User:Kaitlin3farrell/Calupoh

'''Although the Calupoh is a registered breed, there is very limited information as it is newer. Any information pertaining to this breed had to be translated from Spanish as it is the Mexican Wolf-Dog. I did not feel comfortable adding this to the main article knowing that while the information was from a primary source, the Mexican Government and the creators of the breed, there was limited documentation other than that source. As a result, I made the last minute decision to edit another article.'''

The Calupoh, also referred to as the Mexican wolf-dog, is a rare breed that has a mix of both dog and wolf ancestry, and it is originally from Mexico. This unique canine is known for its strength and agility, which it has inherited from its ancestor, the gray wolf. The Calupoh is suitable for any activity level, and its stunning black, thick fur coat and sleek body make it stand out from other dog breeds. While the Calupoh has a primitive nature, it was bred specifically to be a companion animal, although some experts recommend using it as a herding dog due to its instincts.

History
Wolf-dog fossils have been discovered worldwide for thousands of years, indicating their long existence and significance. The Mexican wolf-dog, in particular, has fossils dating back to pre-Columbian Mexico when the Aztecs lived there. Over time, the breed has gained recognition and acceptance in Mexico. In 1999, the kennel club of Mexico, Federación Canófila Mexicana, officially recognized it after researchers discovered the first hybrid in the Teotihuacán Valley.

According to researcher Bernardo Rodríguez, the newly found fossil was a hybrid between a dog and a wolf. Since then, several wolf-dog hybrids have been discovered in a pre-Hispanic context, indicating that they were the main canine during that time. The remains of the Calupoh have been found across Mexico, from high Mixteca in the south to the Mayan zone in the southeast and Xcambo. The remains were discovered in the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, also known as The Temple of the Feathered Serpent, the third largest pyramid at Teotihuacan, a pre-Columbian site in central Mexico. The remains were hanging on the necks of Teotihuacan elites, suggesting that the creature had high spiritual and social significance.

Since then, remains of the Calupoh have also been found in the Pyramid of the Moon as offerings and in the Templo Mayo r in Tenochtitlan, Mexico, associated with sacrifices, further emphasizing their importance in the region's culture. In these cities, it was common practice to crossbree d the Mexican wolf with the dogs to produce the loyal companion, the Calupoh, and the Aztecs would gift these magnificent creatures to their gods.

In ancient Mexico, it was common to perform rituals as a way of offering to Mother Nature and to ensure prosperity. The Aztecs had a unique way of achieving these rituals. They adorned wolves and related wolf-hybrids, such as the Calupoh, with precious metals, pendants, and ornaments. These animals would then be placed into a box along with the remains of other animals. The hybrids were considered to represent Huitzilopochtli, the Aztec god of war and the sun, and their sacrifice was seen as a means to help guide a fellow warrior as an escort to the underworld.

Unfortunately, the Mexican Gray Wolf has become the most endangered subspecies due to genetic reasons, human extermination through trapping, hunting, and poisoning, and loss of habitat. Until the previous century, the wolf was a typical inhabitant of Mexican territory. As a result of their lessened population, the Calupoh breed is now extremely rare. Since 2016, breeders have been working to reintroduce this breed back to the public by crossbreeding crossbreeding black German Shepherds with gray wolves.

Description
The Calupoh is a canine breed that developed from the genetic crossing of wolves and domestic dogs. According to the University of Stanford, Calupohs' black coat color is due to a genetic mutatio n that originated from the gray wolf's coat mutation and was carried over to wolves through hybridization with domestic dogs. Biologist Adolph Murie was one of the first to observe this interbreeding and the resulting dark-coated variation, regardless of the environment in which it occurred. This information has also been supported by Dr. Gregory S. Barsh, a genetics professor at the University of Stanford, who used molecular genetic techniques to analyze DNA sequences in the Calupoh and discovered that a genetic mutation responsible for the beta-defensin three protein, known as the K locus, was the determinant of black coat color.

The Calupoh is a breed that resembles the grey wolf and is known for its dominating appearance. The breed standard height at the withers is 62 - 75 cm for males and 58 - 70 cm for females, with males being slightly taller. Calupohs have well-structured, balanced, and masculine bodies, with well-angled shoulders that help maintain their agility. Their neck carries a high line from the occipital crest, and upon maturity, they grow a mane similar to that of the grey wolf, enhancing their robust appearance. Calupohs have highly pigmented black noses, lips, and a full dentition scissor bite with well-structured teeth. Their cheeks appear defined upon maturity, showcasing their strength and power. The Calupohs' eyes are highly expressive and almond-shaped, with yellow tones similar to those of the grey wolf. They also have thick, erect ears that stand at attention, adding to their impressive and commanding presence.

The Calupoh's double-layered hair is medium in length and features a rougher texture on the outside to provide weather resistance to the elements. The breed standard prefers entirely black or smoky black coats, which can turn silver over time like their ancestors. While wolf dogs born in alternative colors such as white, sable, or a mixture of these colors will be accepted, these traits are considered undesirable for the breed. Spots on the chest or feet and brown socks are permitted, but they will not be accepted if these traits are on any other part of the body.

Temperament
The Calupoh is a breed of dog that was originally bred to be a companion and can adapt to a wide range of activities. They are known for being loyal to their family, much like the German Shepherd. With proper socialization, they can also live with other dogs. However, they tend to remain aloof to strangers, similar to wolves. It is important to note that proper socialization is necessary for these dogs to resort to their wolf instincts and to behave well in social situations. They may be nervous in new situations and bolt away from crowds and loud noises. If left alone, they may become destructive and may need to escape. Sometimes, it may be difficult to recall them as they often listen poorly to commands unless they see a reward.

Breed Concerns
Canine-wolf hybrids, like the Calupoh, are known to pose certain health concerns. These dogs can inherit various breed-specific problems like eye issues, respiratory problems, obesity, and hip problems that can be detrimental to their health. However, many of these problems are only a result of poor breeding practices. If a poorly bred dog is crossed with a wolf, these issues may become even more pronounced.

Like any other breed of dog, the Calupoh is also prone to faults. If any of the following faults are present, the canine will no longer be considered breed standard: crooked limbs or cowhocks, non-typical coat colors (such as sable and white), and lack of pigmentation on the lips. Other potential faults are pink-colored lips or eyelids, cryptorchidism, occlusion, and/or missing teeth. In such cases, these dogs should not be bred to prevent their genetics from entering the gene pool of the population at large. It is essential to prioritize the well-being and genetic health of the Calupoh breed to ensure its continued success in the future.