Alopekis
Also known as Alepouditsa · Alepudoskylo
Greece, Landraces and village dogs
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 20–32 cm
- Weight
- 3.5–7.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Friendly
- Alert
- Hardy
- Loyal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Alopekis is a small, fox-like Greek farm dog with prick ears, a curled or sickle tail and a weatherproof double coat. It has served as ratter, watchdog, small-game hunter and even herder around rural villages, especially in northern Greece. It is a critically endangered landrace with an unknown population.
Size
- Size
- Small
- Height at shoulder
- 20–32 cm
- Adult weight
- 3.5–7.5 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Alopekiss live 12–15 years. Like other small dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 9, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Alopekis are friendly, expressive and loyal to their people, while staying alert and protective of the household and farm animals. They are usually good with children and keen hunters of rodents.
- Friendly
- Alert
- Hardy
- Loyal
Food
For a typical 5.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 400 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 220 ml–330 ml
- a day, from all sources
- Small dogs burn energy quickly — two or three measured meals a day suit most adults, and toy breeds shouldn't go long without food.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayDespite their small size they have great stamina and enjoy long walks and active games. They adapt to town or country life if given enough to do.
Grooming & shedding
The coat can be smooth, rough or wiry; all types are easy care and need a weekly brush. These dogs tend to keep themselves very clean.
Health
Keep small pets such as rodents well away from this natural ratter. Early socialisation and gentle training suit its sensitive, people-oriented nature. Mass neutering of strays has cut its numbers, and very few are found outside Greece.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
- Patella examination
Not every Alopekis is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Small prick-eared dogs appear on Neolithic pottery found in Thessaly and in Bronze Age finds near Rafina, and classical writers including Xenophon and Aristotle mention the alopekis, which they wrongly believed came from mating dogs with foxes. The type survived for millennia as a village dog before declining sharply in modern times, prompting Greek enthusiasts to start preservation work.
- Country of origin
- Greece
- Type
- Landraces and village dogs
- Recognition
- Supported by Greek preservation groups; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Alopekis right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Alopekis FAQ
How big does a Alopekis get?
Adult Alopekiss typically stand about 20–32 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 3.5–7.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Alopekiss live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Alopekis need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Alopekis need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Alopekiss easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Alopekiss shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Alopekiss good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Alopekis live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Alopekiss have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published. Not every Alopekis is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.