The Small Greek Domestic Dog is an ancient breed of the Hellenic (Greek) dog known as Meliteo Kinidio. They are widely found in Greece.

Appearance

This breed

Breed

A breed is a group of domestic animals or plants with a homogeneous appearance, behavior, and other characteristics that distinguish it from other animals or plants of the same species. Despite the centrality of the idea of "breeds" to animal husbandry, there is no scientifically accepted...

 of dog

Dog

The domestic dog is a domesticated form of the gray wolf, a member of the Canidae family of the order Carnivora. The term is used for both feral and pet varieties. The dog may have been the first animal to be domesticated, and has been the most widely kept working, hunting, and companion animal in...

 is of a medium size ranging from approximately 20-25 pounds. They have dropped ears, short snout, long body, with long curved tail. This breed also comes in a large array of colors and combinations of colors, such as; black and tan, blonde, and white. They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club

American Kennel Club

The American Kennel Club is a registry of purebred dog pedigrees in the United States. Beyond maintaining its pedigree registry, this kennel club also promotes and sanctions events for purebred dogs, including the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, an annual event which predates the official...

. They are often confused with the Longhaired Dachshund or a Cocker Spaniel mix.

Coat

The coat of the Small Greek Domestic Dog is of good quality, and is easy to groom. There are two types of coats for this dog. One is called the longhaired coat, and the other is called the shorthaired coat. The longhaired coat is the most common.Sometimes, it is slightly wavy, but it should always feel silky.

Tail

The sickle-shaped tail of the Small Greek Domestic Dog is usually long. The dog holds its tail up high, and has an elegant curve. It is always in motion, showing the dog's joy. The coat of this dog forms a brush under its tail.

Eyes

This breed of dog has large eyes which vary in shape from round to more of an almond shape. They are bright, intelligent, and are not deep-set. The color goes with the color of the coat, but they will never be transparent or blue.

Muzzle, nose and jaws

The muzzle "tapers easily to the nose", and the topline is level. The nose of the Small Greek Domestic Dog has well-opened nostrils. It is not too large compared to the muzzle, and it is moist, flat, and level on the front surface. The Small Greek Domestic Dog has strong jaws with scissor-bite teeth.

Temperament

The Small Greek Domestic Dog has an even temper and gentle disposition. They are amiable and not generally aggressive or timid. They enjoy company, and although they may initially be standoffish with strangers, they are easily won over. They are very intelligent and are easily trained. They are very loving and protective. They have a loud, strong bark for their size though they do not bark much.

Health

The breed has good longevity and lives into their late teens. Major health issues are unknown. As with many dogs, they love to jump. With their long back, jumping can lead to injury and should be discouraged. Other health issues can be minor dental issues and cataracts late in life.

Famous Small Greek Domestic Dogs

The blonde dog known as "Satchel" in the 2005 movie Bewitched with Nicole Kidman and Will Ferrell is a Small Greek Domestic Dog.