In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which falls from mid-September to mid-October, CU Denver News has written profiles of some of our Latino Lynx on campus. See our article on Professor Quintin Gonzalez’s Chicano art or read about Peer Advocate Leader Elena Deras Galdamez‘s book diary. In this just-for-fun article, our new student writer discusses dog breeds that come from or were popularized in different Latin American countries. However, people and their cultures are the main focus of our Hispanic Heritage Month articles.
When you think of Latin American dog breeds, your mind might automatically spring to a yapping Chihuahua that originates from Mexico. Well, Latin America includes Central America, South America, and many islands in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, and they are home to many beautiful dog breeds you might not know.
The personalities of these animals can vary from social four-legged friends to herding dogs to loyal companions. Many of these dogs can be great lifelong partners for families or individuals. Of course, mixed dog breeds are also wonderful and often combine some of the best traits from different breeds.
Bienvenidos!
Chihuahua
We probably all know something about the most popular Latin American dog breed. They are one of the oldest dog breeds that originates from Mexico and were developed by the Aztec peoples. Within their compact bodies and short snouts, they are bursting with energy and feisty personality. Their big-dog energy is demonstrated through expressions and demeanor.
Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as Xolos, these are Mexican hairless dogs. It is pronounced “show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee.” They are another breed that can be traced back to the Aztecs. They are considered Mexico’s national dog. They are great watchdogs, just like Dante from Coco! Their hairlessness resulting from a genetic mutation, Xolos of the same litter can come coated, partially or mixed coated, or entirely hairless.
Dogo Argentino
Now we are going further south past Central America, to Argentina, where these dogs originate. They are strong dogs with many impressive qualities. They’re considered to be a relatively new breed of dogs, established only in the 1920s. They are great for families with older children as they are loyal, protective, and patient. These dogs require a lot of daily exercise and social interaction.
Havanese
Havanese, are the only dog breed native to Cuba. They are cheerful little dogs with a spring in every step they take. They might be little, but they have vivacious personalities. They are sociable companions that are also closely related to the Bichon Frise. While they may not need a lot of space to roam, their flowing locks do require time and care. With their mischievous personalities, they are naturally extroverted.
Brazilian Terriers
They are descendants from a mix of Jack Russells, Parson Russells, Fox Terriers, and Chihuahuas. These mixed breeds are beautiful and highly intelligent. Full of dynamic energy, they love to play for hours at end. These good-natured dogs are also excellent at catching vermin, a helpful talent in an agricultural powerhouse like Brazil.
Chilean Terrier
Another beautiful mixed breed can be found in the country of Chile. They are rarely found outside of their home country. They are a mix of British fox terrier and Chilean dogs. They are considered to be well-balanced, elegant, and affectionate toward families. Although they are on the smaller side, their fur coats are mainly white with black and brown markings.
