Should the Mexican Hairless Dog Become the Official State Dog?

It's a well-known fact that each American state has its unique official designations, from state flowers to state mottos, and even state insects! However, given that approximately two-thirds of American households, tallying up to around 65 million, are dog owners, it's surprising that only 13 states have official state dogs.

The Pampered Pup, a dog food company, recently conducted a poll of 3,000 respondents to find out their preferred breed if given the opportunity to vote for an official state dog.

The poll results unveiled a fascinating theme - Americans overwhelmingly favored breeds with significant historical ties to their respective states.

The Mexican Hairless Dog, or Xoloitzcuintli, was the top choice for New Mexicans, due to its deep historical ties with the region and its cultural significance. Pre-dating even the Mayans and Aztecs, the Xoloitzcuintli is considered one of the world's oldest and rarest dog breeds, native to Mexico, but also with a rich history in the broader Southwestern U.S. region. Furthermore, the Xoloitzcuintli's adaptability to desert climates, similar to New Mexico's, showcases the breed's resilience and compatibility with the local environment.

In second place, they voted for the Chihuahua. With its origins tracing back to ancient civilizations of Mexico, the Chihuahua represents the deep historical connections between Mexico and New Mexico. The state's 3rd pick was the Jack Russell Terrier.

Check out this map showing how each state voted for their official dog.