Not sure about the structure of the XD striker (although I bet it's the same as glock since everyone called these kind of weapons 'glock-clones'), but you're right, to field strip the XD, you have to dry fire it also. I don't care for that feature, and I think it's removed on the XDm, but nonetheless... i also think it's not an issue with striker-fired (internal hammer) pistols.
Oh, and do yourself a favor... buy the compact or sub-compact XD. Regardless of barrel length, get the shorter grip. You can always add the mag extender to make the weapon have a full-size grip while at the range, but short for CC.