Kokoni

Kokonis develop strong bonds with their caregivers. They crave a lot of attention and therefore do not like to be left alone for long periods. Due to their small size, this breed can also be kept in a city apartment. However, the little four-legged friend should not have to climb too many stairs.

A house in the countryside, where it can keep guard, suits this dog’s tastes. The little one enjoys being outdoors and loves scampering through a securely fenced garden. Yet, just as enjoyable are lengthy walks and plenty of attention from its owners.

Because of its fondness for children, the Kokoni can be trained as a therapy or school support dog. One possible job might be as a reading dog that listens patiently to students practising their reading skills.

Dog sports with the Kokoni

Active, lively dogs like the Kokoni are suitable for a wide range of dog sports. For instance, Dogdance is an option for the agile Southerner, as well as Agility, provided that the obstacles are adjusted to its size. The clever little fellow enjoys learning small tricks and can be kept busy with intelligence toys.

The medium to long coat of the Kokoni should be regularly brushed. This helps remove dirt and loose fur bolstering the bond between dog and owner.

In addition, this breed’s lop ears require a bit of attention, as they can quickly develop infections. After walks, the dog’s skin should also be checked for ticks.

The right food for the Kokoni

Regarding nutrition, this unassuming dog isn’t particularly fussy. It is recommended to buy high-quality, grain-free food that supports the animal’s health. Barf, dry, and wet food are all suitable, though with dry food, a variety with small kibbles for small breeds should be chosen.

The Kokoni is considered a robust dog. No breed-specific hereditary diseases are known. No surprise: The breed is widespread in Greece, and the gene pool is vast. Often, the animals live (semi-)wild on the streets and reproduce uncontrollably.

Professional breeding is rare. Thus, specific features are neither selectively bred nor are the animals purposefully crossed. Most are private owners who simply pass on their puppies to friends and neighbours.

Mediterranean diseases in Greek dogs

Among all Greek dog breeds, so-called Mediterranean diseases are widespread, which are infections transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, or other parasites.

Anyone wanting to adopt a dog from Greece should definitely have it tested for Leishmaniasis, Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, and other Mediterranean diseases to avoid introducing them to their home country.

How long do Kokonis live?

Like many small dog breeds, Kokonis can reach a rather high age. With proper care, they can live up to 16 years.

The Kokoni has a long history, having been kept as domestic and yard dogs since antiquity. For example, depictions of the animals can be found on ancient vases. And the famous philosopher and naturalist Aristotle is said to have reported on the popular four-legged friend.

Nonetheless, it was not until 2005 that Kokoni was officially recognised as a distinct breed in Greece. International recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is still pending to this day. One of the reasons for this is likely the inconsistent appearance of the animals: Kokonis come in all fur colours, so they tend to look more like mixed breeds than pedigree dogs.

Kokoni or Alopekis?

The Kokoni and another Greek dog breed, the Alopekis, look quite similar. Some dog enthusiasts even believe they are the same breed – with the Kokoni as the long-haired variant and the Alopekis as the short-haired representative.

Indeed, there are significant overlaps between the two breeds in terms of origin, nature, and appearance. However, only the long-haired variant, the Kokoni, is officially recognised as a dog breed at the national level in Greece.