One of the big reasons Mi-ki dogs have proved popular with parents is that they’re low shedding and widely considered to be hypoallergenic (as much as any dog breed can be hypoallergenic). There are other breeds thought to be hypoallergenic too. Not only is this great news for those who suffer from pet fur allergies, but it also means a Mi-ki doesn’t shed very much.
Having said that, it’s still good practice to brush their hair, as this can prevent matting — fortunately, they usually enjoy this attention. Bathing is okay to do infrequently, but be sure to use a mild dog shampoo that won’t strip the coat’s natural oils.
As well as this, parents will need to find time for teeth brushing, nail clipping and ear cleaning to prevent the risk of infections.
Although the Miki dog breed is certainly small, you’ll wonder where they get all their energy from as they race about the house — or apartment, for that matter. Unlike other breeds, a Mi-ki doesn’t need a large backyard as even a modestly sized living room is big enough for them to wear themselves out.
They still need to be walked a bit, but seven miles a week should suffice. There will be occasions when they get tired mid-exercise, but their diminutive frame means they can be lifted up and carried home.
Mi-ki Health Risks
Although the Mi-ki as a distinct breed is in its infancy, the early signs suggest that they’re less affected by genetic disorders common in purebred dogs.
This might be the scientific concept of hybrid vigor in action, but it could also be too premature for patterns of disease to have fully emerged in the breed, especially as the number of Mi-kis in the world is relatively small.
There are some health issues for pet parents to watch out for, however, including:
Brachycephalic Syndrome
One common health complication is a legacy of the tendency for some Miki dogs to be born with a short muzzle, which can lead to Brachycephalic Syndrome.
This happens when a dog’s airways are restricted due to their facial anatomy and is more common in dogs with compressed faces (think Pugs and French Bulldogs). The main symptoms are loud and labored breathing, along with overheating and difficulty when it comes to eating.
If your Mi-ki is affected by this, a vet can try to alleviate the worst symptoms with surgery, but this might not always be possible. Instead, parents can look to make lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, less exercise or walking at cooler parts of the day.
Dental problems
There also seems to be a higher incidence of periodontal, or dental, disease within the Mi-ki community. The same is true of a lot of toy breeds. Parents can play a role in reducing the risk by brushing their dog’s teeth several times a week, as well as arranging regular check-ups with the vet.
Patellar Luxation
Another affliction to which toy breeds are predisposed is Patellar Luxation. This occurs when the kneecap regularly dislocates while the dog is walking or running, leading to limping and pain. Often, this is an inherited condition, but it can also be the result of trauma.
As a problem that affects many breeds, vets are usually well-equipped to deal with this issue. Surgery is the most common treatment option, while medication can be used to deal with the discomfort and inflammation.
Although the Mi-ki appears to be a healthy canine variety, parents need to stay on top of their care needs — a wellness plan includes testing, annual shots and grooming sessions.
What to feed a Mi-ki
As a toy breed, the Mi-ki should be given dog food designed for smaller canines. Not only will the nutritional levels be catered to their needs, but kibble in dry recipes will be a suitable size for their tiny mouths.
It has been noted that Mi-ki dogs can occasionally be fussy when it comes to food, but this pickiness can often be overcome with a little variety and even games in which they have to find the food.
We won’t lie, here are a lot of dog foods on the market. Thankfully, our partner Dog Food Advisor has done the hard work of sifting through all the options and putting together a list of the very best available for small breeds, such as the Mi-ki.
