Pet Wiki

Alopekis

Also called Alepuditsa, Alepudoskylo, Venetaki, Zacharoskylo, Tsoupi

Rare breedShort profile

From Greece and neighbouring Balkan areas; one of the oldest dog types of the region.1

At a glance the quick version

Weight4 to 7 kg1
Height25 to 30 cm1
Sizesmall

Average weight range given by Wikipedia for the breed as a whole.

loyal and obedient with its owners
alert, dependable watchdog
versatile small farm helper
1

Coat and looks how to spot one

double coat in three types

A small dog with a double coat that comes in three types: short and smooth, semi-long and tufted, or semi-long and wiry.1

Colourswhiteblackbrownbicolourany colour or combination1

Personality what they are like

Known as a calm, loyal and cooperative little dog that stays watchful around the home and yard.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Traditionally an all-round working dog on farms, used for keeping rodents down, watching over poultry and helping with herding, so it enjoys having jobs and an active routine.1

Company who they like around

Closely attached to its household, a trait valued in its long role as a farm and family dog.1

The story where it all began

Small dogs of this kind have lived alongside people in Greece since before the Mycenaean era, and a Neolithic storage jar from Thessaly (around 3000 BC) is thought to show one. Classical writers such as Aristotle and Xenophon mention it. Today it is a rare native breed without international recognition.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The ancient Greek name alopekis referred to a supposed fox-dog cross, reflecting an old belief about its origin.1

  2. 2

    The oldest known depiction is on a Neolithic pithos from Thessaly, now in a museum in Athens.1

  3. 3

    It goes by many local nicknames across Greece, such as Venetaki and Tsoupi.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name Alopekis comes from the Greek word αλωπεκίς, meaning 'fox-like', referring to the breed's fox-like appearance.2

Name ideas for your new friend

AthenaOliveZorbaNikoMelinaApolloDaphneOuzoThaliaPetroSpirosKiki

A day in the life told by an Alopekis

My day starts with a stretch in the sun, then I check on the chickens. I trot the fence line, bark once at a stray cat, and feel proud. After breakfast, I follow my human to the garden, sniffing for moles. I nap in a warm patch, then help round up the goats before dinner. At night, I curl on the porch, one eye open, guarding my family.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Not recognised by the FCI or the major kennel clubs.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Alopekis. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Alopekis, and at what times?

Feed your Alopekis at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Sticking to set times helps their digestion, and you can ask your vet for a schedule that fits your routine.13 Pet Wiki plan

What should an Alopekis eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a balanced dog food suitable for their size and age, following the label and your vet's advice. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, so keep these away from your Alopekis.14 Pet Wiki plan

How often should I bathe an Alopekis?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if they get dirty or have skin issues. Always use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect their double coat.15 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Alopekis need brushing?

Brush your Alopekis weekly to keep their double coat healthy and reduce shedding. For the semi-long or wiry coat types, you may need to brush a bit more often to prevent tangles.15 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Alopekis's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 3 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how if you're unsure.15 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Alopekis need?

Your Alopekis enjoys an active routine with daily walks and play, as they were bred as working farm dogs. Aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity each day, and they'll love having little jobs to do around the home.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Alopekis's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check their ears weekly, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Gently dry the ears after baths or swimming, and never push anything into the ear canal.15 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Alopekis live?

Alopekis are generally a healthy breed with a good lifespan, but exact years vary. Ask your vet for an estimate based on your dog's health and lineage.1

Is an Alopekis good with children and other pets?

Yes, Alopekis are known as calm, loyal, and cooperative dogs that form close bonds with their household. They are watchful and can get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized.1

Can an Alopekis be left alone?

Alopekis are closely attached to their family and may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to gradually get them used to short absences and provide toys or activities, but consult a trainer or vet for personalized advice.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Wikipedia: Alopekis en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
  2. ekathimerini.com ekathimerini.com
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.