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Fun Facts About Adorable Little Mi-Ki Puppies

By Marla Mills


Mi-Ki Puppies are intelligent, calm, sweet, adaptable, and affectionate. This is a great pet for anyone who wants a toy sized dog. They're great with kids and other pets. They're activity level is moderate. Combine this with their small size and you have a companion suitable for elderly and the handicapped. They're also a great family dog as long as children are old enough to not accidentally hurt this tiny creature. They're easily trained to use a litter box, making this little dog an excellent choice for apartment and condo dwellers.

They're not intimidated by noise or afraid of changing scenery. Mi-Ki puppies are a wonderful pet for families who wish to travel with their pets. There's room in the RV for this little fellow. They love car rides. Train ahead of time to relax in a carrier and they will be calm and quiet travelers on the plane ride.

Despite it's recent appearance in the 1980's, the origins of this breed are somewhat mysterious. Maureen Westburg of Milwaukee, Wisconsin is generally given credit as the developer of the breed, but she didn't keep detailed records. It's believed to be a descendant of the Papillon, Maltese, and Japanese Chin. There may also be some mixing with the Shih Tzu and/or the Yorkshire Terrier.

Expect to enjoy this delightful little companion for up to 16 years. This is a healthy breed with no significant genetic issues. Ask for OFA certification to avoid unexpected problems with patella luxation (knee cap slips out of position). Short muzzled dogs sometimes develop respiratory problems in their old age. Keeping the muzzle shaved and clean, and keeping their teeth clean reduces the incidence of respiratory problems.

They can weigh up to 10 pounds, but 4-7 pounds is preferred. They have a short muzzle, large round eyes, and feathered ears. Ears can be erect or drooped. The medium length plumed tail is carried over the back. This cute little canine can have a long or smooth coat of any color. Most, but not all, change color at the 1 year mark, and again at 2 years.

This relatively new breed does not yet have official recognition from the American Kennel Club. They have been recognized by the States Kennel Club since 1995. Several organizations are dedicated to development and recognition of breed status. The International Mi-Ki Registry performs DNA testing and has strict breeding standards for their members. The Mi-Ki Breeders USA is both a club and a breed registry. Other significant organizations include the Mi-Ki Club of America, the Mi-Ki Association, Continental Mi-Ki Association, and the American Mi-Ki Club.

Distinct and very endearing traits of Mi-Ki puppies are this little guys ability to climb like its ancestor the Japanese Chin. It also has cat like mannerisms as it pounces and chases toys. These little dogs love to curl up for a nap on a window ledge, and will even groom themselves with their tongues. When excited the ears swing out like wings.

Don't confuse the Mi-Ki with designer dogs, and beware of designer dogs inaccurately advertised as Mi-Ki puppies. Designer dogs have parents of 2 different breeds. A true Mi-Ki will be the result of at least 8 generations of Mi-Ki to Mi-Ki breeding. DNA testing can identify a purebred from a mixed breed. A purebred will be registered with a Mi-Ki registry, not a mixed breed or generic registry.




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