I had the great pleasure of meeting and photographing Moira, a Xoloitzcuintli last year (see photos from that session HERE!), and when her owners wanted to book another shoot this summer, with Moira and their new Xolo, Uxi, I was super excited for the opportunity to work with this breed again!

If you aren’t familiar with this breed, here is a bit about their history…

”The name Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “sho-low-itz-queent-li”) is derived from the name of the Aztec god Xolotl and Itzcuintli, the Aztec word for dog.

A uniquely New World breed, the Xoloitzcuintli stands out for being hairless, although there is a coated variety. The Xoloitzcuintli was one of the earliest breeds to be added to the American Kennel Club studbook – in 1887 under the name “Mexican Hairless”.

This is a robust and healthy breed that evolved in the primitive jungles of Colima, Mexico. Archaeological evidence has been found in the tombs of the Colima, Mayan, Toltec, Zapoteca, and Aztec Indians dating the breed to over 3500 years ago.

Long regarded as guardians and protectors, the indigenous peoples believed that the Xolo would safeguard the home from evil spirits as well as intruders. In ancient times the Xolos were often sacrificed and then buried with their owners to act as guide to the soul on its journey to the underworld. These dogs were considered a great delicacy and were consumed for sacrificial ceremonies – including marriages and funerals.” (source: Xoloitzcuintli Club of America)

Both dogs were very outgoing, willing to let us photograph them in a shallow lake, manicured greenery, and amongst the wild flowers and trees that lead up to the trails in the park. We did a mix of both portraits and action shots, focusing on photographing their personalities and the beauty of the Xolo breed.

I have too many favorites from this photoshoot, so enjoy a large collection of fine art photos of the Xolos, Moira and Uxi!