Kokoni
Temperament:
The Kokoni is a real bundle of energy and originally comes from Greece. Translated, Kokoni means "little dog". It has been known since ancient times and can be admired in various illustrations. It is a companion dog that is very suitable as a family dog thanks to its great character. It doesn't matter whether you live in the country or in the city. As long as he gets enough exercise, he feels at home anywhere.
Characteristics
The Kokoni may be small, but it has a lot of energy and wants to be challenged. It comes in two varieties. One is the "Melitaio Kynideo" - known as the Kokoni - with a long coat and the other is a short-haired variety. The latter is also called "Alopekis" and is less common.
As its name suggests, the Kokoni is small in stature. It reaches a height at the withers of 24 to 38 cm and a weight of 4 to 8 kg. This breed comes in all possible colors, both solid and multicolored. The bushy, semi-circular curved tail is characteristic of this breed. The Kokoni is also quite long and has rather thin legs. The head is elongated oval and resembles that of a dachshund. Typical for the Kokoni are the very hairy tipped ears with a tuft of hair growing at the base.
The character of the Kokoni is cheerful, sociable, intelligent, lively, uncomplicated and affectionate. He is a perfect little family dog, but he also wants to be challenged. He has a lot of energy, which he loves to let off on long walks in the countryside. This makes him not only an ideal playmate for families with children, but also for active singles. The Kokoni is a companion dog that prefers to be with its people. Being left alone for too long is a punishment for him!
The Kokoni is easy to train and therefore also suitable for beginners. Nevertheless, it is worth attending a dog training school. This will prevent your pet from becoming an annoying barker.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
When choosing food, make sure that it contains high-quality ingredients, is balanced and meets your dog's requirements. Age, size or weight, activity and health status play an important role. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of food.
Treats should only be fed in moderation and deducted from the basic diet to avoid obesity.
Puppies can be fed 4-6 times a day. The number of meals should be gradually reduced to 2 per day until the dog is fully grown. A rest period should be observed after meals.
Fresh drinking water should be available at all times.
Health & Care
The coconut can live for up to 16 years. Due to its origin, it tolerates heat better than cold. You should therefore not expose it to temperatures that are too low.
Your dog's coat needs grooming. Almost all dogs need to be brushed regularly. This removes dried dirt and excess hair. It's best to start doing this as a puppy so that your furry friend can slowly get used to it.
A bath is not normally necessary. However, if it is necessary, be sure to use a special shampoo for dogs.
Also check the ears regularly for inflammation or foreign bodies such as burrs. Ticks also like to attach themselves to the skin. Check your dog regularly, preferably after every walk. There are various ways to protect your dog. It's best to ask your vet which one is best for your dog.
The Kokoni is an active dog that loves to be with you. He is very intelligent. You can teach him tricks. Other activities are agility or dog dancing. The important thing is that you and your dog enjoy it. As the Kokoni is a very child-friendly dog, it can also be trained as a reading dog for schools. You then go into a class with your dog and a pupil can read to your dog. This sounds a bit absurd at first, but it has a high educational value. The child reads to the dog without any pressure to perform, the dog "listens" attentively and motivates the child to read on.
Suitable accessories
You need a cozy place to sleep for your cocoon. It should be in a quiet corner and offer your dog a place to retreat to. It must not be too big, otherwise your dog will feel lost. As your dog is small, it is easy to take with you when traveling. It is therefore worth investing in a good travel bag for dogs. After all, your dog should feel safe and comfortable while traveling.
Safety is also important when transporting your dog in the car. Your dog must be adequately secured, i.e. transported in a crate or strapped in.
Of course you will need a collar or harness for your Kokoni. A harness is suitable for dogs in training that are very agile and still like to pull on the lead. A harness is also more comfortable when walking on a tow lead. A collar strangles the neck if too much force is applied, whereas a harness does not.
A distinction is made between short leashes, retractable leashes and drag leashes. Leads are important in the city, where you always want to have your dog with you. Trailing leads are ideal for the outdoors. They are several meters long and your dog "pulls" them behind him. This gives him plenty of room to sniff around, but you are always in control.
When it gets dark earlier in the dark season, a luminous collar is a sensible purchase. Your dog will be more visible to others and won't be an obstacle for cyclists.
Of course, your dog also needs something to do at home. These can be cuddly toys, old socks, tennis balls and much more. Intelligence toys are also useful for your nimble and intelligent cocoon.
Other accessories that are part of every dog's basic equipment: water and food bowl, tick tweezers, claw clippers, mild dog shampoo, brush and comb, toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs and a first aid kit. Ask your vet what belongs in the first aid kit.
Origin & History
The Kokoni was bred as a companion and social dog, but has not yet been recognized by the FCI. It has only been recognized as an official breed in Greece since 2005. It is therefore mainly known in Greece. There are not yet any professional breeders. As it is becoming increasingly well-known abroad due to tourism, it now also has an English name, namely "Small Greek Domestic Dog".
