Small Međimurje Dog
Also known as Međi · Mali Međimurski Pas · Štakoraš
Croatia, Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 28–33 cm
- Weight
- 6–10 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Alert
- Agile
- Loyal
- Watchful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Small Međimurje Dog, usually just called the Međi, is a short-legged, rectangular little farm dog from the far north-west of Croatia. It has a wedge-shaped head, pricked triangular ears and a harsh, straight coat that forms a slight mane on the neck. Although it is officially grouped with herding dogs, its real job has always been catching rats and keeping watch over the yard. It is very rare outside Croatia.
Size
- Size
- Small
- Height at shoulder
- 28–33 cm
- Adult weight
- 6–10 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 Small Međimurje Dogs 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
Međis are described as lively, alert and quick to learn, with a strong urge to chase rodents. They bark readily at strangers and stay reserved with people they do not know, yet are not meant to be aggressive towards people or other animals. With their own family they are loyal, affectionate and playful with children.
- Alert
- Agile
- Loyal
- Watchful
Food
For a typical 8 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 530 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 320 ml–480 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 dayA busy, agile little dog that enjoys a couple of brisk walks a day plus games that let it search, dig and chase. It is happiest with a garden or yard to patrol.
Grooming & shedding
The coarse, flat coat is easy to keep tidy with a weekly brush, a little more often when it is moulting.
Health
Because the breed has such a strong ratting instinct, small pets such as hamsters, rats or guinea pigs need careful management. Early socialisation helps keep its natural watchfulness from turning into constant barking. Little has been published on the breed's health, so choose a breeder involved in the Croatian breeding programme and keep up with routine vet checks.
The breed can be prone to
- No breed-specific health problems are well documented
- Dental care is worth attention, as in most small dogs
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check before breeding
Not every Small Međimurje Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Dogs of this kind have been kept on farms in the Međimurje region for well over a century, and local tradition held that a puppy earned its place by catching a rat flushed from a cellar or barn. As rats became less of a problem the dogs began to blend into other populations, so local enthusiasts set up a breeders' section in Donja Dubrava in 2003 to register typical dogs. The Croatian Kennel Club accepted the Međi as its seventh native breed at the end of 2010, and a genetic study published in 2019 supported its status as a distinct population.
- Country of origin
- Croatia
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Croatian Kennel Club and several other national clubs, including those of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Netherlands, Finland and the Czech Republic; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Small Međimurje Dog 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.
Small Međimurje Dog FAQ
How big does a Small Međimurje Dog get?
Adult Small Međimurje Dogs typically stand about 28–33 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 6–10 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Small Međimurje Dogs 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 Small Međimurje Dog 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 Small Međimurje Dog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Small Međimurje Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Small Međimurje Dogs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Small Međimurje Dogs 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 Small Međimurje Dog live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Small Međimurje Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to no breed-specific health problems are well documented, dental care is worth attention, as in most small dogs. Not every Small Međimurje Dog 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.