Pet Wiki

Kokoni

Also called Κοκόνι

Recognised breedShort profile

From Greece.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight4 to 8 kg12
Height, male24 to 28 cm1
Height, female23 to 27 cm1
Sizetoy
lively and cheerful
smart
loyal
1

Coat and looks how to spot one

double coat, straight to wavy

A small dog, longer than tall, with a triangular head, drop ears and a tail curving in a half circle. The outer coat is fine and long over a short dense undercoat; hair is short on the head and forelegs, medium on the body and longest on the tail and hindquarters.12

Coloursall colours and combinations12

Personality what they are like

A bright, happy little dog that is quick-witted and loyal to its household. Alert by nature, it happily takes on the role of a small watchdog.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Regular brushing keeps the longer body and tail hair tidy and free of tangles.1

Home where they are happiest

Small enough for house or flat living, and traditionally just as at home on a farm.1

Company who they like around

Kept for thousands of years as a family companion, it enjoys being part of home life.12

The story where it all began

Small companion dogs like the Kokoni appear on ancient Greek pottery, statuettes and coins from as early as the fifth century BCE, showing a long bond with Greek families. The traditional household dog was formally recognised by the Kennel Club of Greece in 2004.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Dogs resembling the Kokoni are painted on Greek vases dating to the fifth century BCE.2

  2. 2

    Besides being a companion, it has been used to guard small farm animals.1

  3. 3

    The breed standard accepts every colour and combination of colours.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name “Kokoni” comes from Greek, translating to “small dog” or “favourite”. Internationally, the breed is also known as “Small Greek Domestic Dog”.3

Name ideas for your new friend

AthenaZoeNikoKiraBellaOuzoMeloFetaAriaLakiRheaSaki

A day in the life told by a Kokoni

This morning, I woke up before the sun and did my rounds, a quick sniff under the door, a happy bark at the mailman. Then I curled up on the sofa with my human, who laughed when I tucked my head under her arm. After breakfast, I chased a sunbeam across the floor, then sat by the window to announce every passing pigeon. In the afternoon, I helped my human fold laundry by stealing a sock. We ended the day with a belly rub and a cozy nap. Perfect.

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

Recognised by the official bits

Kennel Club of Greece
Recognised in 2004 (per Wikipedia); the club classes it with companion and toy dogs (FCI Group 9 scheme).1
FCI
Not in the FCI breed nomenclature.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Kokoni. 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 Kokoni, and at what times?

Feed your adult Kokoni at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A consistent schedule helps their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should a Kokoni eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for its size and age. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for the best diet plan.5

How often should I bathe a Kokoni?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Adjust if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Kokoni need brushing?

Furry Diary's starting plan is to brush weekly, but because the Kokoni has a double coat with longer hair on the tail and hindquarters, you may need to brush more often to prevent tangles. Check with a good breeder for your dog's specific coat needs.16 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Kokoni's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks or when you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small amounts, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Kokoni need?

Daily walks and playtime are important for this bright, happy breed. They are small and adapt to flat living but still need regular activity. Start with at least 30 minutes of exercise daily and adjust to your dog's energy level.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Kokoni's teeth and ears?

Brush your Kokoni's teeth daily if possible, using dog toothpaste. Check their floppy ears weekly for moisture and dirt, and dry them gently. Never insert anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Kokoni live?

Lifespan varies by individual health and care. Ask your vet for an estimate based on your dog's lineage and overall condition.

Is a Kokoni good with children and other pets?

As a family companion for centuries, the Kokoni is generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Always supervise interactions and introduce new pets gradually.12

Can a Kokoni be left alone?

The Kokoni enjoys being with its family and may not do well if left alone for long periods. Provide toys and a comfortable space, and consider a pet sitter if you are away often.12

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. Kennel Club of Greece: Kokoni koe.grused for history, classification, temperament, size, coat, colours, uses
  2. Wikipedia: Kokoni en.wikipedia.orgused for recognition year, FCI status, history (secondary)
  3. zooplus.co.uk zooplus.co.uk
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

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