The Miniature Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "sho-lo-eetz-queent-lee") originated in Mexico at least 3,500 year ago and have been found in the tombs of Colima, Mayan, Toltec, Zapotec, and Aztec Native Americans. The Xolo was believed to be sacred with the abilities to guard houses against evil spirits and to heal with its warm body. The Aztecs believed the breed was created by the god Xolotl from the Bone of Life and gifted to man. If man protected the dogs, they would guide their caretaker in the afterlife through Mictlan, the world of Death, toward the Evening Star in the Heavens. The dogs were often sacrificed and buried alongside their caretakers so they could fulfill this duty.