Thursday, September 26, 2013

Discover Charming And Adaptable 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.

These friendly little dogs aren't timid or anxious. They love new people, pets, sights, and sounds, making them a great traveling companion. They don't bark a lot so take them on the plane and to the hotel. Their small size makes Mi-Ki puppies a great choice for RV travelers.

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.

A unique trait is that most will change color around 1 year of age, and again at 2 years old, so choose your puppy for personality, not color. The breed standard says any coat color is acceptable. The coat can be long or smooth. The muzzle is short, eyes are large and round. Feathered ears can be drooped or erect. The tail is medium in length. They weigh up to 10 pounds, with 4-7 pounds being the preferred range.

The AKC does not recognize this breed, however, there are several clubs and registries with standards for the Mi-Ki. The Mi-Ki Club of America was founded in 1992, IMR in 1999, Mi-Ki Association in 2002, Continental Mi-Ki Association in 2002, Mi-Ki Breeders USA in 2003, and American Mi-Ki Club in 2008. The Mi-Ki Breeders USA is a club and registry. The International Mi-Ki Registry has a strict breeding program including DNA testing. The breed was recognized by the States Kennel Club in 1995. These organizations work to develop standards, promote the overall success and longevity of the breed, and advocate for recognition from the American Kennel 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.

Beware of breeders selling designer dogs, usually a 1st generation cross between a Papillon and a Maltese, and calling the offspring Mi-Ki puppies. A true Mi-Ki is a purebred, the offspring of 8 or more generations of Mi-Ki to Mi-Ki breeding. DNA testing can tell the difference. Also true purebreds will be registered with a Mi-Ki registry, not a generic canine registry.




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