This abstract representation of a dog bears only a loose resemblance to the original animal. The surface of this figure is smooth, which represented a variety of animals in Mexico bred with little or no hair. The function that dogs played in Ancient Mexico varies from sacrifices, medicinal practices, calendared significance, food staple and symbolism in art. The sculpture of the dog was associated with funerary rites. The dog was either the companion of the dead in the afterworld or he was a source of food. However, this lovely little dog was undoubtedly a companion for the deceased, much as he is a companion for the living today.