Kokoni
Small Greek Domestic Dog, Militeo Kinidio
The Kokoni breed, commonly known as the Small Greek Domestic Dog, is a small yet cherished companion that has held a special place in Greek homes for hundreds of years. Renowned for their durability, these dogs are not only playful and smart but also exceptionally adaptable. Throughout history, they have been valued by both the affluent and the less privileged, even managing to flourish as strays in the lively streets of ancient Greece. Their sharp intellect and desire to please make them easily trainable for a variety of roles, from canine performers to therapy animals, highlighting their versatility and appeal.
Breed Origin
The Kokoni dog, commonly referred to as the Small Greek Domestic Dog, traces its origins back to Malta and has been closely linked to Greek culture for centuries. Alongside their slightly larger counterparts, the Alopekis—previously thought to be a variation of the same breed—these dogs boast a rich yet somewhat obscured history. Although much of their ancestry has faded from public consciousness, ancient artifacts like wall paintings, vases, coins, and pottery often depict these small dogs as devoted companions to women and children, particularly within aristocratic families. Throughout history, these dogs have fulfilled various roles, especially for families of modest means. They excelled as hunting partners, adept at tracking and capturing small game, including mammals and birds. Moreover, they were essential in managing pests around homes and barns and occasionally assisted in herding livestock. Those without a permanent home often thrived as street dogs in the lively cities of Greece. Thanks to unrestricted breeding practices, the Kokoni has emerged as a notably resilient breed, free from many of the common health issues that plague other breeds. While they are well-loved in Greece and its neighboring regions, their presence is limited outside their homeland, and they have yet to receive recognition from major kennel clubs. Nonetheless, they have been acknowledged by the Greek Kennel Club, and a Small Greek Domestic Dog made a cameo in the 2005 film "Bewitched," inspired by the classic television series that aired from 1964 to 1972.
Breed Appearance
The Kokoni is a small breed known for its slightly elongated body in relation to its height at the withers. It boasts sturdy, straight legs that end in small, round paws, and a long, feathered tail that gracefully arches over its back. The breed has a compact, gently rounded head with a short, tapered muzzle and medium-sized triangular ears that fold forward. Its eyes are typically round to almond-shaped and dark brown, though they can come in various colors, excluding blue. The Kokoni's coat is double-layered and silky, featuring a dense undercoat, with a moderate length that is shorter around the face and legs. This breed showcases a wide range of colors and patterns, including combinations of black and tan, white with blonde, rust, or black spots, as well as tricolor variations, often highlighted by a white blaze on the face.
Care Routine
The Kokoni needs to be brushed and combed daily to remove any dirt or tangles from its coat, but this grooming process is typically simple and should only take a few minutes. Bathing should occur about once a month to keep the fur looking silky and shiny. Furthermore, it's essential to trim or file their nails as needed to prevent breakage. Smaller breeds, such as the Kokoni, are more prone to dental problems than larger dogs, so regular teeth brushing is recommended. Additionally, checking their ears regularly for dirt, wax, or other debris is crucial in preventing ear infections.
Behavior & Temperament
For centuries, these small dogs have been beloved as charming and sociable companions across the Greek islands, largely due to their amiable nature. They are known for their affectionate and protective instincts, often desiring to snuggle up with their owners in bed. While they typically interact well with both adults and children, it's advisable to supervise their playtime with younger or more active kids to ensure the little dog's safety. Generally friendly towards strangers, they may occasionally exhibit territorial tendencies and a sense of possessiveness over their owners. Historically, these dogs also served a role in pest control within households, and they maintain a strong instinct to chase. Although their small size poses little threat to larger cats, they might pursue and catch smaller creatures like rodents. Their intelligence further enhances their trainability, allowing them to quickly grasp new commands.
Play & Exercise
These dogs are energetic and smart, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and content. They have a keen eagerness to satisfy their owners and are sensitive to their needs, which enhances their trainability and makes them perfect for various activities such as agility training, canine freestyle dance, and barn hunting. Some sources indicate that they still exhibit herding instincts, making them suitable for activities like treibball. Their versatility enables them to thrive in both large homes and compact apartments.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
1.0 Cups
Daily Activity
45 Minutes
Average Lifespan
15 Years
Origin
Unknown
Type
Pure Breeds
Size
Small
Origin Country
Malta
Brush Frequency
Daily
Coat Texture
Wavy
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Height & Weight
Weight
14 lbs (6 kg)Male: 14 lbs (6 kg) , Female: 14 lbs (6 kg)
Height
10 inches (25 sm)Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 10 inches (25 sm)
6 Months
10 lbs ( m 10 lbs, f 10 lbs )
9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )
12 Months
13 lbs ( m 13 lbs, f 13 lbs )
10 inches ( m 10 inches, f 10 inches )
18 Months
13 lbs ( m 13 lbs, f 13 lbs )
10 inches ( m 10 inches, f 10 inches )
Eye Colors
Hazel
Brown
Amber
Nose Colors
Black
Brown
Coat Colors
White
Pied
Fawn
Isabella
Red
Brown
Black
