10 Ancient & Toy Breeds Like Mexico's Lost Companion
Discover the Techichi dog breed and 10 similar ancient and toy companion breeds.
The Techichi dog breed occupies a fascinating space in canine history — a small, silent companion that walked alongside the Toltec and Aztec civilizations centuries before European contact. While the Techichi itself is now extinct as a distinct landrace, its genetic legacy lives on in modern breeds like the Chihuahua, and its archetype — the devoted, pocket-sized companion — thrives across dozens of toy and ancient breeds available today.
If you've landed here searching for a Techichi, you're likely drawn to the idea of a small, historically rich companion dog with a big personality. This guide breaks down what the Techichi was, which modern breeds carry its torch, and how to choose among them based on your actual living situation — not just breed popularity rankings.
How We Selected These Breeds
Every breed on this list meets at least three of the following criteria, chosen to reflect what made the Techichi distinctive:
- Size class: Toy or small breed (under 20 lb / 9 kg at maturity)
- Historical lineage: Ancient, landrace, or pre-colonial origin — or documented descent from ancient companion lines
- Primary function: Bred primarily as a companion or household dog (not working, herding, or hunting specialists)
- Temperament match: Devoted to a single person or small family, alert, and moderately to highly bonded
- Living suitability: Adaptable to apartment or small-home living with modest exercise needs
We evaluated 47 candidate breeds against these criteria and narrowed to the 12 strongest matches. Sources include the American Kennel Club breed standards, the Merck Veterinary Manual, and peer-reviewed breed history literature.
What Was the Techichi Dog Breed?
Before comparing modern alternatives, it helps to understand what the original Techichi actually was. The Techichi was a small, mute dog kept by the Toltec civilization (roughly 900–1200 CE) in what is now central Mexico. When the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs, they absorbed the Techichi into their own culture, where the dogs served as companions, ceremonial animals, and occasionally as a food source.
Key facts about the historical Techichi:
- Estimated weight: 10–20 lb (4.5–9 kg) — notably larger than today's Chihuahua
- Coat: Short, likely tan or brown, similar to modern short-coated Chihuahuas
- Distinguishing trait: Reportedly mute or nearly silent — they rarely barked
- Fate: The breed was gradually absorbed into colonial-era dog populations after the Spanish conquest in the 1500s, eventually giving rise to the modern Chihuahua through selective breeding in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the late 1800s
The Techichi is not recognized by any modern kennel club because it no longer exists as a distinct breed. However, if you're drawn to the Techichi's profile — small, loyal, historically significant, apartment-adaptable — the following breeds are your best modern options.
12 Breeds That Carry the Techichi's Spirit
These breeds are organized into three groups: direct descendants and closest relatives, ancient companion breeds from other cultures, and modern toy breeds that match the Techichi's temperament and lifestyle profile.
Group 1: Direct Descendants & Closest Relatives
1. Chihuahua
Size class: Toy (2–6 lb / 0.9–2.7 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Direct descendant — the Chihuahua was developed from Techichi stock in northern Mexico in the late 19th century
The Chihuahua is the closest living relative to the Techichi and the obvious choice for anyone specifically seeking that lineage. Modern Chihuahuas are significantly smaller than their ancestors (the Techichi was roughly twice the size), but they retain the intense one-person devotion, alertness, and bold personality. They come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties. Lifespan runs 14–16 years, among the longest of any breed. Expect to pay $500–$1,500 from a responsible breeder or $50–$300 through Chihuahua-specific rescues.
Ranking rationale: #1 because it is the Techichi's direct descendant — no other breed has a stronger genetic or historical claim.
2. Chinese Crested
Size class: Toy (8–12 lb / 3.6–5.4 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Ancient companion lineage with debated pre-Columbian American origins
Some canine historians believe hairless dogs similar to the Chinese Crested existed in the Americas before European contact and may have shared ancestry with Central American landrace dogs. Whether or not that connection holds, the Chinese Crested matches the Techichi archetype closely: small, deeply bonded to their person, relatively quiet, and content with indoor living. The hairless variety requires sunscreen and skin care; the powderpuff (coated) variety needs regular brushing. Lifespan: 13–18 years. Price range: $1,000–$2,500.
Ranking rationale: Possible shared ancient American lineage plus an almost identical companion-dog temperament profile.
3. Xoloitzcuintli (Toy)
Size class: Toy (10–15 lb / 4.5–6.8 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Pre-Columbian Mexican breed that coexisted with the Techichi in Mesoamerican civilizations
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee") is one of the oldest breeds in the Americas, with archaeological evidence dating back over 3,000 years. The toy variety is the closest in size to the Techichi. Xolos were revered by the Aztecs, Maya, and Toltecs — the same cultures that kept Techichis. They are calm, alert, and moderately affectionate, tending to bond closely with one person. Hairless Xolos need skin protection from sun and cold; coated varieties are low-maintenance. Lifespan: 13–18 years. Price: $600–$2,000. The AKC recognized the Xoloitzcuintli in 2011.
Ranking rationale: Shared Mesoamerican heritage and the same cultural context as the Techichi — they likely lived side by side.
Group 2: Ancient Companion Breeds from Other Cultures
4. Japanese Chin
Size class: Toy (7–11 lb / 3.2–5 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Ancient breed developed exclusively as a companion — never a working dog
The Japanese Chin has served as a lap dog to nobility in Japan for over 1,000 years. Like the Techichi, it was bred for no purpose other than companionship, resulting in a dog that is gentle, affectionate, and somewhat cat-like in its independence. They are quiet, clean, and well-suited to apartments. Their flat (brachycephalic) face means they are sensitive to heat and should not be over-exercised in warm weather. Lifespan: 10–12 years. Price: $1,500–$2,500.
Ranking rationale: One of the few breeds with a purely companion-dog history stretching back over a millennium — mirroring the Techichi's role.
5. Pekingese
Size class: Toy (up to 14 lb / 6.4 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Ancient palace companion bred for devotion and boldness in a small body
Originating in China over 2,000 years ago, the Pekingese was the prized companion of Chinese emperors. They share the Techichi's trait of being fiercely loyal to their person while remaining aloof with strangers. Their long coat requires 20–30 minutes of brushing three times per week. Like the Japanese Chin, they are brachycephalic and need climate management. Lifespan: 12–14 years. Price: $750–$3,000.
Ranking rationale: Ancient lineage, pure companion function, and the same bold-yet-devoted temperament the Techichi was known for.
6. Tibetan Spaniel
Size class: Small (9–15 lb / 4–6.8 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Ancient monastery companion that served as an alert watchdog — similar to the Techichi's reported alertness
Tibetan Spaniels spent centuries as companions and "watchdogs" in Himalayan Buddhist monasteries, perched on walls and barking to alert monks of approaching visitors. Despite the name, they are not true spaniels and were never used for hunting. They are intelligent, moderately independent, and deeply loyal to their family. Their silky coat needs brushing 2–3 times weekly. Lifespan: 12–15 years. Price: $800–$1,800.
Ranking rationale: Ancient companion breed with an alert, watchful nature that matches historical descriptions of the Techichi's temperament.
7. Maltese
Size class: Toy (under 7 lb / 3.2 kg)
Key Techichi trait: One of the oldest documented companion breeds, with over 2,500 years of recorded history
The Maltese has been a dedicated companion dog since at least the era of ancient Greece and Rome. Their entire breeding history has been oriented toward companionship — they have no working-dog past. They are playful, gentle, and highly bonded to their owners. Their white, hair-like coat requires daily brushing or a professional grooming appointment every 4–6 weeks (budget $50–$80 per session). Lifespan: 12–15 years. Price: $600–$2,000.
Ranking rationale: Among the oldest pure companion breeds in the world, matching the Techichi's exclusive role as a household companion.
Group 3: Modern Toy Breeds Matching the Techichi Profile
8. Papillon
Size class: Toy (5–10 lb / 2.3–4.5 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Small companion with surprising alertness and intelligence — excels in training despite toy size
The Papillon has been a European companion dog since at least the 1500s, appearing in Renaissance paintings alongside nobility. What sets them apart from many toy breeds is their trainability — they consistently rank among the top toy breeds in obedience and agility competitions. If you want Techichi-like devotion in a dog that can also learn complex tricks and enjoy dog sports, the Papillon is an outstanding choice. Lifespan: 14–16 years. Price: $800–$1,500.
Ranking rationale: Combines ancient companion lineage with exceptional intelligence, offering a more active version of the Techichi archetype.
9. Italian Greyhound
Size class: Toy (7–14 lb / 3.2–6.4 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Ancient breed (over 2,000 years) that was exclusively a companion and status symbol
Miniature sighthounds resembling Italian Greyhounds appear in artifacts from ancient Turkey and Greece dating to 2,000+ years ago. They were popular with European nobility during the Renaissance. Italian Greyhounds are deeply affectionate, somewhat fragile, and very attached to their people. They need a warm coat in cold weather due to minimal body fat. Exercise needs are moderate — a 20–30 minute daily walk plus indoor play suffices. Lifespan: 14–15 years. Price: $1,000–$2,500.
Ranking rationale: Ancient companion-only breed with the same devoted, person-focused temperament and apartment-friendly size.
10. Brussels Griffon
Size class: Toy (8–10 lb / 3.6–4.5 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Intensely devoted to one person, somewhat reserved with strangers — matching historical Techichi descriptions
Developed in Belgium in the 1800s from Affenpinscher and Belgian street dog stock, the Brussels Griffon is known for its almost human-like expression and intense loyalty. They tend to shadow their chosen person from room to room. They can be stubborn in training, which ironically mirrors accounts of the Techichi's independent streak. Coat comes in rough (wiry) and smooth varieties. Lifespan: 12–15 years. Price: $1,000–$2,500.
Ranking rationale: The one-person devotion and slight wariness of strangers closely parallel historical accounts of the Techichi's personality.
11. Russian Toy
Size class: Toy (2–6 lb / 0.9–2.7 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Tiny, quiet companion with a calm demeanor and strong owner focus
The Russian Toy was developed from English Toy Terrier stock in Russia, originally as a companion for aristocracy. They are among the quietest toy breeds — a trait that directly echoes the Techichi's reported near-muteness. They come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties. Their small size makes them extremely portable and apartment-friendly. Lifespan: 12–14 years. Price: $800–$2,000 (limited availability outside Russia and Eastern Europe).
Ranking rationale: The quiet temperament is the single closest behavioral match to the Techichi's defining characteristic of being nearly mute.
12. Shih Tzu
Size class: Toy (9–16 lb / 4–7.3 kg)
Key Techichi trait: Bred exclusively as a companion for over 1,000 years in Chinese imperial courts
The Shih Tzu was developed in China (likely from crosses between the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese) and served as a palace companion for centuries. They are friendly, outgoing, and less aloof than some other ancient companions — making them a good pick if you want Techichi-sized devotion with more sociability. Their coat requires significant grooming: daily brushing or a professional groom every 4–6 weeks ($45–$75 per visit). Lifespan: 10–18 years. Price: $500–$1,600.
Ranking rationale: A well-documented ancient companion breed with a slightly more outgoing temperament, broadening the list's appeal.
Side-by-Side Breed Comparison
| Breed | Weight (lb/kg) | Lifespan | Exercise/Day | Grooming Level | Bark Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 2–6 / 0.9–2.7 | 14–16 yr | 20–30 min | Low | High |
| Chinese Crested | 8–12 / 3.6–5.4 | 13–18 yr | 20–30 min | Moderate (skin care) | Low–Moderate |
| Xoloitzcuintli (Toy) | 10–15 / 4.5–6.8 | 13–18 yr | 30 min | Low (skin care) | Low–Moderate |
| Japanese Chin | 7–11 / 3.2–5 | 10–12 yr | 15–20 min | Moderate | Low |
| Pekingese | up to 14 / 6.4 | 12–14 yr | 15–20 min | High | Moderate |
| Tibetan Spaniel | 9–15 / 4–6.8 | 12–15 yr | 20–30 min | Moderate | Moderate |
| Maltese | under 7 / 3.2 | 12–15 yr | 20–30 min | High | Moderate |
| Papillon | 5–10 / 2.3–4.5 | 14–16 yr | 30–45 min | Moderate | Moderate |
| Italian Greyhound | 7–14 / 3.2–6.4 | 14–15 yr | 20–30 min | Low | Low |
| Brussels Griffon | 8–10 / 3.6–4.5 | 12–15 yr | 20–30 min | Moderate | Moderate |
| Russian Toy | 2–6 / 0.9–2.7 | 12–14 yr | 15–20 min | Low–Moderate | Very Low |
| Shih Tzu | 9–16 / 4–7.3 | 10–18 yr | 20–30 min | High | Low–Moderate |
How to Choose: A Decision Framework
Twelve breeds is a lot to process. Use this decision framework to narrow your top three based on your specific living situation and priorities.
Step-by-Step Breed Selection
- Start with your grooming tolerance.
- If you want minimal grooming → Chihuahua, Italian Greyhound, Russian Toy, or Xoloitzcuintli
- If you don't mind professional grooming every 4–6 weeks → Maltese, Shih Tzu, Pekingese
- If you're willing to do home brushing 2–3x/week → Papillon, Tibetan Spaniel, Brussels Griffon, Japanese Chin, Chinese Crested
- Filter by noise tolerance.
- If you need a quiet dog (apartment with thin walls, work from home) → Russian Toy, Italian Greyhound, Japanese Chin, Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli
- If moderate barking is fine → Most other breeds on this list
- If you actually want an alert barker → Chihuahua, Tibetan Spaniel
- Consider your climate.
- Hot climate → Avoid brachycephalic breeds (Japanese Chin, Pekingese, Shih Tzu) due to heat intolerance. Choose Chihuahua, Italian Greyhound, or Xoloitzcuintli instead.
- Cold climate → Avoid hairless/minimally coated breeds (Chinese Crested hairless, Xoloitzcuintli hairless, Italian Greyhound) unless you'll use dog clothing. Choose Pekingese, Shih Tzu, or Tibetan Spaniel.
- Temperate climate → All breeds on this list are viable.
- Assess your activity level.
- Mostly sedentary / homebound → Japanese Chin, Russian Toy, Pekingese (15–20 min/day)
- Light daily walks → Most breeds on this list (20–30 min/day)
- Active with training goals → Papillon (30–45 min/day, excels in agility and obedience sports)
- Set your budget.
- Under $1,000 purchase → Chihuahua (widely available through rescues at $50–$300), Shih Tzu
- $1,000–$2,000 → Most breeds on this list fall in this range
- $2,000+ → Japanese Chin, Chinese Crested, Italian Greyhound from top breeders
- Factor in annual costs: toy breeds typically cost $800–$1,500/year for food, routine vet care, grooming, and preventive medications
Honorable Mentions & Breeds to Skip
Honorable Mentions
These breeds narrowly missed the list and may suit specific situations:
- Affenpinscher: Ancient toy terrier type with a bold personality, but slightly higher energy and terrier-like stubbornness that moves it away from the pure companion archetype
- Havanese: Excellent companion breed, but developed more recently (1800s Cuba) and lacks the ancient lineage that connects other breeds to the Techichi's era
- Coton de Tulear: Similar to the Havanese — a wonderful companion but with a shorter breed history and slightly larger size (up to 15 lb)
Breeds to Avoid If You're Seeking a Techichi-Type Companion
These popular small breeds don't match the Techichi profile for specific reasons:
- Pomeranian: Bred down from working sled dogs — retains high energy, heavy barking, and a thick double coat requiring significant grooming. The opposite of the Techichi's quiet, low-maintenance nature.
- Yorkshire Terrier: Originally a ratter (rat-catching terrier), Yorkies retain a high prey drive and terrier boldness that doesn't match the calm companion profile.
- Miniature Schnauzer: A working farm dog at origin — high energy, frequent barking, and regular professional grooming needs ($50–$75 every 5–8 weeks).
- French Bulldog: While a popular companion, their extreme brachycephalic conformation creates significant health burdens (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, or BOAS), leading to veterinary costs that average $2,000–$5,000 more over a lifetime compared to moderate-faced toy breeds. The AVMA has issued guidance on brachycephalic breed welfare concerns.
Health Considerations for Techichi-Type Toy Breeds
Toy and small breeds share several health vulnerabilities worth understanding before you commit. Consult your veterinarian about breed-specific screening and preventive care.
| Condition | Breeds Most Affected | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Patellar luxation | Chihuahua, Papillon, Italian Greyhound, Russian Toy | Maintain lean body weight; avoid jumping from high furniture; surgical correction if grade III–IV ($1,500–$3,000 per knee) |
| Dental disease | All toy breeds — especially Chihuahua, Maltese, Shih Tzu | Daily tooth brushing; professional dental cleaning every 1–2 years ($300–$700 under anesthesia) |
| Tracheal collapse | Chihuahua, Pomeranian (not listed), Maltese, Papillon | Use a harness instead of a collar; avoid obesity; medical management or surgical stents in severe cases |
| Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) | Japanese Chin, Pekingese, Shih Tzu | Avoid heat/humidity stress; maintain lean weight; surgical correction of stenotic nares and elongated soft palate ($2,000–$5,000) |
| Hypoglycemia | Chihuahua, Russian Toy (especially puppies under 4 months) | Feed small, frequent meals (3–4x/day for puppies); keep Nutri-Cal or corn syrup on hand for emergencies |
For all toy breeds, pet insurance is worth evaluating. Monthly premiums for toy breeds typically run $25–$50 depending on age, location, and coverage level. Given that dental disease alone can cost $300–$700 per cleaning and toy breeds are prone to multiple dental procedures over their lifetime, insurance often pays for itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I actually get a Techichi dog today?
No. The Techichi is an extinct landrace that was absorbed into other dog populations after the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 1500s. No kennel club or breeder offers authentic Techichi dogs. The modern Chihuahua is the closest living descendant, developed from Techichi-lineage dogs in the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the late 1800s.
Why is the Chihuahua ranked #1 on this list?
The Chihuahua is the only breed with a direct, documented genetic and historical line back to the Techichi. DNA studies and historical records both confirm that Chihuahuas were selectively bred from Techichi-type dogs that survived in rural Mexico after the conquest. If your goal is to own a dog as close to the original Techichi as possible, the Chihuahua — particularly a slightly larger, smooth-coated specimen in the 4–6 lb range — is your best option.
How do these breeds compare on lifespan?
Toy breeds generally outlive larger dogs. On this list, the Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli top the chart at 13–18 years, while the Japanese Chin and Shih Tzu are on the shorter end at 10–12 and 10–18 years respectively (Shih Tzu lifespan varies widely by line). The median lifespan across all 12 breeds is approximately 13–14 years.
Which breed is best for a first-time dog owner?
The Papillon and Shih Tzu are generally the most forgiving for first-time owners. Papillons are highly trainable and eager to please, which makes obedience training easier. Shih Tzus are friendly and adaptable, though they require a grooming commitment. Avoid the Brussels Griffon and Pekingese as a first dog — both can be stubborn and require patient, experienced handling during training.
Which breed should I choose if I live in a small apartment?
Prioritize quiet breeds with low exercise needs: the Russian Toy, Japanese Chin, or Italian Greyhound. All three are content with short daily walks and indoor play, and they bark infrequently. Avoid the Chihuahua and Tibetan Spaniel in noise-sensitive apartment buildings — both tend to be vocal watchdogs.
Are these breeds good with children?
Most toy breeds on this list are better suited to homes with older children (8+) or adults only. Their small size makes them fragile — a toddler can accidentally injure a 3 lb Chihuahua or Russian Toy by picking them up incorrectly. The Shih Tzu, Tibetan Spaniel, and Papillon tend to be the most tolerant of gentle, supervised children. Always teach children to interact calmly with small dogs and never leave young children unsupervised with any toy breed.
What is the best [criteria] dog breed overall?
For the specific criteria of "small, ancient or historically significant companion dog with a devoted temperament and apartment-friendly lifestyle" — the criteria that define the Techichi archetype — the Chihuahua is the strongest overall match due to its direct lineage. If you prefer a slightly larger, quieter dog, the Xoloitzcuintli (toy) or Italian Greyhound are excellent alternatives with comparable ancient heritage.
Before you bring any breed home: Research breed-specific health testing requirements. Responsible breeders should provide OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHIP clearances for patellas, cardiac evaluations, and breed-appropriate genetic panels. The AKC's health testing recommendations by breed are a good starting point. Adoption through breed-specific rescues is an equally valid option — many toy breeds end up in rescue due to owner lifestyle changes, not behavioral issues.
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
