When Valentina Pinci brought home her dog Quetzalli, a Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dog), she was instantly in love. To Pinci, Quetzalli was perfect — elegant, unique, and full of personality. But not everyone saw her that way.
After moving to Puerto Rico, where Xolos are extremely rare, Pinci began noticing people’s reactions on walks.
“People were curious,” she said, “but sometimes you’d see disgust — even fear.”
The Xoloitzcuintli’s striking, hairless appearance often draws attention, not always in a kind way. Pinci wished the world could see Quetzalli through her eyes — not as something strange, but as something beautiful.
As an artist with deep roots in pre-Hispanic culture, Pinci had previously painted another Xolo, her ex’s dog. She would occasionally decorate Quetzalli when she was a calm puppy, but those were rare moments. That changed one day when Pinci found herself in a creative slump.
“I was feeling kind of low,” she recalled, “so I spent the morning doodling mandalas on her booty. She just napped peacefully the whole time. It was so calming for me.”
That quiet morning transformed everything. The joyful reactions from people who saw Quetzalli “all dressed up” shifted the mood of their day — and soon became a regular ritual.
Now, Pinci frequently decorates Quetzalli with intricate, mandala-style patterns using non-toxic, dog-safe paints. What began as a therapeutic outlet became a beautiful bridge between the dog and the community around her.
“When she’s painted, people are warmer, more curious, more open,” Pinci said. “Kids shout, ‘Dante from Coco!’ and it gives me the chance to teach them about Xolos — their history, mythology, and cultural significance.”
Quetzalli, for her part, is a laid-back companion who thrives on routine and enjoys time in her mom’s art studio. Becoming a living canvas isn’t just tolerable for her — it’s something she seems to embrace, spreading joy just by being herself.
“She’s always been beautiful to me,” Pinci said. “Now the world can see it too.”
