The Kokoni (or Small Greek Domestic Dog) is a tiny Greek breed with lots of heart and courage. Although his ancestors are ancient, it is only lately that he has been established as a standardized breed by the Kennel Club of Greece. As of this time, he is not recognized anywhere else. Extremely loyal, he adores his human family and makes a fantastic companion – the job that he was exclusively bred to do. This is an active and alert breed with an intelligent brain and a cheery disposition. His jolly antics and sense of humor provide plenty of entertainment! He even makes a fine watchdog, a decent ratter, and in a pinch will even hunt birds and small game!
When spoiled rotten and given no training, the Kokoni can develop “small dog syndrome” and attempt to take over the household and/or develop possessive behaviors. Don’t let him do that! Training is important for all dogs and little dogs are no exception! Luckily this breed is easily trained and will gladly take to house rules if obedience and manners are practiced regularly. Eager to please, he can be a well-mannered therapy dog or an obedience star if given the guidance to do so. If an owner were so inclined, he could even be trained in dog sports such as canine freestyle, agility and barn hunt. Some say that he even has enough herding instincts (from his ancestors) to allow him to be worked in treibball – a safer alternative to actual herding for this tiny toy.
Kokonis require daily walks to stay in shape and keep their minds/bodies sharp, although walks don’t need to be overly long. They can easily live in apartments or small homes because of their size and their adaptability. A walk combined with vigorous playtime will keep most Kokonis happy and content. Owners should be prepared to keep this up for the majority of the 16-18 years that their Kokoni will likely live – this is a breed with a long lifespan!
As stated above, the Kokoni is a tiny breed that often weighs less than 10 pounds and stands no taller than 11 inches for a big male. The double coat is medium-long in length and can be straight or slightly wavy. All colors and color combinations are acceptable which give them a rainbow of possibilities in appearance. The body is longer than it is tall, and the face sports ears which are triangular and hang down. The tail should curl around and touch the back when alert or on the move, although is often seen hanging normally when resting.
The Kokoni is fairly quiet most of the time although when they do see fit to bark, it is louder than one might imagine! When meeting strangers for the first time they might be more apt to bark and it may take them a little while to warm up. This said, once they get to know a person they are often very happy to have a new friend as they enjoy the company of people. With new owners, this same rule may apply as they take their time to decide that they will “adopt the person as their own”! Once that bond is formed however, it will last forever and their gentle, happy-go-lucky personalities will shine through. A Kokoni with a developed bond is devoted and loyal for life. This is a breed with a steady temperament that isn’t known for aggression or shyness as long as they were properly raised and socialized.
The Kokoni gets along well with children but all interactions must be supervised to make sure he doesn’t get hurt. For this reason, he isn’t recommended for those with very young toddler-age kids. He does have a medium energy level so has plenty of gumption to play without being overbearing (either physically or otherwise). He also is usually fine for novice dog owners as long as they are able to meet his moderate needs. Overall, although he’s virtually unknown in the United States, this is a popular breed in Greece for a reason!