Every kind of a dog, however bizarre or degenerate, can find a human friend somewhere, and this most unprepossessing product of our unfortunate neighbor to the south is no exception. For unpleasant to the eye as he is, with his sausage-like exterior, weak, lashless eyes, and quivering drawn-in hind-quarters, he is said, by his friends, to be a bright and very affectionate little dog, which repays amply the care and regard of his master.

Chihuahua, Mexican Hairless.

Chihuahua, Mexican Hairless.

There seems to be a good deal of variation permissible as to size, form, and contour, so long as the prime misfortune of complete bald ness be present. The best specimens, however, just to be bizarre, carry a topknot of silky white hair on their crown. In general they are like any medium-sized or small terrier whose hair has been scalded off.

The skin may be all pink, all dark purplish like old bologna, or a marbled combination of the two. The absence of a tempering coat of hair makes them feel unpleasantly fevered to the touch, and of course they are very sensitive to changes in the temperature and hence are rarely seen in the northern part of our country. For the "purposes of a dog" they are useless.