Facts & Origin
The wolfdog from Mexico
The Calupoh is a breed of dog from Mexico that originated from the crossbreeding of dogs and wolves, in particular the gray wolf. The domestication of this hybrid already took place in pre-Columbian times, from around the beginning of our era until the 16th century, as the similarities between the two species made this possible.
In the 1990s, a comprehensive research and conservation project began to restore this ancient breed. Since then, intensive work has been carried out to breed and conserve the Calupoh in order to preserve a cultural and historical heritage. In 1999, the Calupoh was finally recognized as an independent breed by the Federación Canófila Mexicana, Mexico's national dog association. This means that there are now three officially recognized Mexican dog breeds - the Chihuahua, the Xoloitzcuintle and the Calupoh.
| Alternate Name | Mexican Wolf-dog, Perro lobo mexicano, Mexican Black Wolfdog, Lupo negro |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 13 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | average to high |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Typical character traits
The Calupoh is an extremely agile and dynamic dog that is nevertheless very balanced and easy to handle. He adapts easily to different activities. He is loyal and faithful in the family, gets along well with other dogs and is always eager to please his owner. However, he can be somewhat reserved towards strangers.
Health and breeding information
Breeding of the Calupoh
Hybridization between the grey wolf and the domestic dog has been a common phenomenon since the appearance of the dog some 15,000 years ago, due to the close genetic similarity between the two species. The first documented case in pre-Columbian Mexico was discovered in 1999, and since then over 40 such hybrids have been identified. Due to the extensive knowledge of these ancient peoples about wolves, it is believed that these crosses were deliberately induced. Females in heat were used to produce litters that combined the symbolic strength of the wolf in a tractable body.
Chronologically, these hybrids date from the beginning of our era to the 16th century. The contexts in which these animals were found indicate that the ruling elite used them as sacrificial offerings or hierarchical symbols associated with the afterlife, war or agriculture. Their dual identity embodied the warlike nature of the wolf and the fertile meaning of the dog, which was associated with rain and harvest.
What does a Calupoh look like?
The Calupoh is a strong and agile dog. Males reach a height of 62 to 75 cm, while females grow to between 58 and 70 cm. Its coat is mostly black, but there are also variants in silver, smoky black and white.
The most striking feature of this breed is its impressive yellow or orange eyes.
The pictures in our gallery serve as symbolic images, as the Calupoh is a rare breed and there are only a few authentic photographs.
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears |
| Tail | lang |
| Anatomy | sporty |
| Size ♀ | 58 - 70 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 30 - 50 kg |
| Size ♂ | 62 - 75 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 30 - 50 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
FAQ
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The Calupoh is a Mexican dog breed that originated from a cross between a dog and a wolf. It was developed in the 1990s to preserve the cultural heritage of the old Mexican wolfhounds.
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Males reach a height of 62 to 75 cm, while females grow to between 58 and 70 cm.
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A Calupoh usually weighs between 30 and 50 kilograms, depending on the sex and size of the dog.
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The coat of the Calupoh is mostly black, but there are also variants in silver, smoky black and white.
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The most striking feature of the Calupoh is its yellow or orange eyes, which give it an imposing and unique appearance.
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Due to its intelligence and loyal nature, the Calupoh is easy to train, but requires an experienced hand and consistent leadership, as it also has wolf-like instincts.
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The Calupoh is a very active dog and needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay balanced.
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Yes, the Calupoh is a rare breed that is only found in Mexico and is little known outside the country.
