By Avatar photoShiloh Nevada Last updated: 18th October 2022

Miki Dog

By

Avatar photo Shiloh Nevada
Last updated: 18th October 2022

The Miki Dog is relatively a new breed of toy dogs that have been developed only in the 1980s, using different breeds. These little-size dogs mostly have an apple-domed head, with large dark eyes and nose, and a characteristic stop. The mini Miki dog has erect feather ears (though sometimes cropped) that are quite movable. The body of the dog is somewhat elongated with a straight, leveled backline, that stands upon four hare-like feet. With their little size and gentle nature, Mikis usually make great condo or apartment dogs.

Miki Dog Pictures

Quick Information/Description

Also calledMi-ki, Mi Ki
CoatAvailable in two types: smooth coat and long coat
ColorsWhite, brown, black, black and tan, tricolor
Breed GroupToy dog, companion dog, watchdog, therapy dog
Lifespan13 to 14 years
Weight5-10 pounds
Height (size)Small; 10-12 inches
SheddingMinimal
TemperamentAffectionate, intelligent, alert, playful, protective, social
BarkingRare
HypoallergenicYes
Litter Size1-4
Good with ChildrenYes
Good with other PetsYes
Country of OriginUSA
Competitive RegistrationMCOA, IMR, MBUSA, CMA, R Inc., APRI, DRA

Video: Miki Dog Puppies


History

The exact history of the development of the Miki dog is still shrouded in mystery. However, this breed was introduced in North America in the late 1980’s. It is said to have been developed by the people. However, opinions of some researchers in this regard do vary.

DNA test reveals that, the Mi-Ki dog share common ancestry with quite a few Asian breeds, preponderantly, the Maltese, the Pekingese, and the Shih Tzu. Other breeds like the Papillon, the Yorkie and the Pomeranian have also been shown to have contributed in smaller percentages. Some people also call Miki as an ‘American-made purebred’.

Temperament and Behavior

While discussing the temperament of the Miki dog, the first thing that comes to mind is its adaptability. These dogs are extremely affectionate, as also alert at the same time.  Thus, they are ideal for the disabled and even the elderly people that can make good therapy dogs.

Though they are alert, but they are quiet and calm, and would not bark for no reason, but mostly, if only feel threatened. Although they yodel at times in joy, or would make a kind of joyful twittering. They have a high degree of intelligence that would easily excel in the obedience ring. This dog is ready to learn what you teach them, and would grow up to a good service dog.

Like cats, they are social by nature with an even temperament, as also love children, spending playful moments with them, prancing upon toys and play objects. The mikis are even comfortable with other pets, including cats. Some female mikis have been witnessed to be taking care of kittens like mothers. They are non-aggressive, but rather friendly with strangers, and would get along well with them.

Care

Exercise

The miki dog needs a daily walk. Take it out regularly, especially to help release its energy. They are active by nature and would play all day in a small house or apartment (or even get used to their kennels). But, allowing them to play openly in an enclosed area, if available, is also good for their mental happiness.

Grooming

Brush your miki dog at least once a week. This is to get rid of any possible dust particles they might catch in between their hairs while playing restlessly all day, as also to retain the usual smoothness. The short muzzle of the miki dog is prone to get them respiratory issues. So, do keep an eye. Also, weekly cleaning of their teeth is advisable for keeping them healthy. You can also shave their face and feet to help them stay clean and germ-free, since they are prone to grow long hairs in between their toes.

Health Problems

Mi-Ki is a very healthy breed with no known breed-specific health issues. However, as mentioned, respiratory disorders might pester it at times. Also, do not ignore keeping an eye on other common dog diseases and problems.

Training

Training the intelligent miki dog is easy. The best time to begin training your miki puppy when it is three months old. They are eager to please their masters. Teach the little one to come when it is asked to, or stay, when it is told to. Give them lots of obedience and success rewards, and supply them with lots of encouragement.

Diet/Feeding

Dry food, over raw food, is better for the playful miki dog, since it needs almost a constant supply of glucose, especially the puppies. Ready kibbles are a good supply of glucose, since they might consume this at any point of time, if supplied. Glucose deficiency often leads the puppy to ‘crash’. Raw meat or canned food is certainly a good idea, though, since it is the ultimate source of energy for most canines and dog breeds in the longer run. However, do not consider the quantity of your miki’s food with respect to the weight of your dog, but rather, on its daily level of exercise and activity. Also, remember that, an underweight or an obese miki might easily bring in much health problems later.

Interesting Facts

  • Although the Mi ki dogs often have a domed head, the International Mi-Ki Registry’s Mi-Ki heads are rounded, but not domed.
  • Their eyes and the nose are large and mostly dark, although blue, brown, or ruby are also acceptable by the International Mi-Ki Registry, provided, the coats are of the same colors.
  • The International Mi-Ki Registry considers mikis with all four feet shaved.
  • Record says that, a Mi-Ki dog has raised an entire litter of abandoned kittens.

37 responses to “Miki Dog”

  1. JANET LUBECK says:

    I live in Utah and would like to find a breeder close by. I am looking for the very smallest mi-ki I can find.

    • clarence dodd says:

      there is a breeder in Seattle and she wil deliver the Miki – We have (2) and think they are adorable — get (2) they are a riot to watch play

  2. Eileen Rearivk says:

    Are there any miki breeders in Texas?

  3. Laurel says:

    I have a Mi Ki 7 yr old and he is protective ..loyal..quite and cute as a babys bottom.

    My next dog will be the same. I live in olympia wash area as well and my breeder loves his dogs. He retires them after 4 yrs.

    I would like us Olympians to get together for play dates. Email me. Laurel_strong@yahoo.com

  4. Carrie bancker says:

    I live in mo. How can I buy one of these pup?

  5. Chris masse says:

    Are There Any Miki Breeders in Connecticut?

  6. Neil Milstein says:

    I have had my miki for almost 5 years. Zev is a wonderful dog. He grew up with my border collies. He thinks he is a border collie. He is very intelligent. He loves everybody. I had no problem with him in house breaking or training. He loves watching television and plays with our cats. I am a large animal vet. We breed horses and Catahoula leopard dogs. Zev acts like an alpha male. He has little fear of larger dogs. My wife calls him barnacle. He never leaves my side. I know of a few breeders in MD and in North Carolina. These are wonderful little dogs and make great pets. We can’t imagine not having Zev as part of our family.

  7. Mary Lewis says:

    Are there any breeder’s in Southern Idaho?

  8. Eilene says:

    I’m getting my MiKi a smooth coat in January. I’m very excited! She’s 6 weeks old now, but getting a little nervous from what some you wrote! If your still reading this please give me some hints. I thought this was supposed to be a calm, intellegent breed, which is why I’m getting the little girl I am, is this true?

    • Eilene says:

      I have my MiKi for just over 1 week, she is 10 weeks old now. I am having a difficult time with her. She is a smooth coat, she is adorable, but she eats her poop, bites fingers and toes. She uses the pad most of the time for the pee, but never for poo, even though I move her onto it, but have to close the pen door quickly and remove her, because all she wants to do is eat it even though I’m offering her a treat. After having her home for 1 1/2 weeks I’m thinking of asking the help of a trainer? Any suggestions?

      • Penny says:

        @Eilene..Your’s is the first negative comment about mi-kis I’ve come across. Have you ever had a such a young puppy? The behaviors you describe are normal for very young pups. When she nips @ your fingers and toes, she’s only playing the way she did w her litter mates. It’s definitely not an indication of future violent behavior. She’ll outgrow it. Expect chewed furniture, shoes, anything she can find until she stops teething even though she has tons of teething toys. It takes @ least 6 – 12 mo to totally house train a pup. When she poos, deligently keep putting her on the pad. If she tries to run, hold her there for a few seconds and tell her to go here. Also give her lots of praise when she poos on her pad. They love your tone and she’ll start to associate it w the pad. When she goes on the floor, in a firm voice tell her no and bad dog, put her in her pen for a minute to show your disapproval. It’s not that unusual for puppies to eat their or another dog’s bm. My Maltese pup did this for about 3 mos and the vet assured me it was normal. All I could do was again discourage the behavior until she grew out of it. She also said there was something to put in food to discourage this but I chose not to go this route. Ask your vet for more info. PetSmart has good puppy training classes. Please don’t get discouraged enough to put her in a shelter. I’ve had 3 puppies at once, a biscon, shizsu, and chihuahua and survived puppyhood intact.

      • Jessie says:

        Hi Eilene,
        The behavior you are describing is very normal behavior for a puppy. Its all about the positive reinforcement. Our Miki kept missing the pad and following the cat around like he was a pez dispenser for his poo. 🙂 Letting my dog know that I didn’t condone that behavior with a firm “no” and then rewarding when he did the correct behaviors have made him an excellent little dog. He now knows that when he does something bad, it is bad. If we have a slip up, he is already pouting when I find out and the issues have become almost non existent. He was just a baby, doing what all babies do, which is be a gross little cutie pie. lol! Our Miki is easily the best dog we have ever had.
        Also, I would definitely encourage a trainer if that helps you to train both puppy and parent!

  9. Sebastian says:

    Like Barb my Miki bites and cowers away when people reach down. She’ll be excited to see people but once they start to go to pet her she cowers away. If you want to train this breed, forget it. Pretty much the dumbest dog I’ve had. Cute yeah, but it’ll excrement everywhere and even when you train it it’ll still go wherever it wants. I take it for walks, socialize it etc.. just not a smart breed at all. Also good luck with any commands… Unless you have food… It’s useless. Honestly, I’d steer clear of this dog. It’s cute but outside of that it’s a headache and stress full. I’m not sure where the intelligent part comes into play but I don’t see it. Really, you’re buying a really expensive cat. I wouldn’t suggest this dog for someone on dissabillity since it’ll be way too expensive and needy. Anyways that’s my experience.

    • Debbie Anderson says:

      My MiKi’s are very smart and have never gone on the floor even when they were puppies in the winter months they used a grass mat. They know many tricks and my oldest (4years) has his therapy papers and is super good with people specially the elderly. I can take him to a nursing home and he Loves everyone, no cowarding from anyone. Love to sit on their laps and gives lots of kisses. My little female only 2.2 lbs. is still a little shy as she is only 9 months old. They are very,very,very smart dogs. It must be the way you raised yours or a very different blood line. This breed is very well known for therapy dogs for older people and kids with disabilities. You are giving the breed a bad name by not taking the understanding and caring to train yours properly. I would recommend a MKi to anyone, old or family pet.

      • Grace Lundeen says:

        I love your response to MiKis are not smart and hard to train. I saw a local rescue had a 4 yo MIKI who had been rescued from a puppy mill where she has been constantly bred. She was in terrible shape but was treated locally and spayed.
        She had had an eye infection and had to have her rt eye removed. She was still adorable in her photos and I fell in love with her. I have a 10 yo half shih tzu that loves all dogs and people and I think Peanut will love it with us. It may be difficult at first but I plan to love her so much she will fit right into our life. Thank you for stating the good side of Mi-Ki dogs.

  10. Suzanne says:

    Also meant to add….no rawhide or rawhide ingredients in the chews. Had an episode where someone thought they bought an all natural chew, gave it to my pup who ate away at it. Turned out it swelled in his stomach and blocked him. Luckily it did move along rather slowly and a day at the vet with barium & xrays to make sure it was moving along.

  11. Elizabeth says:

    Both of my Mi-Ki brothers- 6 months- are big barkers… one of the reasons we went with this breed was because they supposedly don’t bark much. What can we do-we live in an apartment…. tried pet corrector and one dog sort of pays attention-the other- it has no effect.

    • Mia says:

      Hi Elizabeth, I think dogs bark for many reasons and it helps when you identify the root cause(s) so you can address their behavior appropriately. I used to think what would be best for my dogs from “human” perspective but I realized that is not fair to my dogs. So I started studying THEIR basic needs and fulfilling them. I learned most important need is to walk them every day, morning and evening. Then to discipline them by setting rules and boundaries such as I enter/exit the door first, make them work for food (feed them after each walk), invite them to join on the couch or bed instead of them jumping up without my permission. What I’m trying to say is dogs need a leader. Mommy dogs teach their babies calmly and assertively. Perhaps your furbabies are barking or “asking” you to step up and give them direction and guidance. Perhaps they are confused and frustrated who should be leading the pack and competing for the alpha position. I have a gut feeling their barking should subside when they clearly understand who is the leader. In fact, every person in household should be the pack leader to dogs. Finally affection comes after first two needs have been met. Sorry for the lengthy comment. I wish you the best and enjoy your most adorable Mi-Ki babies.

    • FLORIDA 5-STAR DOG TRAINING says:

      Hello..
      Try ultrasonic bark control.. works wonderfully on small dogs. No Shock!

  12. Sherrie Boutwell says:

    I have a 14 1/2 yr old Shitzupom. He’s a healthy 10 lbs. I recently saw a MiKi & fell in love. I love love love designer dogs. Their temperament & uniqueness is what I want. I live in Olympia. Washington & will be looking for a MiKi.

    • Cher says:

      My breeder is fantastic.
      She lives in oak harbout WA and will deliver or meet you with your puppy
      Her name is Barbara
      Here is her website: http://www.belleamiemi-kis.com
      My baby came to me potty trained to go on a pee pad! She is smart, affectionate, loving, happy and fun!

      • Dave says:

        That is the breeder we used also. She is so helpful and friendly. We have had Sophee only four days but she seems very at home. She is spunky and loving. So far so good.

      • Jack says:

        Hi Cher,
        We got our sweet MiKi from Barbara as well. Excellent, well informed, compassionate breeder. We love our 1 yr old sweet MiKi and are sold on this breed. She was very easy to train and went on the pee pad for the first 6 months. As her bladder developed we slowly started moving the pee pad closer to the back door, then to just outside the door and then we removed the pad. She was trained to ask to go outside by 9 months. You do have to remember they are small dogs so after they eat and every 2 1/2-3 hours they are going to have to go outside to urinate or have a BM.
        Thanks
        Jack

    • Elly Hurst says:

      I just got a Mi-Ki 9 year old that a woman had before she died. He is a love but only to women. Very afraid of men. Have had him for about 5 weeks now and he still won’t go outside or take a treat from my husband. He is definitely a 1 woman dog. I wonder if he may have been abused by a male before? Maybe he’s a rescue dog. Wish I knew. I, too live in Olympia so if you don’t find a Mi=Ki dog, feel free to e=mail me and maybe you’d like to visit with him?

    • Joy says:

      There is a breeder in your area call Belle amie Mi-Kis—-I just got one from here and she is great. Check the web sight and see the puppies

  13. Barb says:

    I am having difficulty with my 4 month old Miki biting our hands and she doesn’t like to come when called. She runs away when we bend over to pick her up. She is highly active and not very loving. Has anyone else seen this behavior? We do have a play yard that she is confined in when we are not available to watch her. We try to give her a couple of hours of exercise with playing fetch 2 to 3 times a day.

    • Kaoru says:

      I have two Mikis, one is a year old, and the other is two years old. The breeder I use trained my girls not to bite, so I don’t have a problem with that. However, neither dog is very smart, so it takes immense patience to train them anything. I believe firmly that a dog should know “Come” and “Sit,” both of which took a long time to teach. And that was with the breeder working on “Come” before I took the girls home! (Sit I had to work on from scratch.)

      I’ve found that they respond best to positive reinforcement. Punishment just doesn’t stick at all, so don’t even go there.

      As for the running away, my girls did that too. It’s a game. If you chase after her, you’re only feeding into the game. Either pretend indifference when she runs away, or get a treat to entice her to come to you. When she starts coming toward you, give the “Come” command and then reward her with the treat when she comes all of the way.

      If she’s anything like my girls, you’ll be amazed how quickly she outgrows the hyper puppy stage. Even my one-year-old pup acts surprisingly mature.

      I’m not sure if the smooth coat and the long coat are supposed to have different personalities, but my smooth coat acts like a cat and is only affectionate to me. She won’t let anyone else pet her. If anyone else tries, she’ll get up and walk away. My long coat loves absolutely everyone. She’ll bounce from person to person, trying to make sure everyone in the room know she loves them. That’s just a personality thing–part of what makes them special and unique.

      Sorry this turned out so long. I hope it helps some.

      • Barb says:

        Thank you, yes your reply was encouraging. We are working on the “come” and stay commands. Good to know it isn’t just our dog. Our dog is also very nervous and fearful of going to any location in the house she is not familiar with, and she spend a HUGE amount of time “combing” the floor over and over again and pulling carpet fibers out. I am hopeful that is a puppy stage.

        • Suzanne says:

          For biting, have something that is okay to chew on (antler, natural dog chew, toy chews) near by when she tries to bite yours hands, tell her no bite and give her the chew item instead. I also have to entice to come and treat & praise when they do come (no matter how long it takes but it does get better) Positive reinforcement is key – even when they’re not up to speed with the command. 🙂
          Try to make time to socialize your pup with other dogs and people. They do get lonely and she may be seeking your attention by acting out. If you could have a trusted neighbor or family walk her during the day, Dog parks, local doggie daycare…..I take my two Mi-Ki male pups (6 & 8 months, diffe- rent breeders) to doggie daycare at least once or twice a week for at least 6 hours. They socialize, play and are dead tired when I pick them up. Hope this helps, Good luck and hang in there.

      • Pam says:

        I have two baby girls; one is three months-old and the other one is six months-old. They very seldom come when they are called. I am having great difficultly potty training them. I love my two girls so very much I wish they would obey.

  14. Loriellen Nichols says:

    I rescued a 3 yeat old Mi Ki
    Her mame is Daisy Mae. She is so sweet and veru adaptable. However, I’m having a hard time with house training. Any ideas??

    • Sergey Uhanov (Certified Veterinarian) admin says:

      Hi Loriellen,
      You won’t be having a hard time housetraining your 3-year-old Daisy Mae if you stick to the following training regimen:
      • Start training your pet by introducing her to a crate. Keep the crate in the family room or any other place where there is a constant activity. Put a washable pad, and some chew toys in the crate. Toss some treats inside the crate, as this will lure her to go into it and explore the new object.
      • You may place her food dish near the crate and once she is comfortable eating, place the food dish inside. Close the door when she ultimately enters into the crate. Open it once she is done eating. Then gradually increase the amount of time that you keep her crate door closed.
      • Set a consistent feeding and pottying schedule. Feed Daisy no more than twice daily, and take her out to eliminate at least six times regularly, preferably in the morning, after feeding, after play, and before bedtime.
      • Speak the same words to signal her that it is time to potty. Take her out on a leash through the same door and make sure that you lead her to the same place. Reward her with praises and treats if she does the job correctly.

  15. ron cooper says:

    are there any miki breeders in california?

  16. Debbie McClane says:

    Hello,

    Are there any MiKi rescue sites around? I am not finding them online if any. I have two little girl MiKi’s and they are 7 and 8 years old. I am totally in love with this breed!

    Thank you,
    Debbie

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