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experi- enced with my Non-Sporting Dog? Our second Xolo was quite the character; very low key, sensitive, and extremely observant. “Machu” was a sharp and eager learner who was the first Xolo to get a Rally Advanced Excellent (RAE) title in AKC. On our first road trip with our travel trailer, we had been driving across Colorado and Wyo- ming for a ridiculous number of hours. When we finally pulled into Little America, Wyoming, for the night, he was clearly tired and ready to get out for a potty break and stretch his legs. Thinking that we were going to load up and drive off again, he was just shuffling along with our other Xolo, lacking any animation. I will never forget the look of pure joy on his face and the transformation that took over his whole body when I opened the door to the trailer to let them in. He looked at me with wonderment in his eyes as if asking, “Wow, how did this get here? We are home!” I spent time in the trailer with them to prepare for the trip, and they loved it. “Sombra” just pushed through to get on the bed, but Machu was all wide-eyed, oozing pure happiness. Looking straight at me, I could see his comprehen- sion travel through his whole body. It’s really hard to explain, but I will never forget his reaction. Machu lived to be 16. He’s been gone for a few years, but he left us with such great memories.
Are there any health-related concerns within my breed? Any special nutritional needs? The OFA database in Xolos is growing steadily as more breeders are submitting test results and obtain- ing CHIC numbers. In addition to the recommended parent club health tests, many breeders go above and beyond with additional tests through OFA and other screening sources, such as PENN Hips. Advancements in technology in DNA testing from compa- nies such as Embark and Optimal Selection are also used in col- laborative documentation. While the Xolo numbers are still low in these DNA databases, they are increasing, adding a much-needed reference point. At this time, there are no breed-specific tests for Xolos, but these types of screenings can identify carriers of health conditions such as Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) and PRA (Pro- gressive Retinal Atrophy), for example, which provides invaluable information when making breeding selections. Unfortunately, there are many health conditions, such as autoimmune conditions (i.e., Addison’s, IMTP, IMHA, EPI, SRMA) that do not have markers and have popped up in Xolos as they do in many other breeds. I have heard of some issues with various kidney conditions as well as cancers. Xolos are susceptible to health issues just like any breed. Diet for the Xolo does not require any special nutritional needs beyond a quality food that can be enhanced with raw food, but this is not necessary. While the Xolo can have adolescent acne, it generally clears up as adults. Chronic skin issues may require a specialized diet and guidance from a board-certified dermatologist. These conditions may be individual but also genetic, and could be immune-related. In my opinion, is my breed in good condition overall. Any trends that warrant concern? I do feel that my breed is in good condition overall, as the serious breeders have the best interests of the Xolo at heart. Not only do they want to produce a sound Xolo with good temperament for the show ring, but also for the many families that hope to add a Xolo to their lives. Having grown up in dogs and as an artist, the first thing I look at is the outline for breed type. I had a judge tell me years ago that breeders needed to pay attention to the tail carriage, as she was seeing more and more curled tails. I am now seeing this trend around the world and at the highest levels of competition, making it appear that there is a possibility of it becom- ing the norm—which is incorrect. Is my breed well-suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed? The Xolo is well-suited to be a fam-
206 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, MAY 2022
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