Alopekis
Country of origin Greece Classification and breed standards Not recognized by any major kennel club The Alopekis is a primitive breed of dog originating in Greece, and was once considered to be the same breed as the Meliteo Kinidio, just a different type. The Alopekis is considered to be a rare dog. // AppearanceThe Alopekis is a small dog that is slightly longer than it is tall and usually stands between 8 – 12 inches, weighing 6 to 15 pounds. Movement should be swift and graceful, and the tail is sickle shaped. The head is wedge-shaped with pricked ears and a smart expression. The muzzle is deep and broad at its root, but tapers evenly to the nose without point, or being undershot. The skull is slightly domed and broad for ample brain room, and the cheeks are developed but not prominent. The eyes of the Alopekis are large and round being neither protruding or deep-set with well-fitting eye lids. Its coat is relatively short, should be double-coated, and smooth, it can be of any shade, solid or parti-coloured. The Alopekii are known for their graceful swimming and hunting abilities. They often have been used as gift dogs for ancient rulers. Diarrhoea is a common problem among Alopekii. TemperamentThis dog is bred primarily for its personality and temperament. The Alopekis is an intelligent, energetic, multi-purpose utility and companion dog. It is tireless, eager to please, easy to train, and of a pleasant disposition. It is an excellent hunting dog, valued for it’s high-prey drive. It is also protective of its owner and territory, thus making it a reliable watchdog. Supervision is needed when around strange dogs due to its confrontational nature that has been described as “terrier-like.” The Alopekis is an excellent companion that is happy by nature, confident, devoted to its master, and is at home in an urban or rural setting. HistoryOriginally bred from primitive pariah dogs found in Greece during the proto-Hellenic era, and the Pelasgoi are credited with establishing its distinct physical type. In ancient Greece the dog was referred to as the “Alopecis” which can be translated into “small and fox-like,” and dogs of similar appearance have been depicted on ancient sculptures found in Greece. The Alopekis was traditionally employed as a hunting dog, most particularly the hunting of vermin, though it was also used as a guard dog, and a flock guardian/herder. It was once considered to be the same breed as the Meliteo Kinidio, and the two were grouped together under the name “Small Greek Domestic Dog.” It has since been changed and the two dogs are now recognized as separate breeds with different breed standards. There was a point of time, in ancient Greece, where both a hairless, and a longhaired version of the Alopekis existed, however both are considered to be extinct. |