Quick Facts
- Weight: 5 – 10 pounds
- Height: 10 – 11 inches
The Look of a Mi ki
The Mi-Ki has a small, compact frame covered in either a smooth or long coat that can come in almost any color. It has a small, apple-shaped head with a very short muzzle, large round eyes, wide nostrils and feathered ears that can be erect or hanging. Its medium-length, plumed tail carries over the back. Overall, this dog has a sweet and refined look.
Traits
- Quiet
- Calm
- Smart
- Loyal
- Cuddly
Ideal Human Companion
- Retirees
- City dwellers
- Families
What They Are Like to Live With
Though small and cute, the Mi-Ki is alert, friendly and full of personality. Around the home it is gentle, loving and affectionate. The dog is also known for being a polite and gracious host when friends come over to visit. However, it also has a protective side: This quiet and calm canine can really bark when it senses a threat. The Mi-Ki has a steady, easygoing personality, but it also has a quiet confidence around dogs, cats and other pets.
Things You Should Know
The Mi-Ki can live as long as 16 years with relatively few genetic health problems. Some may develop respiratory problems due to their short muzzles. The Mi-Ki should be brushed every week. To help keep it clean, consider having a professional shave its face and feet regularly.
History
No one knows for sure when or how the Mi-Ki came to be, but we do know that they first appeared in the U.S. in the 1980s. Believed to be a cross between various Asian breeds—e.g. the Papillon, the Maltese and the Shih Tzu—the Mi-Ki is considered by some to be an “American-made” breed.