I'm Ricardo Y., the breeder behind Cen Cal Xoloitzcuintle located in Atwater, CA. We love to responsibly raise and train our puppies so they have the tools to be well-rounded, beloved family members. Our puppies become integral members of our family. They’re a daily part of everything we do until they’re ready to join their forever families.
Q. & A. with Ricardo
Why did you start breeding?
My love for animals led me to work in vet care, grooming, and even a zoo, but the Xoloitzcuintli captured my heart. Their intelligence, loyalty, and history inspired me to start breeding responsibly. I focus on quality, socialization, and matching puppies with the best homes. It’s a passion-driven journey that allows me to preserve and improve this amazing breed.
What makes your program special?
My program prioritizes health, temperament, and responsible placement. Puppies are raised in a loving, hands-on environment with early socialization to ensure they grow into confident companions. I carefully screen homes and provide ongoing support to new owners. My goal isn’t just to breed Xolos—it’s to raise exceptional dogs who thrive in their forever homes.
What are the different breed sizes in your program?
Our puppies are toy size. Sizes will vary depending on the parent dogs.
What are the different breed coat types in your program?
Our puppies include hairless and coated coat varieties. Coat types may vary depending on the parent dogs.
What are the different breed coat colors in your program?
Our puppies include black, black and white, slate, and red. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.
Where do your breeding dogs live?
They live in my home.
Matched dogs
These dogs are already reserved or have gone home.
Bjorn
Went home
Male
Freya
Went home
Female
Astrid
Went home
Female
Søren
Went home
Male
Boy 4
Went home
Male
Aponi
Went home
Female
Tayen
Went home
Female
Tecumseh
Went home
Male
Kele
Went home
Male
Alo
Went home
Male
Ixchel (Lady rainbow)
Went home
Female
"Rini" ( one who is like a little sweet bunny)
Went home
Female
"Nara" ( flower from heaven)
Went home
Female
Chō ('butterfly ' in Japanese)
Went home
Female
Nila
Went home
Female
Arman
Went home
Male
Ramin
Went home
Male
Navid
Went home
Male
Kian
Went home
Male
Darius
Went home
Male
Roya
Went home
Female
Getting a puppy from Ricardo
Ricardo has been certified by Good Dog’s screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you’re ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies.
Together, you’ll choose the puppy that’s right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Price
Puppy prices include a $500 non-refundable deposit and between $2,300 - $3,200 final payment, before taxes & fees.
Pay over time with Klarna.
“The price includes a guarantee, AKC registration, first round of vaccines and puppy socialization. All our puppies are priced the same regardless of size and color. Registration and vaccination is included.”
Contract & health guarantee
Ricardo may provide a written contract or
health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps
protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you
both have a clear understanding of the terms of your
puppy purchase. If Ricardo offers a contract
or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them.
If you have any questions or want to know more,
don’t hesitate to reach out to Ricardo directly.
Cen Cal Xoloitzcuintle meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Responsible breeding practices
Health of breeding dogs and puppies
Puppy environment and enrichment
Buyer education and policies
Litter and program updates
Ricardo Y.
Litter update on 20 Mar. •
✨ Six-Week Puppy Update! ✨
Time is flying! Our Toy Xoloitzcuintli puppies are officially six weeks old, and they’ve hit some big milestones. They’ve fully transitioned to solid food, gotten their first baths, and have been exploring nonstop! Their little personalities are shining through, and they are more playful, curious, and active than ever.
Each pup has their own quirks that make them special:
🐾 Luna is a bold little explorer, always the first to check out something new. She loves attention and isn’t afraid to be the center of it!
🐾 Huitlacoche is sweet, affectionate, and loves to be held. She’s quick on her feet but also enjoys her naps—true balance!
🐾 Bjorn is calm and easygoing, the definition of a chill pup. He loves his food, his naps, and his little adventures.
🐾 Soren is the funniest of the bunch, always rolling around during playtime and “pedaling” his legs when picked up. He’s just a happy little guy!
🐶 Socialization & Development 🐶
At this stage, the puppies are like little toddlers (equivalent to a 2-3 year old human)—full of curiosity and energy! They’ve been exposed to different textures, sounds, and even musical stimulation to help with their development. They’re doing great with potty training and adjusting to all the new sights, smells, and experiences that will prepare them for their forever homes.
⏳ What’s Next?
In just two weeks, they’ll be heading to their new families! Before that, they’ll visit the vet for their vaccinations, microchips, and health certificates. When they go home, they’ll also be bringing a go-home package with all the essentials to help them transition smoothly.
I can’t wait to see these little ones with their new families soon!
…
Tona and Atzi's litter
Ricardo Y.
Litter update on 08 Mar. •
Three-Week Puppy Update! 🐾✨
Our Toy Xoloitzcuintli pups are thriving! Their eyes are open, they’re wobbling around, and their playful personalities are shining. They’re making tiny barks, exploring more, and getting ready to try solid food. Plus, they’re already rocking puppy pad training! Exciting milestones ahead—stay tuned for more adorable updates! 🖤🐾
…
Tona and Atzi's litter
Ricardo Y.
Litter update on 02 Mar. •
Puppy Update!
Our little ones are growing fast! They’re getting big and strong, climbing up to mama for feeding time. Their eyes are open, and they’re starting to explore their surroundings. They’re also getting familiar with the puppy pads—already using them for potty time! It’s amazing to see them moving around more each day. Stay tuned for more updates!
…
Tona and Atzi's litter
Ricardo Y.
Program update on 27 Feb. •
They are all growing so fast, just started opening their eyes and are beginning to explore their surroundings. I can't wait to see how their little personalities start developing.
…
Parent dogs
Atzi, mom
Xoloitzcuintli
About Atzi
Atzi, your Toy Xoloitzcuintli dam, is the heart and soul of the home. A devoted mother and natural nurturer, she cares for her puppies with warmth and patience. She’s incredibly affectionate, always wanting to be by your side, whether it’s snuggling up or just keeping you company. Atzi’s intelligence shines through in everything she does, and her loving nature makes her a joy to be around. With her playful spirit and boundless energy, she brings life to the house, making every moment brighter.
Tona, dad
Xoloitzcuintli
About Tona
Tona, your Toy Xoloitzcuintli sire, is a lively little powerhouse! Bursting with energy, he’s always ready to play, whether it’s chasing toys or showing off his agility. His confidence shines through in everything he does, yet he’s incredibly obedient, eager to please, and quick to follow commands. With his fun-loving personality and endless enthusiasm, Tona keeps everyone entertained while proving himself as both a playful companion and a well-mannered gentleman.
Verified owner stories
Hear what other owners say about working with Ricardo to bring home their puppies.
Natalie L.
Verified owner · Dec. 2023
I am utterly overjoyed to share my experience with Ricardo and his wonderful breeding service at Ricardo’s Pups. Our delightful mini Xoloitzcuintli, Nara, is settling into our home with such ease, it's as if she was meant to be with us all along. Ricardo’s outstanding support and communication throughout the adoption process have been instrumental in this seamless transition.
The genuine care Ricardo shows for his pups is a rare find. He truly loves them, and it's been an extraordinary journey seeing that love extend to us as Nara joined our family. His regular updates with photos and videos kept the excitement alive and helped us feel connected to Nara from the very first day.
Nara herself is a bundle of joy – she adores cuddles, is always ready for playtime, and has formed an inseparable bond with our other dog. Her quirky little personality shines through in everything she does, bringing laughter and happiness into our home daily. She's not just a pet; she's a companion, a source of endless entertainment and comfort.
A huge thank you to Ricardo for his dedication to his pups and the love he spreads through them. His commitment to early socialization has truly paid off, making Nara a well-adjusted, sociable, and utterly charming addition to our family. We feel incredibly blessed to have such an exceptional dog. Much love and heartfelt thanks to Ricardo and his family!
---
MW
Michele W.
Verified owner · Dec. 2023
We had a great experience. Ricardo and his family are wonderful people. You can tell they really love their dogs and puppies.
Ricardo frequently updated us regarding our growing sweet puppy Cleo. He sent pictures, videos, and told us all about her personality and any new experiences. Cleo was treated with love and kindness which made her a well adjusted puppy. She was crate trained and well on her way to being potty trained when we picked her up. I would highly recommend Ricardo's Pups!